Summary
Ubisoft and Massive Entertainment’s upcomingStar WarsadventureStar Wars Outlawscould be considered one of 2024’s most anticipated titles for a number of reasons, but its open-world model and unique setting are undoubtedly at the top of that list. It’s not common for aStar Warsgame to neglect including Jedi, as that is typically what people think of when they callStar Warsto mind. This, and the fact that there is arguably nothing like wielding a lightsaber and using the powers of the Force in a video game, is what generally leads to mostStar Warsgamesmaking the main character a Jedi. However, Massive and Ubisoft are taking a leap of faith withStar Wars Outlawsby potentially excluding Force users — at least, that seems to be the case according to what has been revealed so far.
There is an argument both for and against the exclusion of Force users in aStar Warsgame, evenStar Wars Outlaws. On the one hand, it might make sense to leave them out altogether, considering the game’s setting, tone, and narrative. On the other hand, manyStar Warsfans may be at least expecting to see their favorite Jedi make a cameo at some point, as that might be seen as a more authenticStar Warsexperience.
Star Wars Outlaws Featuring Force Users Has Obvious Appeal
The primary reason why including Force users inStar Wars Outlawsmight be a good idea is the fan service it could provide. New and longtimeStar Warsfans alike might leap at the chance to see their favorite Jedi, like Luke Skywalker orAhsoka Tano, appear for a brief cameo duringStar Wars Outlaws' story. Ahsoka’s appearance might be an especially appropriate addition to the game, since the acclaimed Jedi was noticeably absent throughout the originalStar Warsfilm trilogy, even though it has since been confirmed that she was alive during the period.
Fan service is a common marketing tool in the entertainment industry, so it wouldn’t be too far-fetched forStar Wars Outlawsto include some in the way of featuringStar Wars' most renowned Jedi. It might even be considered a way of makingStar Wars Outlawsmore accessible to those who may not be as familiar with theStar Warsuniverse as those who have deeply entrenched themselves in its lore. Still, featuring Force users of any kind could ultimately subtract fromStar Wars Outlaws' underground setting, so it would need to be handled with care.
Star Wars Outlaws Excluding Force Users Could Reinforce the Game’s Setting
The strongest argument against featuringJedi and Sith inStar Wars Outlawsrevolves around the game’s setting.Outlawsis set in the criminal underworld of theStar Warsgalaxy, a place that likely wouldn’t be frequented by Jedi. Furthermore,Star Wars Outlawstakes place between the events ofStar Wars: Episode 5 - The Empire Strikes BackandStar Wars: Episode 6 - Return of the Jedi, a time when the Jedi were nearly extinct. As such, it might not make sense to throw in a Force user just for a bit of fan service.
Star Wars Outlawsalso needs to set itself apart enough to not simply be labeled “anotherStar Warsgame,” and excluding Force users could certify that. In every way,Star Wars Outlawsneeds to stand out in the crowd, especially with acclaimed franchises likeRespawn’sStar Wars Jedibehind it. IfOutlawsdoes choose to leave the Jedi and Sith out of its world, it could be one of its most defining characteristics and perhaps even a point of praise for it, as it wouldn’t rely on a trope that has become all too commonplace inStar Warsgames. In any case,Star Wars Outlawswill still have one unique characteristic: a normal, non-Force-using main character.
Star Wars Outlaws
WHERE TO PLAY
Experience the first-ever open world Star Wars game and explore distinct planets across the galaxy, both iconic and new. Risk it all as Kay Vess, an emerging scoundrel seeking freedom and the means to start a new life. Fight, steal, & outwit your way through the galaxy’s crime syndicates as you join the galaxy’s most wanted. If you’re willing to take the risk, the galaxy is full of opportunity.DISCOVER A GALAXY OF OPPORTUNITYExplore distinct planets with bustling cities and cantinas before racing across sprawling outdoor landscapes on your speeder. Each planet brings new adventures, unique challenges, and enticing rewards if you’re willing to take the risk.EXPERIENCE AN ORIGINAL SCOUNDREL STORYLive the high-stakes lifestyle of an outlaw. With Nix by your side, turn any situation to your advantage: fight with your blaster, overcome enemies with stealth and gadgets, or find the right moments to distract enemies and gain the upper hand.EMBARK ON HIGH-STAKES MISSIONSTake on high-risk, high-reward missions from the galaxy’s crime syndicates. Steal valuable goods, infiltrate secret locations, and outwit enemies as one of the galaxy’s most wanted. Every choice you make influences your ever-changing reputation.JUMP INTO THE PILOT SEATPilot your ship, The Trailblazer, as you engage in thrilling dogfights with The Empire and other foes, finding the right opportunities to chase, evade, and attack to get the upper hand.
