Tabletop Games Inspired by Star Wars Offer a Rebel Narrative Without Disney’s Influence
Two tabletop games, Going Rogue and Galactic, inspired by the Star Wars universe, allow players to engage in a rebellion against an oppressive regime, offering a narrative that diverges from Disney’s canonical version of the franchise. These games emphasize player agency in shaping a story of resistance and sacrifice, free from Disney’s control.
The games, described as ‘war among the stars’ role-playing games, place players in the roles of rebels, soldiers, spies, and criminals, or even individuals who simply pick up a blaster and decide ‘enough is enough.’ The game Going Rogue, in particular, was designed by a creator who has expressed frustrations with the original Star Wars canon, leading to its development as an alternative narrative that allows players to explore rebellion without Disney’s involvement.
According to its designer, Levine, who cited a deep affection for Star Wars, the game aims to address certain perceived flaws in the canon, including the depiction of Jedi as child-kidnapping, sexless acetics. The game is structured to provide players with a sense of guaranteed sacrifice and transformation, mirroring the emotional depth of dedicating one’s life to a cause. The narrative allows players to experience the impact of their actions on a larger scale, with the mechanics ensuring that their sacrifice is recognized and valued within the game’s universe.
The games are inspired by the films Rogue One and Andor, which depict the lives of rebel agents who give their lives for the cause. The developers of these games emphasize that their primary goal is to create a narrative that reflects the player’s own feelings about commitment and sacrifice, rather than to promote specific political ideologies. They aim to provide an emotional and philosophical exploration of rebellion, allowing players to engage with the theme of resistance in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
By creating these games, the designers hope to empower Star Wars fans to reclaim the narrative of the franchise, free from the constraints of Disney’s corporate influence. This initiative highlights the growing trend of fan-driven storytelling and the desire to shape popular culture in ways that align with individual values and perspectives. The games serve as a testament to the enduring popularity of Star Wars and the creative freedom that fans continue to seek in their engagement with the franchise.