As one of the most recognizable images in Star Wars, lightsabers were unexpectedly absent in Star Wars Outlaws, a Ubisoft game that introduces new characters while also expanding on the existing lore. As one of the most prominent images in the entire Star Wars franchise, the main weapon used by both Jedi and Sith lords. Ubisoft’s choice may appear as a misstep but it is actually the smartest move it could make when handling the Star Wars brand.

Star Wars Outlaws follows Kay Vess, an outlaw, and her adorable best friend Nix as they complete various missions for the galaxy’s biggest crime bosses. Unlike many of the protagonists in the movies or games, Vess has no attachment to the Force. She does not belong to the Sith Order, nor is she a Jedi, so she has no pre-existing alignment, nor does she have a reason to use a lightsaber.

Only The Force Deals In Lightsabers

Not Really, But Sort Of

Since the lightsaber is more of a Force weapon (though non-force sensitive characters have used one as well), Vess utilizes the more scoundrel-centric weapon, the blaster, which can be seen in Ubisoft’s official trailer for the game. This is a huge difference from most of the other Star Wars games, such as Star Wars Jedi: Survivor. These games, and the franchise as a whole, put a heavy emphasis on lightsaber combat as well as Force characters.

As Vess, players get to refreshingly utilize a different combat style with the blaster. Players also get a new type of protagonist, one that can make up her own rules as she goes. Vess is a brand new smuggler character to the universe, and she exists in the time between Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, the last two films in the original trilogy.

"Star Wars Outlaws feels like a new perspective on the Star Wars universe, feeling far grimier as it depicts a world full of scum and villainy." - Glenn Bunn - Screen Rant's Star Wars Outlaws Review

Through Vess, players get to see a new side of this universe and navigate the complex criminal underbelly. This is new territory for the franchise to explore but everyone at LucasFilms and Disney was excited at the opportunity, according to Star Wars Outlaws Narrative Director Navid Khavari when speaking with Screen Rant.

A New Game For New And Old Fans Alike

Even Without Lightsabers

This is a game tackling a new kind of hero, a new combat style, and also wants to invite new gamers. On the official Star Wars page, it states, “While Outlaws has plenty of features sure to delight expert gamers, Massive Entertainment and Lucasfilm Games made sure the first-ever open world Star Wars game could also be enjoyed by people who may have not played many, or any, video games before.”

While lightsabers may be absent from Star Wars Outlaws, the game is a wonderful homage to the franchise while simultaneously waving in a new era of characters and story opportunities. This game will hopefully open the door for many like it, breathing new life into the franchise.

Source: Ubisoft/Youtube

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