Star Wars Outlaws is an open-world action-adventure game set in the Star Wars universe, developed by Massive Entertainment and published by Ubisoft. It was first released on August 29, 2024, for platforms including Windows PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and others. The Nintendo Switch 2 version launched later on September 4, 2025[1][2][7].
The game places players in the role of Kay Vess, a scoundrel navigating the dangerous galaxy between the events of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Players engage in high-stakes missions involving theft, infiltration, and combat against various factions such as the Hutt Cartel. The gameplay combines first-person and third-person perspectives, blending action, RPG, and shooter elements[2][4][7].
Star Wars Outlaws is notable for being the first truly open-world Star Wars game. It features expansive environments on iconic planets like Tatooine, as well as new locations. Players can explore vast desert dunes, cities like Mos Eisley, and the surrounding space. The open world allows for diverse activities such as recruiting mercenaries, undertaking contracts, playing in-game games like Kessel Sabacc, and uncovering hidden secrets and scenic vistas beyond city limits[3][5][6].
A key feature is piloting the Trailblazer, Kay Vess’s ship, to engage in space dogfights against Imperial forces and other enemies. This adds a dynamic aerial combat layer to the ground-based exploration and missions. The game emphasizes player choice, with decisions affecting Kay’s reputation and how factions respond, creating an evolving narrative experience[1][3].
Ubisoft released a free demo for Star Wars Outlaws on Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5, offering up to three hours of gameplay focused on the Tatooine segment. The demo allows players to experience core gameplay elements such as speeder navigation, combat against Tusken Raiders and the Hutt Cartel, contract missions, and space combat. However, save progress from the demo does not carry over to the full game[3][5].
The game uses the Ubisoft Snowdrop engine and incorporates DRM systems like Ubisoft Connect and Denuvo on PC. It has received generally positive reviews, with Metacritic scores around 77, praising its solid open-world design and engaging story, though some critiques mention technical issues and pacing[2][4].
In summary, Star Wars Outlaws offers a rich open-world Star Wars experience with a focus on scoundrel-style gameplay, combining ground and space combat, exploration, and narrative choices. Its staggered release dates across platforms culminated with the Nintendo Switch 2 launch in September 2025, supported by a free demo to introduce players to its immersive galaxy[1][3][6].
