Ubisoft’s latest open-world adventure, Star Wars Outlaws, is drawing inspiration from some unexpected sources. While it shares the DNA of many Ubisoft open-world games, creative director Julian Gerighty has revealed that his biggest reference point for the game was not a Western or a typical space opera, but the samurai action game, Ghost of Tsushima.

Initial Impressions and Unique Influences

When our staff writer Morgan Park first previewed Star Wars Outlaws earlier this month, he noted the game’s familiar Ubisoft feel, blending various elements without any single aspect standing out. However, he found that the game’s components combined to create an enjoyable experience.

Julian Gerighty, in an interview with GamesRadar, shed light on the diverse inspirations behind Star Wars Outlaws. While Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’s “freedom of approach in a very large environment” was a significant influence, Gerighty’s admiration for Ghost of Tsushima played a crucial role in shaping the game.

Ghost of Tsushima’s Influence

Gerighty praised Ghost of Tsushima for its “purity of having a player fantasy and really leaning into it.” He appreciated how the game seamlessly integrated its story, world, and character with the gameplay, creating an immersive samurai experience in feudal Japan. This approach to creating a cohesive and engaging world resonated with Gerighty, who aimed to capture a similar essence in Star Wars Outlaws.

Lessons from Other Open-World Giants

While Ghost of Tsushima was a primary influence, Gerighty also looked to Red Dead Redemption for its treatment of the game world. He admired how Red Dead Redemption created a world that felt alive and immersive, rather than a mere checklist of activities. This philosophy of world-building guided the development of Star Wars Outlaws, ensuring that the game world feels dynamic and engaging.

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey also served as a vital reference, particularly for its large, explorative environment. Gerighty frequently consulted with members of the Odyssey development team, seeking advice on various aspects of game design, such as managing traversal distances and creating a sense of curiosity within the game world.

Crafting a “Scoundrel Fantasy”

Despite these diverse influences, Star Wars Outlaws aims to deliver a unique “scoundrel fantasy” experience. Set in the Star Wars universe, the game focuses on the adventures of a scoundrel navigating a world filled with intrigue and danger. While the game’s thematic elements differ from the samurai narrative of Ghost of Tsushima, the underlying philosophy of creating an immersive and cohesive player experience remains central.

Anticipation Builds for August Release

As the release date of August 30 approaches, anticipation for Star Wars Outlaws continues to build. Fans are eager to see how the influences of games like Ghost of Tsushima, Red Dead Redemption, and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey manifest in this new open-world adventure. With its blend of familiar mechanics and fresh inspirations, Star Wars Outlaws promises to offer a unique and engaging experience for players.

Final Thoughts

Star Wars Outlaws stands out not just for its setting in the beloved Star Wars universe, but also for its creative influences that span different genres and game styles. Julian Gerighty’s admiration for the immersive storytelling and world-building of Ghost of Tsushima, combined with lessons from other open-world giants, has shaped a game that aims to provide a rich and engaging experience. As players prepare to dive into this scoundrel’s journey, the influence of these diverse inspirations will be a key factor in the game’s success.

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