In the latest addition to the expansive Star Wars gaming universe, Star Wars Outlaws is breaking from tradition in how it handles player interactions with non-playable characters (NPCs). While many gamers anticipated that Outlaws would adopt a formula similar to other Ubisoft open-world games, such as Far Cry and Assassin’s Creed, the game has managed to carve out its own identity. One significant aspect where Star Wars Outlaws sets itself apart is in its treatment of friendly NPCs, a feature that many expected to align more closely with games like Grand Theft Auto.

No Killing or Robbing Friendly NPCs: A Departure from Tradition

One of the most surprising revelations about Star Wars Outlaws is the inability to harm or steal from friendly NPCs. This design choice is particularly noteworthy considering the game’s Grand Theft Auto-esque Wanted system, which triggers when the player engages in criminal activities. However, despite this similarity, the game strictly limits interactions with NPCs who are not hostile.

This was confirmed by YouTuber JorRaptor, who shared his insights after spending four hours playing the game. According to JorRaptor, and corroborated by reports from other players, the game imposes clear boundaries on how Kay Vess, the protagonist, can interact with the world around her. Unlike characters such as Niko Bellic or Trevor Phillips from GTA, who can engage in a wide array of criminal activities, Kay Vess is restricted from taking actions that would harm friendly NPCs. This includes both lethal actions and theft, setting Star Wars Outlaws apart from the more chaotic interactions seen in other open-world titles.

A Friendlier Approach to NPC Interaction

This design decision aligns with the overall tone and theme of Star Wars Outlaws. The game is described as being “much more friendly,” which likely reflects its broader target audience and the Star Wars franchise’s reputation for balancing dark themes with a more accessible and heroic narrative. Kay Vess, while being a character who operates on the fringes of legality, is not portrayed as a ruthless or malevolent figure. Instead, her interactions are more measured, with the game’s mechanics reinforcing her role as a nuanced character within the Star Wars universe.

Limitations on NPC Interaction and Its Implications

The restriction on harming friendly NPCs does, however, introduce some limitations in how players can interact with the game world. In many open-world games, the ability to interact with any NPC, regardless of their role, is a key feature. Whether it’s for completing side quests, gathering resources, or simply causing mayhem, NPCs are often integral to the player’s experience. In Star Wars Outlaws, this aspect is more controlled. Friendly NPCs are off-limits for attacks or theft, which may lead to a more structured and less chaotic gameplay experience compared to other titles in the genre.

Interestingly, while the game restricts harmful interactions with friendly NPCs, players still retain the ability to engage with hostile factions. This dual approach allows for some degree of freedom while maintaining the overall tone of the game. Players can choose to attack or steal from enemy NPCs, providing a contrast to the restrictions imposed on interactions with non-hostile characters. The dynamic nature of faction relationships in the game could also influence these interactions, though it remains unclear how far these mechanics will extend once alliances shift.

Final Thoughts

Star Wars Outlaws takes a thoughtful approach to the open-world gaming formula, particularly in how it handles NPC interactions. By preventing players from killing or robbing friendly NPCs, the game establishes a distinct identity within the crowded field of open-world titles. This decision not only aligns with the thematic elements of the Star Wars franchise but also encourages players to engage with the game world in a way that is both immersive and respectful of the narrative’s boundaries.

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