When Star Wars Outlaws was announced, it was met with a mix of excitement and skepticism. Some were eager for an open-world Star Wars experience, while others immediately zeroed in on irrelevant aspects—like how the main character, Kay Vess, looked. Let’s be real for a second: who cares? If your biggest gripe with the game is a character’s appearance rather than the gameplay, storytelling, or world-building, then maybe video games aren’t for you.
Now that the dust has settled, let’s talk about what really matters: Star Wars Outlaws is a fantastic game. It may not reinvent the open-world formula, but it delivers a compelling experience within the Star Wars universe. It’s got stunning environments, fun exploration, and one of the best mini-games in a long time—Kessel Sabbac is dangerously addictive.
A Visual Spectacle
Ubisoft Massive nailed the look and feel of Star Wars. From the bustling cantinas to the vast, crime-ridden Outer Rim planets, the game captures that perfect mix of grit and grandeur. Whether you’re cruising in the Trailblazer or sneaking through Imperial-controlled outposts, the environments feel alive.
The lighting, weather effects, and attention to detail in the world-building make for an immersive experience. Flying seamlessly between space and planets feels like a dream for Star Wars fans. It’s not No Man’s Sky levels of seamless, but it does the job well without overpromising.
Kay Vess – A Smuggler Worth Rooting For
Kay Vess may not be a Jedi, but that’s what makes her story compelling. Not every Star Wars protagonist needs to wield a lightsaber. As an outlaw in the criminal underworld, Kay’s journey feels refreshing. Her dynamic with her companion, Nix, adds personality to the game, and the voice acting is top-notch.
Gameplay – Light, But Engaging
If there’s one criticism that holds some weight, it’s that Star Wars Outlaws plays things a little safe. The mechanics—blaster combat, stealth, speeder traversal—are all solid but don’t push boundaries. It’s a Star Wars take on Ubisoft’s open-world formula, and while it doesn’t revolutionize gameplay, it executes well enough to be enjoyable.
The faction system adds some depth, giving players choices that influence how different syndicates react to them. But if you’re expecting Red Dead Redemption 2 levels of NPC interaction or emergent gameplay, you might be left wanting.
Kessel Sabbac – The Mini-Game That Steals the Show
Ubisoft did not have to make Kessel Sabbac this good, but they did. It’s easy to lose hours gambling, bluffing, and outplaying opponents. It’s the perfect side activity in a game full of smugglers and outlaws, and honestly, I’d take a standalone Sabbac game if they made one.
The Verdict
Star Wars Outlaws isn’t perfect, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s an immersive, visually stunning Star Wars adventure that tells a fun, engaging story. It could have used more depth in its mechanics, but it delivers a satisfying open-world experience that captures the spirit of the galaxy far, far away.
If you skipped it because of internet outrage over meaningless things, you’re missing out. At the end of the day, Star Wars Outlaws is proof that there’s room for non-Jedi stories in this universe—and it’s a damn good ride.
My Final Score: 8/10
