L.B. Jeffries over at PopMatters takes an interesting look back at Tie Fighter in the light of our post 9/11 world.

The opening yellow text describes the destruction of the Death Star as an act by cowardly “Rebel terrorists.” In a grand speech to his people, the Emperor explains that they will bring peace and order to the galaxy. TIE Fighter was a brilliant game at the time of its release, but now its themes and gameplay have taken on a new meaning in the wake of 9/11. The game reveals how easy it is to slip into a mindset of blind loyalty, nationalism, and unquestioning service to a greater authority.

In addition to the political slant, Jeffries takes a good look at the way the Empire and the Rebels are differentiated in gameplay terms through their combat styles and ship capabilities.  It’s all enough to make me want to dig up my disks and pull out my joystick.  Sadly, the joystick is long gone, and playing with the keyboard just isn’t the same…