Deep within the treacherous terrain of Koboh lies one of the most complex and intriguing locations in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor the Observatory Understructure. This hidden area challenges players not only with its environmental puzzles and intense combat encounters but also with navigation that demands attention, patience, and the full use of Cal Kestis’ Force abilities. For those seeking to fully explore the game’s secrets, complete their map, or pursue 100% completion, understanding the layout and purpose of the Observatory Understructure is essential.
Accessing the Observatory Understructure
Where to Begin
The Observatory Understructure is located beneath the central Observatory on the planet Koboh. To reach this area, players must first progress far enough in the main story to unlock traversal abilities such as the upgraded ascension cable and dash. Without these tools, access is limited and exploration becomes nearly impossible.
Travel Requirements
Before heading to the Observatory Understructure, players should ensure they have completed the following:
- Unlocked the Koboh Grinder upgrade
- Obtained the Electro Dart
- Fully upgraded traversal abilities (double jump, wall run, grapple boost)
- Reached the later stages of the campaign to unlock access to the Observatory proper
Overview of the Observatory Understructure
Environmental Design
This area is a layered, multi-path sublevel full of mechanical structures, moving platforms, and rotating mechanisms. The space feels ancient yet technologically advanced, with remnants of High Republic architecture merged with newer Imperial modifications. The design cleverly blends verticality and movement-based puzzles to test your platforming skills.
Falling hazards are common, and enemies often appear in tight corridors or near edge-of-death zones, increasing tension and requiring careful timing. The dark lighting and metallic tone of the Observatory Understructure add to its foreboding presence.
Combat Encounters
The deeper you go, the more resistance you’ll face. Players will encounter a mix of droids, Bedlam Raiders, and hostile wildlife. Some specific encounters in this region include:
- BX Commando Droids that use fast melee combos
- Security droids with grappling attacks
- Turrets positioned to knock players off ledges
- Multiple enemy ambushes after puzzle sections
Because space is limited and enemy types are varied, using Force Push to knock enemies off platforms or slowing time for better reaction is a smart strategy.
Puzzle Elements and Navigation
Using Koboh Matter
A major mechanic within the Observatory Understructure involves manipulating Koboh Matter, a strange green goo that blocks paths and activates mechanisms when ignited. Cal must use the Koboh Grinder ability to draw trails of fire across metal surfaces and ignite the matter at key points.
To succeed, players must:
- Locate energy sources to start the grinder
- Create continuous paths from flame points to Koboh Matter
- Avoid water or mechanical interference that breaks the trail
This mechanic ties directly into environmental storytelling, showing how the region was used in ancient times and how the High Republic’s technology remains active even now.
Platforming Challenges
Platforming is a central element of the Observatory Understructure. Players will find themselves grappling, wall-running, and dashing between moving elements. Timing is crucial as many platforms rotate or fall after a short duration.
To avoid unnecessary frustration:
- Always scan the environment before jumping
- Use BD-1’s visor to locate interactable objects
- Practice mid-air dashing to increase reach
Missed jumps often result in returning to a previous checkpoint, so mastering movement is key to success in this location.
Secrets and Collectibles
Datadiscs and Chests
The Observatory Understructure holds several datadiscs, which can be traded at Zee’s shop for upgrades and customization options. Players should also keep an eye out for cosmetic chests containing lightsaber parts, BD-1 skins, and Cal’s clothing options.
Hidden behind walls, beneath platforms, or near hazard zones, these collectibles reward careful exploration. One of the most elusive chests is hidden behind a flame puzzle that requires precision with the Koboh Grinder tool.
Force Echoes and Lore
Throughout the Observatory Understructure, Cal can interact with Force Echoes that reveal pieces of High Republic history. These echoes build on the lore of Koboh and its role in ancient Jedi operations. Some even hint at connections to the broader Star Wars universe, offering deeper narrative layers for fans to uncover.
Strategic Tips for Completing the Area
Save Often and Use Meditation Points
There are a few Meditation Points within the structure. Make sure to rest and save your progress often, especially after puzzle segments or combat zones. These points also allow for fast travel, skill upgrades, and restocking of stims.
Recommended Combat Stance
Due to the tight spaces and quick enemies, the Dual Wield stance is highly effective. It offers fast combos and mobility, perfect for countering droids and raiders in close quarters. However, some players may prefer Crossguard for more powerful finishers in narrow choke points.
Utilize BD-1’s Tools
BD-1 plays a key role in solving puzzles in this region. His Electro Dart allows activation of distant machinery, while his hacking ability can turn enemy droids into allies, giving Cal an edge in battle.
Importance of the Observatory Understructure in the Story
While not immediately critical to the main questline, the Observatory Understructure becomes increasingly important as the game progresses. It ties into the discovery of the hidden planet Tanalorr and the secrets of the High Republic Jedi. Exploring this area not only grants gameplay rewards but also narrative revelations.
Some critical story beats, such as locating data on ancient Jedi technology and learning more about Dagan Gera’s motivations, are found within this underground labyrinth. For those interested in lore, this region is not optional it’s essential.
The Observatory Understructure in Jedi Survivor is a masterfully crafted location filled with danger, lore, and hidden rewards. Navigating its platforms, defeating its enemies, and solving its puzzles requires a combination of skill, patience, and exploration. For players seeking to uncover every mystery on Koboh and complete their journey as a Jedi Knight, the Observatory Understructure is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re in it for the action, the story, or the challenge, this area delivers one of the most rewarding experiences in the game’s world.