Star Wars Outlaws review: It’s the loos – not the lightsabers – in that galaxy far, far away which make the new Star Wars adventure such a novel treat

As a seasoned gamer with over three decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the gaming landscape has certainly evolved, but it still manages to surprise me every now and then. Take Star Wars Outlaws for instance; I’ve played my fair share of Star Wars games, from lightsaber-wielding Jedi to intergalactic dogfights, but never have I encountered a game that features toilets in a galaxy far, far away! It’s these little details that make Outlaws stand out. The gameplay is reminiscent of Assassin’s Creed Mirage and Hogwarts Legacy, offering an open-world Star Wars experience with a focus on story and character development.

Star Wars Outlaws (PlayStation, Xbox, PC, £69.99)

Verdict: Care and character

Have you ever imagined what a bathroom might look like in the Star Wars universe? Well, you’ll find out approximately ten minutes into Star Wars: Outlaws.

At the rear of a nightclub where our protagonist, Kay Vess, clandestinely moves, you’ll find private spaces apparently designed for extraterrestrial activities – their interstellar transactions or duties, if you will.

Those toilets are sort of the point of Outlaws — in a good way. 

In my fervent enthusiasm for this universe, let me clarify that it’s not the grandiose, epic Star Wars with its Jedi, lightsabers, and lofty prophecies. Instead, it’s a gritty, money-driven tale set in the murky underbelly of crime.

From the outset, Outlaws stand apart, offering a fresh take even within this familiar star system. Longtime enthusiasts will find delight in specific droids and the dramatic opening of doors, but what’s truly captivating is its sense of novelty amidst this meticulously charted galaxy, far, far away.

Kay’s character is one of an endearing rogue, and so is her clever sidekick Nix, whose adorable nature allows him to carry out diverse duties such as diverting guards with his charm.

In an open-world setting, they traverse various planets as seen in what’s known as the pioneering open-world Star Wars video game. However, it’s the open-world aspect of Outlaws that feels less innovative compared to other elements.

You traverse vast territories using running or biking, completing small missions along the way, improving your abilities and acquiring superior gear, all with the aim of advancing within a narrative about rival underground forces.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m always keen on exploring advancements in gaming, and I must say, Ubisoft has been making remarkable strides, particularly with their latest project, Assassin’s Creed Mirage.

This isn’t a universe of a million map-markers and pointless tasks. It’s a relatively focused and very lovingly created experience.

Actually, Outlaws brought to mind another modern (non-Ubisoft) launch: last year’s Hogwarts Legacy. It’s not particularly surprising, but it truly shines — and significantly so! — due to the meticulous attention paid to recreating its widely loved universe. Even the toilets are impressively detailed.

Emio — The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club (Nintendo Switch, £39.99)

Verdict: Raises half a smile

Interestingly enough, the Famicom Detective Club series began in the late 1980s with two games, “The Missing Heir” and “The Girl Who Stands Behind,” both launched in Japan. However, it didn’t gain significant momentum beyond those initial releases.

In 1997, neither the original game nor its supposed sequel had been introduced to the Western world. Essentially, it seems as though the entire concept of this series might have vanished without a trace, leaving us with an unsolved mystery.

Initially, the original versions of those two games were released back in their time. However, in 2021, Nintendo decided to update these classic titles and distribute them worldwide. Now, three years later, we have a fresh sequel: Emio – The Smiling Man. The case has been reopened.

It’s peculiar that even contemporary adaptations seem bound by the temporal constraints of the original Famicom Detective Club games, and The Smiling Man appears no exception. This game, with its vintage feel, has you playing as an up-and-coming detective who selects actions from a list to advance the murder mystery.

1. Shall I engage in conversation with the police officer standing before me?

This isn’t about saying it’s an unpleasant encounter. Initially, interacting with The Smiling Man might seem like a game of guesswork; you find yourself wanting to speak when you should listen, growing frustrated when you should be contemplating. However, once you understand its expectations, guiding each dialogue towards its conclusion becomes quite gratifying.

Instead of delving into the larger enigma, let me address something else: This story initially grabs your attention – children dying after meeting a spooky figure wearing a bag on his head – but it wanders off to areas that are either too confusing or not fully developed. It’s entertaining enough for a leisurely afternoon read, but doesn’t offer much beyond that.

Still, I could bear to see more entries in this long-lived, long-ignored series.Just give them better stories in future, Nintendo, and you’ll make a smiling man out of me.

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2024-08-30 03:41