Basics

Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast doesn't play exactly like every other FPS out there. As such, there may be a few things you need to take note of for when you're playing. Take a look at the pointers below to hone your general skills at the game.

GENERAL ATTACKING

Projectile Speed
For those of you that are quite familiar with shooting games, you usually click the button while aiming at whatever you want to die, and it'll fall over gasping for life. Things are a tad different in Jedi Outcast. Many weapons, especially basic laser weapons, will have projectiles that shoot out quite slowly from the barrel. If the enemy is at a small to far distance, hitting them will require them to stand still or good prediction of where they'll move next. You need to get used to the slower firing speed, first of all.

The slower speed of projectiles makes what you aim at harder to hit. Now we know why everyone always missed with the blasters in the Star Wars movies.

Rapid Fire and Slow Fire
When using a weapon with rapid fire, accuracy is not really an issue, as you have a bunch of shots flying about. However, shooting one projectile at a time at a slower rate of fire means that you want your shots to hit targets as often as possible.

Rapid Fire weapons or functions are generally much less accurate and sometimes weaker, but this is usually more than made up for by the number of shots you get in. If you have the ammo supply to be able to use more than you need, and don't need any special features (like zooming) use rapid fire weapons and functions in priority to slower firing methods.

Hitting Enemies
The easiest way to hit a target is if they're standing still and you're standing still. The problem is, this also makes it much easier for them to hit you. There are two solutions.

The first is to strike from a distance, and pay attention to the enemy's fire. Since many enemies use slow-moving projectiles (like lasers), try to watch their projectiles coming at you and move out of the way before they can hit you.

You can also try to learn how to target them while moving and/or while they're moving. It'll take some practice, and their movements may be unpredictable, but your skill at it will improve with practice. To make things easier, try using a rapid fire weapon while moving so that you have a better chance of at least some of your projectiles hitting the target.

The Right Tool for the Right Job
Each weapon has its own unique primary and secondary functions. Some are helpful in certain situations. For example, if you need good accuracy while going into a firefight, equip the Bryar Blaster Pistol. If you need to snipe an enemy from far away, use the Disruptor Rifle. Learn the abilities of each weapon and use the best choice when a situation comes up.

Lightsaber or Guns?
Once you have the ability to use the lightsaber, you may question whether it is best to use the lightsaber or normal guns in battles.

For long range attacking, hands-down you should use guns. The lightsaber Throw's range isn't comparable to the range of guns. If enemies are a little ways off, use guns.

For small groups of enemies close up, it's really your personal preference. If you're good with guns, use 'em. If you've tweaked your lightsaber skills, use it.

For large groups of enemies, use the lightsaber. This will allow you to block at least some of the fire with your lightsaber while you make your way around exterminating everything.

Out of Sight
Sometimes you'll be in an area where the objects and structures around you can partially block off your view of the enemy and their view of you. If they're at somewhat of a distance and/or stationary, you can use your surroundings to your advantage.

Slowly peek out from behind a corner, from underneath their platform, or whatever else is blocking you from them. If you don't move into an area where they can fire at you, you may be able to target them (sometimes only the feet, an arm, or the top of the head). In doing this, you can take your time in pulling off a shot, as you're in no danger.

Head Hits
Like every other FPS out there, hitting the enemy in the head with a shot will do the most damage. When using your weapons, try to aim at the head region.

GENERAL DEFENDING

Keep Moving
A target that is standing still is much easier to hit than one that's moving. This not only applies to enemies, but yourself as well. Don't give the opposition an easy shot at you - keep on the move. It's harder to move and fire at the same time, so you will probably be much less accurate until you can get used to it.

Reducing Your Hit Area
Kyle's body is a rather large target. You can reduce the total hit area the enemy has by hiding behind objects and corners. If part of your body is hidden from fire, you'll be that less likely to be hit.

Duck for Cover
Cover can also be used for quick attacks. Hide behind an object or corner, then jump and get a shot or two off at the enemy. Quickly duck back behind the object/corner while the enemy returns fire. When they stop, repeat the process. This method may take longer than straight-out charging them, but it's much safer.

Elevation
Attacking from above is more helpful than you'd initially think. The enemies will have a harder time hitting you, while you shouldn't be at any less of an advantage at firing at them.

Don't Charge Into Rooms
When you enter a new room, most of the time there will be a group of enemies waiting. Don't charge right in or you'll be any easy target. Initially, fire at the enemies from the doorway, where you'll have some cover.

Don't dawdle in the doorway too long, though, or you'll be pinned down in a confined area. When the enemy gets their act together, head into the room.

OTHER

Save Often
One of the most important things to remember to do in this game is to save frequently. Checkpoints are few and far between, so saving manually will help you through the game. Be especially sure to save after accomplishing a particularly difficult task or after not having saved for a while. If you suddenly die, you won't want to have to go through it again.

Set the Controls
If the default controls aren't to your like, modify them until they are. If you think it's too hard to reach your Force power keys, switch them somewhere else. If you use a particular action a lot, move it to where it'll be easier to hit. All in all, configure the controls so that you like them best.