Star Wars Jedi: Survivor continues the story of Cal Kestis in a gripping, narrative-driven action-adventure game set in the Star Wars universe. As the sequel to Jedi: Fallen Order, it builds upon the original’s strengths with deeper exploration, refined combat, and a more mature tone. One of the key questions many players ask before diving into the game is about the availability of playable characters. Jedi Survivor is primarily a single-player experience with a heavy focus on storytelling, and character control plays a major role in immersing players in that journey. Understanding who you can control, how gameplay shifts depending on the character, and what roles each character plays in the storyline is essential for fans and newcomers alike.
Main Playable Character
Cal Kestis The Core Protagonist
Cal Kestis remains the central playable character throughout Jedi Survivor. As a former Padawan who survived Order 66, Cal has matured significantly since the events of Jedi: Fallen Order. Players once again step into his shoes to guide him through an expansive galaxy filled with danger, mystery, and moral conflict.
Throughout the game, players experience:
- Lightsaber combat across five different stances
- Force abilities including push, pull, slow, and mind trick
- Exploration of varied planets with puzzles and traversal mechanics
- Deep character development and emotional storytelling
Cal’s expanded abilities give players a more flexible and dynamic gameplay experience. His customizable combat stances allow for personal style choices, whether you prefer agile strikes or heavy, powerful attacks.
Companion Involvement
BD-1 Always By Your Side
Though not directly controllable, BD-1 plays a crucial support role throughout Jedi Survivor. This faithful droid companion aids in scanning, hacking, puzzle-solving, and healing. BD-1 also offers context-sensitive interactions and dialogue that deepen the connection between player and environment.
Players use BD-1 for tasks such as:
- Overriding security systems
- Accessing map details and exploration markers
- Dispensing stims during combat
- Scanning enemies for tactical data
While you can’t control BD-1 directly, his presence and functionality are tightly woven into the gameplay loop, making him feel like an extension of the player.
Bode Akuna Temporary Combat Partner
One of the new characters introduced in Jedi Survivor is Bode Akuna, a mercenary and father who becomes one of Cal’s closest allies. Although Bode is not a permanent playable character, there are brief moments in the story where you do engage in cooperative combat with him. These sequences, while limited, add diversity and richness to gameplay.
Bode can:
- Assist in coordinated attacks
- Be directed to focus on specific enemies
- Help solve environmental challenges
Despite his limited control, Bode’s segments offer a change of pace and strengthen narrative dynamics between characters.
Are There Other Playable Characters?
No Alternate Main Playables
Jedi Survivor is designed around Cal Kestis, both in gameplay and narrative. There are no alternate main playable characters in the way that some RPGs or open-world games offer character switching. This design choice supports the strong, character-driven storytelling that Respawn Entertainment is known for.
Players should not expect to control characters like Cere Junda, Merrin, or Greez Dritus directly during gameplay. These allies appear throughout the story, sometimes fighting alongside Cal or supporting from the sidelines, but they are not given dedicated playable sections.
Cutscene and Flashback Perspectives
In certain cinematic sequences or flashbacks, the game briefly shifts perspective, but this does not translate into freeform gameplay. These moments are used for storytelling impact and do not feature traditional control schemes. While players may momentarily view the world from another angle, full interaction is not granted.
Gameplay Variation Through Combat Styles
Five Lightsaber Stances
Although players are restricted to one main playable character, Cal’s lightsaber stances dramatically alter how he feels to play. These include:
- Single Blade Balanced and familiar
- Double-Bladed Excellent for crowd control
- Duel Wield High-speed, aggressive strikes
- Crossguard Slow but devastatingly powerful
- Blaster Combines ranged and melee combat
Each stance can be unlocked and upgraded with skill points, offering layers of complexity and encouraging experimentation. While the character remains the same, these variations keep gameplay fresh and highly customizable.
Customization as an Extension of Identity
Cosmetics and Personalization
Even though you control only Cal, Jedi Survivor offers deep customization options that let players tailor his look and gear. From hairstyles and beards to jackets and pants, cosmetic choices are abundant. Lightsaber parts and colors, BD-1 skins, and blaster designs add to the freedom of expression.
This level of detail helps mitigate the need for multiple playable characters, as players are free to shape Cal’s appearance and fighting style however they prefer. The game encourages identity building through consistent design rather than character switching.
Narrative Importance of a Single Hero
Storytelling Through Cal’s Journey
The developers made a deliberate choice to keep Cal Kestis as the sole protagonist to preserve narrative continuity. Jedi Survivor tells a deeply personal story about survival, trauma, and the role of a Jedi in a galaxy slipping into darkness. Splitting this journey across multiple characters would dilute its emotional focus.
By following one character throughout, the player forms a strong connection with Cal’s motivations, decisions, and relationships. This continuity is key to the immersive storytelling that defines Jedi Survivor.
Could Future Titles Expand Character Control?
Speculation on Future Games
While Jedi Survivor does not feature multiple playable characters, future entries in the franchise may explore new gameplay structures. Fans have speculated about the possibility of dual protagonists or expanded companion control in sequels. However, no official information has confirmed these features for future games.
If the story broadens to include new Jedi or resistance fighters, there could be opportunities for alternating perspectives. For now, the focus remains tightly locked on Cal and his journey.
Summary of Playable Character Dynamics
- Main Playable: Cal Kestis
- Support Role: BD-1 (not directly playable)
- Temporary Support: Bode Akuna (during certain sequences)
- No alternate main characters
Jedi Survivor thrives by delivering a concentrated character experience. It may lack multiple playables, but it compensates with deep customization, layered combat, and strong emotional storytelling. Players are invited to grow alongside Cal, facing every threat, challenge, and decision through his eyes.
Jedi Survivor focuses on a singular playable character Cal Kestis to maintain narrative integrity and gameplay cohesion. The game delivers depth not through multiple character choices, but through evolving combat, exploration mechanics, and meaningful relationships. For players seeking an immersive Star Wars experience with a tightly focused hero’s journey, Jedi Survivor offers exactly that.