Developing a video game for a highly iconic franchise like Star Wars is no small feat, and for the Swedish game studio Massive Entertainment, it has been a challenging yet rewarding journey. The studio, located in Malmö, transitioned from being long-time fans of the franchise to professional creators as they worked on their much-anticipated game, “Star Wars Outlaws.” This ambitious project, set to release on August 30, illustrates the dedication and extensive effort required to produce a game set between the events of “Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi.”
The team at Massive Entertainment, consisting of hundreds of developers, faced the monumental task of crafting a new story within the beloved Star Wars universe. Many of these developers grew up with Star Wars, and this personal connection galvanized a deep sense of enthusiasm and commitment throughout the development process. With a palpable energy driving them, the staff immersed themselves in ensuring that their passion translated into a quality game that both old and new fans would enjoy.
Mathias Karlson, one of the developers, highlighted the shift from mere fandom to the serious craftsmanship required to create “Star Wars Outlaws.” The team was granted the opportunity to develop new narratives within the established Star Wars framework, fostering creativity while respecting the franchise’s legacy. This collaboration with Lucasfilm enabled Massive Entertainment to balance innovation with tradition, a balancing act critical to developing a game that would resonate with fans around the world.
Creative freedom played a significant role in the development of “Star Wars Outlaws,” as stated by the studio’s creative director, Julian Gerighty. The developers had the liberty to introduce new elements and mechanics that would enhance player autonomy. This included decisions such as choosing vehicles and forming alliances, which would ultimately elevate the level of engagement and immersion for the player. The goal was to offer a gaming experience where players could genuinely feel part of the Star Wars universe.
The game features the main character Kay Vess, a heavily tattooed thief on a mission to pull off a major heist, accompanied by her animal companion Nix. Kay navigates through perilous planets and encounters with crime bosses, creating a thrilling and adventurous narrative. The setting of the game incorporates both fresh and recognizable locations from the Star Wars saga, like Cantonica from “The Last Jedi,” while deliberately avoiding overused planets like Tatooine. This deliberate choice aimed to offer a mix of novelty and nostalgia to players.
Inspiration for the game’s design drew heavily from Western and samurai films, aligning with George Lucas’s original inspirations for the Star Wars trilogy. This influence manifested in the game’s cinematic realism, where the developers strived to capture the essence of the films. The combination of these elements aimed to create an experience that felt authentic to the spirit of Star Wars while providing something fresh and exciting for players.
“Star Wars Outlaws” is set to be a comprehensive and engaging game suitable for audiences of all ages, available on platforms including PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Massive Entertainment skillfully navigated the fine line between respecting the storied franchise and incorporating innovative elements. Their journey from passionate fans to dedicated developers has resulted in a game that promises both nostalgic moments and new adventures for Star Wars enthusiasts.
