Star Wars Can Function Without Lightsabers
Star Wars tells the epic story of good versus evil, light against dark, in the vast universe. Ubisoft is digging into the middle ground with their new video game, where you don't need supernatural powers to make a name for yourself.
The quintessential sounds of lightsabers slicing through the air, iconic phrases like "May the Force be with you," and extraordinary abilities are found in Jedi Knights such as Luke Skywalker. But not all adaptations of this iconic brand are box office successes. The French developer Ubisoft is branching out into the shadier side of this cosmos, revolving around smugglers and thieves. They've zeroed in on a female Han Solo-esque protagonist.
The Star Wars franchise is a heavyweight with a massive fan base. While the video game adaptation "Star Wars Jedi: Survivor" by Electronic Arts was a hit, some Disney series like "Obi Wan-Kenobi" and "The Book of Boba Fett" didn't impress either fans or critics. "Andor," which shows the perspective of regular folk in the Star Wars universe, has won over young fans. Ubisoft, along with Massive Entertainment, has set its sights on this audience.
Playing as Kay Vess, you lack any Jedi powers but have Nix, an eccentric alien creature, as a hapless sidekick to help pull off the biggest heist of the galaxy. This is the first open-world Star Wars game. During a demo session in Los Angeles, ntv.de had the chance to try out three missions from this upcoming AAA title.
Adding more shootouts, less lightsaber duels
The game already delivers more blaster action than lightsaber action, which heightens the experience. Additionally, there are space chases and firefights between spaceships. The music, sound effects, and zany alien creatures evoke the Star Wars vibe while playing.
Game Director Mathias Karlson gushes about their authentic recreation of this world and says, "We're really proud of how authentically we've crafted this universe, making it feel like genuine Star Wars." It was their collaboration with Lucas Films that made the difference, according to Karlson. It feels like a seamless addition to the Star Wars universe.
Kay doesn't have any ties to the Rebels and isn't a Jedi. Instead, she's a "scoundrel" or "criminal," fighting for personal freedom. As the title suggests, she's an outlaw. The developers describe her as someone seeking to escape her current situation and make a big move.
Balancing familiar faces with new characters
"It's a fresh approach," says Narrative Director Navid Khavari. While ensuring everyone can relate to the protagonist, they wanted to keep key touchstones in place. Jabba the Hutt has made an appearance in trailers, and the Empire will play a significant role. Stormtroopers are present in various areas, creating tension for players to escape them. Khavari explains, "There are incentives in the world to break the rules and try to make your way through. The Empire's troops react to that. They will chase and hunt you, and you must run away. And that becomes the player experience."
"Star Wars: Outlaws" is set to grace players worldwide very soon. The release date is set for August 30th.
In a universe of light and dark, where good fights evil, Ubisoft is exploring the middle ground with their latest video game piloted by a fiery female protagonist without supernatural powers. This iconic world now features more action and adventure, interweaving old characters like Jabba the Hutt and the Empire, yet focusing on a new, desperate character battling their way through. Star Wars: Outlaws, an open-world game, is on track for a release date in August - attracting both die-hard fans and curious newcomers.
