Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The Elite Force Expansion Pack breathes new life into the original Star Trek: Voyager – Elite Force mechanics by introducing three fresh singleplayer experiences alongside two distinct multiplayer modes. The official 1.2 patch not only irons out lingering bugs but also restores the authentic voice of Seven of Nine, courtesy of Jeri Ryan. From the moment you launch into Virtual Voyager mode, you’ll feel like you’re stepping aboard the Intrepid-class starship, scanning corridors, peering into engineering compartments, and uncovering hidden collectibles that reward your curiosity.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

For solo players craving more than just shoot-’em-up encounters, the addition of the Captain Proton holo-series missions offers a delightful pulp-style diversion. These missions pay homage to classic 1930s sci-fi serials, complete with pixelated effects, over-the-top dialogue, and campy villains. In contrast, the standard singleplayer scenarios maintain the tension and tone of the original Elite Force campaign, integrating well-paced firefights with objective-driven exploration.

On the multiplayer front, the Expansion Pack introduces “Assimilation,” a co-op mode that pits Federation crew against relentless Borg hordes, and “Specialties,” a competitive mode emphasizing team roles and loadouts. Fans will appreciate the variety of new maps—some crafted by the community—that range from tight, close-quarters corridors in the shuttle bay to expansive views in the holodeck arena. With new skins reflecting familiar uniform variants, each match feels both fresh and steeped in Starfleet tradition.

Graphics

Though the core engine dates back to 2000, the Expansion Pack’s updated patch ensures stable performance and compatibility with modern systems. Subtle graphical enhancements—improved lighting effects in turbolifts, refined textures in the transporter rooms, and the occasional particle effect tweak—keep the visuals looking sharp without drastically altering the game’s original aesthetic. The result is a smooth, polished experience that remains true to the Voyager universe.

The Virtual Voyager mode stands out as a visual treat, allowing you to admire intricately rendered rooms from the mess hall to the engineering deck. Collectible items are cleverly placed in nooks and crannies, encouraging thorough exploration and adding replay value for completionists. Reflections on polished floors, the hum of console panels, and the ambient soundscape collectively immerse you in the starship environment.

Community-created maps in multiplayer not only diversify the gameplay but also showcase fan creativity in level design. From neon-lit holo-rooms to derelict Borg cubes, these maps often push the original engine’s limits, offering new vistas and strategic layouts. Even if some textures show their age, the variety in settings and thoughtfully designed layouts compensate, ensuring every firefight feels distinct.

Story

While the Expansion Pack isn’t a narrative sequel, it enriches the Elite Force storyline by building upon your role as an EMH-augmented security officer aboard the USS Voyager. The new singleplayer missions tie back to key series moments and introduce fresh sci-fi dilemmas that feel authentic to the Voyager ethos. You’ll negotiate with holographic NPCs, uncover Federation secrets, and even face off against renegade Maquis remnants.

The Captain Proton missions, although tongue-in-cheek, cleverly riff on classic sci-fi tropes. Dialogue is laden with cheesy one-liners and bombastic narration, making each mission a fun palate cleanser between more serious story beats. This variety ensures that the overall narrative remains engaging, whether you’re foiling a Borg plot or saving a distant colony from annihilation.

Crucially, the replacement of the stand-in voice actress for Seven of Nine with Jeri Ryan herself brings an air of authenticity that fans will immediately appreciate. Hearing the correct voice during mission briefings and cutscenes elevates immersion, forging a stronger connection to the Voyager crew. Moments of quiet banter in engineering or suspenseful radio checks in the turbolift now carry genuine emotional weight.

Overall Experience

Star Trek: Voyager – Elite Force Expansion Pack is a must-have for anyone who enjoyed the original game and yearns for more content set within the Voyager universe. The patch’s stability improvements and restored voice work demonstrate the developers’ commitment to quality, while the new modes and maps substantially increase replayability. Whether you’re exploring the starship at your own pace, blasting Borg drones in co-op, or outmaneuvering friends in competitive matches, there’s plenty to sink your phaser into.

Some aspects—like the aging engine and occasional texture pop-in—remind you of the game’s vintage, but these minor quirks are overshadowed by the breadth of content and fan-driven enhancements. Virtual Voyager mode in particular transforms the experience from a linear shooter into a leisurely walkthrough of a beloved starship, making it perfect for both action-oriented players and lore enthusiasts.

Ultimately, the Elite Force Expansion Pack offers an engaging package that balances nostalgia with modern playability. The infusion of official fixes, genuine voice acting, and abundant new content makes it a worthwhile investment for fans of Star Trek and classic first-person shooters alike. Set phasers to fun and prepare for a voyage you won’t soon forget.

Retro Replay Score

6.6/10