Respawn’s Jedi series has been a huge success in the gaming industry, thanks to its exciting gameplay and an engaging storyline set in the Star Wars universe. However, there’s one constant element that ties both games together and elevates them to the next level, and that is the Mantis, the starship that you get to call your own, yet it’s not entirely yours.

The Mantis is more than just a cool spaceship; it’s a work of art. With its unique and weird design, it’s a perfect representation of the Star Wars universe’s aesthetics. The ship’s wing-like structure that pivots “upright” while in flight and rotates flat when landing is a sight to behold. Despite being a luxury yacht in its previous life, the Mantis is now a heavy and dense vehicle, featuring cables, pipes, and vents everywhere, making it look more like a bulk freighter than an Old Republic Roadster.

One of the best things about the Mantis is the way it ties the games together. Unlike other games, where you jump from one level to another with nothing but a loading screen in between, moving between levels in the Jedi series is a whole process. At the conclusion of a stage, you end up at your ship, where you can walk onboard, do some stuff, check out some relics and chat to your friends. Then, you walk up to the ship’s map, select where you want to go, and the ship will take off in real-time, leaving the completed world behind, zooming into hyperspace. When you sit down in the co-pilot’s chair, the ship exits lightspeed, and the new planet fills the windows, signaling the start of your next adventure.

The simple act of turning the end/beginning of a level into a whole thing, rather than just a cutscene, transforms the game. You feel like you’re on an adventure, one that’s truly galactic in scale. This experience is reminiscent of other games like Elite, Mass Effect, and Privateer, where you have a central focal point for your journeys that serves as everything from a transport to a conversational hub.

It’s interesting to note that the Mantis plays a significant role in the game’s story, character, and action, making it an essential element of the game. Without it, the Jedi series wouldn’t be the same, as so much of the game’s action and adventure revolve around it. The Mantis is a symbol of adventure, bringing excitement, wonder, and a sense of discovery to the game. It’s this experience that has made the Jedi series a success, as it resonates with gamers who want to immerse themselves in a universe that’s vast, beautiful, and mysterious.

The Mantis is an essential element that has helped the Jedi series stand out in the gaming industry. Its design, functionality, and significance to the game’s story, character, and action make it an unforgettable experience that elevates the game to new heights. The Mantis is not just a ship; it’s a symbol of adventure, bringing to life the excitement, wonder, and magic of the Star Wars universe.

The Mantis also serves as a visual representation of the game’s pacing. It’s not just a means of getting from point A to point B; it’s a way to break up the action and give players a chance to catch their breath. The ship offers a brief respite from the often intense combat, allowing players to reflect on what just happened, interact with their companions, and plan their next move.

Furthermore, the Mantis provides a sense of progression and accomplishment. As players collect upgrades for the ship, such as a new engine or a stronger hull, it becomes a more capable vessel, able to take on tougher challenges and explore new areas. This sense of growth and development is a core part of the game’s design, and the Mantis serves as a tangible representation of that progress.

The Mantis is an integral part of Respawn’s Jedi series. It’s not just a cool ship; it’s a central hub for the game’s story, characters, and progression. It ties everything together, giving players a sense of purpose and direction, and providing a welcome break from the game’s often intense action. Whether you’re a Star Wars fan or not, it’s hard not to appreciate the Mantis and the role it plays in making Respawn’s Jedi games so enjoyable.