Summary
Though each one obviously has its own unique traits, the vast majority of open-world RPGs do share a lot of the same mechanics and core features. An expansive progression system, some kind of player-choice built into the narrative, a slew of unlockable weapons and armor, and a solid set of companions are allcommon features of an open-world RPG, and all seem to be present in Ubisoft’s upcomingStar Wars Outlaws.
First unveiled during Xbox’s June Showcase and then given a gameplay demonstration at Ubisoft’s own event,Star Wars Outlawsalready looks like quite the impressive entry intheStar Warsvideo game canon. Putting players in the well-worn boots of Kay Vess,Star Wars Outlawssees players smuggle their way through the galaxy, meeting plenty of equally conniving faces along the way. And with such a seeming emphasis on character interaction, there’s a case to be made forStar Wars Outlawsto include some kind of romance options.
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The Argument For Star Wars Outlaws Having Romance Options
Romance options aren’t often seen inStar Warsgames. In fact, the only time romance options have been available in aStar Warsvideo game is intheKnights of the Old Republicseries, and its MMO sequelThe Old Republic, where players can romance a handful of their companions. In general, the romance side ofKnights of the Old Republicis pretty great. For those that don’t want to engage in the system and keep all their relationships plutonic, that option is there, but for those that want to find out more about their crewmates and companions,KOTOR’s romance system allows embraces that fully.
Engaging inKnights of the Old Republic’s romance systemwill often uncover more about companions' backstories and has the potential to unearth some unique questlines that really enrichKOTOR’s already excellent story. And in engaging with these characters more, players will naturally feel a close bond forming with their companions. This is one of the core reasons behind why characters like Bastilla and Atton are so beloved.
IfStar Wars Outlawshandled it with care, then it could easily end up capturing a similar feeling toKnights of the Old Republic’s romance system, allowing its characters to feel more complex and realistic. Additionally,Star Wars Outlaws' narrative context also fits a romance system inherently well, with Kay Vess and most of her acquaintances being smooth-talking scoundrels.
The Argument Against Star Wars Outlaws Having Romance Options
But one of the biggest issues preventingStar Wars Outlawsfrom having any romance options is thatStar Wars Outlawswill feature a canon narrative. And with a canon narrative, it’s much harder forStar Wars Outlawsto introduce any kind of significant player-choice, as then it’s unclear what decisions are actually the canon ones. Naturally, this extends to any significant romance options.
Another big argument for whyStar Wars Outlawsshouldn’t feature romance options is that this game is Kay Vess' story first and foremost, and she deserves the entire spotlight to herself. Female protagonists are, thankfully, becoming much more common inStar Wars, and the best stories featuring a female lead are those where they don’t share the spotlight with a love interest.Rogue Oneworked so well because Jyn and Cassian didn’t get together at the end, andRise of Skywalker’s final moments were ruined with the forced inclusion ofa romantic subplot between Rey and Kylo.Star Wars Outlawshas the perfect opportunity to belong to the former camp, and has the potential to make Kay Vess an incredibly compelling character without resorting to romantic narrative beats.
Star Wars Outlawsreleases in 2024 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
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