Ubisoft’s upcoming open-world game, Star Wars Outlaws, was initially projected for a ‘late 2024’ release, according to a recent Disney Parks blog. This information has since been revised, with the publisher clarifying to Kotaku that the timeline was inaccurately reported. First unveiled during an Xbox Showcase last year, the game takes place between the iconic films The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, featuring Kay Vess, a rogue character pursued by bounty hunters after a job goes awry. Accompanying her is Nix, a charming creature resembling an axolotl, who assists players in various tasks much like the BD-1 droid from Star Wars Jedi: Survivor.
“This is a character who is just trying to get by—stealing, outwitting and conning folks,” said Narrative Director Navid Khavari in an interview with Kotaku. “I would love for folks playing the game to really get a sense of what it might feel like to step into the underworld.” The narrative unfolds during a time when the ruthless Empire is tightening its grip on the galaxy, creating a ‘power vacuum’ where criminal elements thrive. Players will help Kay and Nix navigate the underbelly of the galaxy by undertaking dangerous contracts and dealing with various crime syndicates to enhance their reputation. The game reportedly features a faction system that opens up new questlines and alters relationships based on previous choices. While it’s still uncertain whether players can align with multiple factions in one playthrough, Jabba the Hutt has been confirmed as one of the quest-givers.
Last year, developer Massive Entertainment showcased gameplay footage revealing that Kay Vess lacks Jedi abilities, leading her to rely on firearms or any nearby weapons to confront foes. Additionally, players will utilize a hovering motorcycle equipped with a nitrous booster for fast-paced escapes and the ability to slow down time to target enemies, reminiscent of the Dead Eye skill from Red Dead Redemption 2.
In terms of exploration, Ubisoft asserts that players will have the freedom to navigate their ship, named ‘Trailblazer,’ and seamlessly travel between planets. Concerns remain regarding whether this feature will be as engaging as expected or devolve into mechanics similar to Starfield, which relied heavily on fast travel and loading screens. Players should anticipate encounters with space battles, and like most RPGs, veering off the main path will likely provide unique rewards. Gameplay will encompass three distinct environments: bustling cities filled with NPCs, shops, and cantinas; sprawling open worlds like the deserts of Tatooine; and the expansive void of space.
Star Wars Outlaws is currently scheduled for release sometime in 2024 and will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S/X.
