The debate over the use of yellow paint to indicate interactive objects in video games has gained traction, with Ubisoft Massive’s Star Wars Outlaws presenting an interesting case. This game includes an accessibility feature where players can choose to disable the yellow paint that typically signals interactive elements within the environment.
This feature is designed to enhance immersion for those who feel that visual cues disrupt their experience, though it also presents a trade-off by making navigation potentially more challenging.
In Star Wars Outlaws, players can activate Explorer Mode to turn off the guiding yellow paint, which eliminates the visual aids that direct players to points of interest and collectibles. While this option aims to reduce the game’s overt “video-gamey” feel, it can also make it harder for players to determine which elements in the environment are interactive, possibly leading to increased frustration during exploration.
Phil Hornshaw highlights this challenge, noting that the absence of yellow paint can lead to confusion about which objects are actionable. The game’s complex environment, filled with lights and buttons, makes it difficult to discern between interactive elements and mere background details.
Hornshaw’s review suggests that while the game’s design encourages players to discover interactions on their own, the lack of clear visual cues can sometimes leave players uncertain about how to proceed.
The broader debate about yellow paint in video games revolves around its effectiveness and impact on player experience. Critics argue that it can be a clumsy signposting method that detracts from immersion, while supporters believe it makes games more accessible by providing clear guidance.
Games like Star Wars Jedi: Survivor have attempted to balance this by incorporating more subtle cues alongside the yellow paint, aiming to enhance both accessibility and immersion.
Star Wars Outlaws, scheduled for release on August 30 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, will introduce players to Kay Vess, a character who relies on intelligence and resourcefulness rather than Force abilities. This departure from the Force-centric gameplay of other Star Wars titles emphasizes the character’s cunning and adaptability in navigating a hostile galaxy, adding a fresh dynamic to the franchise.
