While the gunplay is substandard and the runtime is short, the characters and atmosphere carry this game. There is a clear tenderness for the world of Star Wars; for example, the title theme is written in Mandalorian. However, Republic Commando also distinguishes itself from the source material by portraying the Clone Wars an a gritty fashion not unlike Apocalypse Now -- you'll most likely know if the game clicks with you before you're even given real control.