Star Wars Outlaws Review

by Ubisoft 0 text

Scoundrels, lasers, and starry misadventures. No Jedi? No problem.

Set in the vast expanse of a galaxy far, far away, Star Wars Outlaws takes a bold step away from the well-trodden path of Jedi and Sith, focusing instead on the gritty underworld between *The Empire Strikes Back* and *Return of the Jedi*. As Kay Vess, a cunning scoundrel, players navigate a universe steeped in rebellion, crime syndicates, and the ever-looming threat of the Empire. With her loyal companion, Nix, by her side, Kay embarks on a journey driven by her desire for freedom, wealth, and survival.

Star Wars Outlaws is an open-world action-adventure game that blends various gameplay styles, including stealth, combat, and exploration, with a rich narrative that explores the morally gray areas of the Star Wars universe. The game is distinguished by its focus on the criminal underworld, offering a fresh perspective on the Star Wars saga without relying on lightsabers or the Force.

Gameplay 8

Star Wars Outlaws offers a gameplay experience that is as diverse as it is engaging. The game combines traditional third-person shooter mechanics with stealth elements, vehicle combat, and space dogfights, creating a multifaceted experience that keeps players on their toes. The stealth mechanics, in particular, shine, allowing players to approach missions in various ways—whether through direct confrontation or by sneaking past enemies using Nix to create distractions.

The reputation system adds a layer of strategy to the game, as players must balance their relationships with various crime syndicates, such as the Pyke Syndicate, Crimson Dawn, and the Hutts. This system affects not only the narrative but also gameplay, influencing mission availability and the behavior of NPCs. The result is a dynamic world where choices have tangible consequences.

However, the game is not without its flaws. The combat, while satisfying, can feel repetitive, especially in the early stages. Some players may find the stealth sections frustrating due to the lack of variety in enemy behavior and the occasional forced stealth missions that result in instant failure if detected.

Graphics 7

Visually, Star Wars Outlaws captures the essence of the Star Wars universe, with detailed environments that range from the bustling streets of Cantonica to the desolate deserts of Tatooine. The game's art direction effectively blends the familiar with the new, introducing original characters and locations that feel right at home in the broader Star Wars canon.

However, the graphics are not without their shortcomings. While the environments are rich in detail, the character animations, particularly those of Kay, can be stiff and occasionally jarring. Facial animations, especially for secondary characters, often lack the polish seen in other contemporary titles. Despite these issues, the game manages to create a visually compelling world that fans of the franchise will appreciate.

Storyline 8.5

The narrative of Star Wars Outlaws is one of its strongest aspects, offering a fresh take on the Star Wars universe. Kay Vess is a relatable and likable protagonist, whose journey from a small-time crook to a galaxy-renowned outlaw is both engaging and emotionally resonant. The story does an excellent job of balancing high-stakes heists with quieter, character-driven moments that explore Kay's motivations and relationships.

The game's handling of the criminal underworld is particularly noteworthy, as it delves into the complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and survival in a galaxy dominated by the Empire. The dialogue and interactions with NPCs are well-written, contributing to a world that feels lived-in and authentic. While the main story is compelling, some of the side characters could have been more developed, and the narrative pacing occasionally falters, particularly in the mid-game.

Multiplayer N/A

Star Wars Outlaws does not feature a multiplayer mode, focusing instead on delivering a rich single-player experience. The game's open-world structure and branching narrative would have lent themselves well to a cooperative mode, but the absence of multiplayer does not detract from the overall experience.

Issues and Community Feedback

While Star Wars Outlaws has been praised for its story, characters, and world-building, it has also faced criticism from players. Common complaints include the game's uneven difficulty curve, with some sections being overly challenging due to poorly implemented stealth mechanics. Additionally, the early stages of the game can feel slow, with combat that only becomes more engaging after significant upgrades are unlocked.

Conclusion 8

Star Wars Outlaws is a welcome addition to the Star Wars gaming franchise, offering a unique perspective on the galaxy far, far away. With its engaging story, diverse gameplay, and rich world-building, the game manages to stand out despite its flaws. While it may not be perfect, Star Wars Outlaws is a must-play for fans of the franchise and anyone looking for a well-crafted open-world adventure.

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Please note that this review is based on the feedback and sentiments of players on various Reddit threads and does not represent the views of all players.