Star Wars Outlaws recently debuted on Steam, bringing Ubisoft’s signature open-world approach to a galaxy far, far away. While the game offers stunning visuals and a fresh narrative, it has faced mixed reception due to technical issues, repetitive mechanics, and broader controversies surrounding Ubisoft’s business practices.
A Galactic Adventure with Strengths and Flaws
Set in the Star Wars underworld, Star Wars Outlaws introduces Kay Vess, a scoundrel navigating her way through heists and betrayals. The game is praised for its rich environments and a fresh take on Star Wars storytelling, particularly its focus on morally ambiguous characters. Players explore diverse planets like Tatooine and the new, visually captivating Toshara, with plenty of secrets and side quests to uncover.
However, the gameplay, while initially exciting, struggles to maintain momentum. The stealth mechanics, for instance, quickly become predictable after a few hours, leading to repetitive strategies. The combat system, though improved with customizable blasters and gear, requires adjustments like higher difficulty settings to feel engaging. Ubisoft’s integration of a “galactic scavenger hunt” for upgrades offers an interesting twist but can feel tedious over time.
Official Trailer
Performance Woes on PC
The game’s launch has been marred by performance issues, particularly on mid-tier PCs. Reports indicate struggles with frame rates and stuttering, especially in large outdoor areas. Although some players have found tweaks to improve stability, these problems detract from the immersion many had hoped for. Ubisoft has promised patches to address these issues, but for now, they remain a sticking point.
Low Player Engagement: A Cause for Concern
One of the most telling statistics is the game’s underwhelming player peak on Steam, which topped out at 1,636 concurrent players. For a AAA title tied to a franchise as massive as Star Wars, this is shockingly low. The lukewarm reception can partly be attributed to Ubisoft’s controversial stance on digital ownership. Statements implying players don’t truly “own” their purchased games have sparked boycotts, with gamers pushing back against what they see as anti-consumer policies.
A Divisive Reception
While many appreciate the game’s narrative and world-building, others highlight its shortcomings. Reviews often cite the game’s potential, noting that it could have been a standout title with more polish and innovation. Some even argue that Ubisoft’s open-world formula feels outdated, suggesting that audiences may be moving on from its heavily systematized design philosophy.
Final Thoughts
Star Wars Outlaws is a game with undeniable charm and ambition but one that fails to fully capitalize on its potential. Its limited peak player count and mixed reviews reflect both its technical shortcomings and a broader disconnect between Ubisoft and its audience. While the game offers moments of brilliance for Star Wars fans, it may ultimately be overshadowed by controversies and a lack of refinement.
Ubisoft has the opportunity to turn things around with future updates, but whether they can regain players’ trust remains to be seen. For now, Star Wars Outlaws is a flawed gem—a game that shines in parts but stumbles when aiming for greatness.