Raven releases Jedi Outcast source code after LucasArts closure

Developer Raven Software has released the source code to 2002's Star Wars Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast and its 2003 sequel Jedi Academy in response to LucasArts' closure.

The two games have been released as a thank you to the game's "persistently loyal fanbase."

"Raven is sad to hear about the closing of LucasArts today, we respected them and enjoyed working with them over the years," said Raven to Kotaku Australia in a statement.

"We wish the best for all the talented people who were let go and hope they find good work in studios in the industry.

"We loved and appreciated the experience of getting to make Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast and Jedi Academy for LucasArts. As a gift to the persistently loyal fanbase for our Jedi games and in memory of LucasArts, we are releasing the source code for both games for people to enjoy and play with."

No documentation or support is being provided alongside the source code.

Disney last night closed LucasArts after acquiring the company in October 2012. "After evaluating our position in the games market, we've decided to shift LucasArts from an internal development to a licensing model, minimizing the company's risk while achieving a broader portfolio of quality Star Wars games," said Disney in a statement.

In-development titles Star Wars: 1313 and Star Wars: First Assault were also reportedly cancelled, although there might be a glimmer of hope for Star Wars: 1313 as Disney is looking at bringing the game to market through an external publisher.

LucasArts' storied history saw the studio help define the adventure genre in the 90s, publishing titles like The Secret of Monkey Island, Full Throttle, Day of the Tentacle, and Grim Fandango.