Summary
Star Wars Outlaws, being developed by Ubisoft in conjunction with Massive Entertainment, is ready to arrive later this year as the latest game in the hugely popular IP. Though there have been dozens of entries under the banner over the years,Star Wars Outlawswill technically be the first truly open-worldStar Warsexperience. In this way, it shares an overarching connection to another epic sci-fi series with massive amounts of lore and history attached— BioWare’sMass Effectfranchise.
BioWare itself is, of course, no stranger toStar Wars, as prior toMass Effect, the studio’s work on 2003’sKnights of the Old Republichas since made it one of the most beloved and fascinating stories inStar Warsand beyond.KOTRis now regarded as a standout game of the era and a bonafide classic. Like it,Mass Effectincorporates heavily choice-driven narratives and factional reputation systems, along with third-person gameplay and RPG mechanics.Star Wars Outlawsis set to follow suit in many of these areas. However, there is an interesting contrast in a specific detail between the two, namely, the approach taken to their protagonists and their role in each’s respective universe.
Currently set for an June 18, 2025, release date,Star Wars Outlawsexperienced some controversy over its pre-orderand deluxe editions.
Star Wars Outlaws and Mass Effect Approach Similar Setups from Opposite Perspectives
Commander Shepard’s Mission in Mass Effect
Mass Effectprotagonist Commander Shepard’s galaxy-spanning quest is kicked off with their designation by the CitadelCouncil to undertake the task of uncovering the truth behind theReaper’s existential threat to humanity. Shepard must recruit allies and formulate a plan to prevent the Reapers from extinguishing billions of lives in their latest culling cycle.Mass Effectallowed fans to choose to lean into either upstanding Paragon paths, or step outside the strict bounds of authority to bend rules and accomplish their goals via any means necessary by going Renegade. Still, Shepard ostensibly was doing so in service to an organization dedicated to preventing a grand-scale tragedy and saving the universe.ME’s scope allowed players to solve problems great and small for its various races populating its vast worlds, but the major focus was always on finding a way to halt the Reaper invasion.
Kay Vess' Role in Star Wars Outlaws
Star Wars Outlawshas many fans excited due to its time period in the canon, as it will see players embark on an adventure set betweenEmpire Strikes BackandReturn of the Jedi.Star Wars Outlawsproudly proclaims its “scum and villainy” vibes, and will have players step into smuggler and thief-for-hire Kay Vess' shoes. Contrasting with Shepard’s duties, Kay’s looks to involve smaller scale, but more deeply personal stakes, as she maneuvers to gain leverage over, hustle, or otherwise outwit her competition, gaining wealth and prestige in the process.
With her profession, Kay appears to be looking out for her own interests first and foremost, concerned solely with surviving and scraping by under the oppressive Imperial eye while staying one step ahead of nefarious underworld organizations led by intimidating and influential figures. Accompanied by her faithful droid, ND-5, players will be exploring some notable and familiarplanets and locales inStar Wars Outlaws. Along the way, they will encounter a cast of NPCs and factions and will be able to tailor their decisions regarding them accordingly.
Given the time frame, it would likely naturally make sense for Kay to come into contact with members of the Rebel Alliance. This would present interesting opportunities for fans to have their version of Kay inStar Wars Outlawsreflect Han Solo’s arcby starting with a carefree, freewheeling attitude, but finding a moral center eventually leading to her assisting them. Even if not,Star Wars Outlawsalready has an interesting dynamic compared to Shepard’s narrative angle inMass Effect, making them perhaps akin to differing sides of the Force, from a certain point of view.
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.
