A new Star Wars title has landed, and it’s already sparking debate. Star Wars: Beyond Victory launched to a lukewarm critical reception, holding a 54 on Metacritic — a score that’s disappointing for any major franchise, let alone Star Wars. Critics have found plenty to criticize, but players seem to be having a very different experience. At the time of writing, the game boasts a strong 4.2 out of 5 from users, which equates to an 82 on the Metacritic scale, suggesting that the fan response is far more enthusiastic.
A Niche Release for a Niche Platform
Developed by Industrial Light & Magic in collaboration with Lucasfilm, Beyond Victory is a mixed-reality experience built exclusively for Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets. This platform exclusivity greatly limits its potential audience — only around one million players even own the necessary hardware. That exclusivity is likely why you may not have heard much about the game until now.
The Game Modes
Star Wars: Beyond Victory offers three distinct ways to play:
Adventure Mode – Players step into the boots of Volo Bolus, an ambitious young pilot mentored by podracing icon Sebulba. This entirely original storyline delivers fresh Star Wars storytelling — though it’s non-canon.
Arcade Mode – A throwback to classic podracing, this mode transforms your physical space into a holotable stadium for fast-paced, top-down racing action.
Playset Mode – A creative sandbox where fans can craft their own Star Wars scenarios with digital characters, vehicles, and props at their disposal.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Currently one of the Meta Store’s best-sellers, Beyond Victory is earning praise from players for its innovative blend of augmented and virtual reality, varied gameplay styles, and polished presentation. Many also appreciate the nods to fan-favorite characters and familiar Star Wars locations that add a layer of nostalgia.
However, the game’s variety comes at a cost — depth. Each mode feels relatively thin in content, with limited replay value. The podracing, while visually appealing, doesn’t hold up against the best examples the franchise has delivered in the past. For many, the game’s biggest flaw is that it leaves you wanting more.
Final Thoughts
Star Wars: Beyond Victory is an ambitious experiment in mixed reality that delivers memorable moments for dedicated fans — especially those eager for something fresh from the Star Wars universe. Yet its narrowly targeted platform, shallow mode content, and modest critical reception mean it may remain more of a hidden gem than a mainstream blockbuster.
