The review embargo for Star Wars Outlaws has finally lifted, and critics around the globe have shared their opinions on the game. The overall reception has been quite mixed, with each reviewer focusing on different aspects of the gameplay, narrative, mechanics, and more. There doesn’t seem to be a clear consensus among critics, making Star Wars Outlaws one of the most divisive games of the year. Some reviewers have praised the game for its plot, particularly its focus on the underbelly of the Star Wars universe. Others have questioned the motivations of the protagonist, Kay Vess, and criticized her character growth throughout the game. Additionally, some have lauded the game’s open-world design, freedom, and opportunities for experimentation, while others have found these elements to be too safe and formulaic.
Steph Panecasio from GamesHub expressed pure joy in playing Star Wars Outlaws, calling it the most fun she had experienced in a game all year. She particularly appreciated the relationship between the main crew of the Trailblazer and the vast world-building of the game. However, on the opposite end of the spectrum, Chris Tapsell from Eurogamer had a more negative view of the game. While he praised certain aspects like Kessel Sabacc and the mature themes, he criticized the game’s open-world structure, exploration linearity, platforming, and speeder controls. Tapsell also questioned the limited player choices and repetitive battles in the game.
Chris Button from GadgetGuy had positive things to say about the criminal setting and stealth elements of Star Wars Outlaws, appreciating the lack of traditional open-world bloat in the game. He commended the tightness of the missions and the character growth of Kay Vess through her journey. Over at IGN, Tristan Ogilvie highlighted the sense of adventure in the game, comparing it to a Guy Ritchie film with its fresh crime story. He praised the game for being consistently entertaining, despite its flaws. However, James Wood from Press Start Australia was less impressed, criticizing the game for feeling “frictionless” and lacking depth in its story. Wood found the narrative to be goofy and labeled Kay Vess as archetypal with no distinctive character development.
Jordan Middler from VGC expressed disappointment in Star Wars Outlaws, believing that it failed to live up to its potential. Despite strong main characters and interesting mechanics, Middler felt that the game played it too safe in terms of creative choices. While there were elements of the game that were enjoyable, Middler believed that it left players wanting more, yearning for a sequel that could fully capitalize on the best aspects of the game.
Star Wars Outlaws has garnered a wide range of reactions from critics, showcasing the game’s divisive nature. While some have praised its immersion in the Star Wars universe and character development, others have criticized its lack of depth and safe gameplay choices. Ultimately, the true impact of Star Wars Outlaws seems to lie in the eye of the beholder, with each player interpreting the game in their unique way.
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