Julian Gerighty, the creative director for Star Wars Outlaws, has discussed how Ubisoft Massive has intentionally moved away from the gameplay style of their previous title, The Division. Gerighty noted that The Division’s cover-based shooting mechanics, which focus on a precise and rhythmic combat style, were not suited for the new game’s vision.
For Star Wars Outlaws, the design team aimed to create a more fluid and dynamic gameplay experience. Gerighty explained that the goal was to embody the essence of a resourceful underdog, which required a departure from the sharp, staccato rhythm of The Division. This shift involved reimagining animation, weapon selection, and controls to foster a smoother and more adaptable gameplay environment.
A notable feature in Star Wars Outlaws is the character Kay Vess’s blaster, which can be customized with various modules. Gerighty highlighted that players can pick up heavy weapons during battles but must quickly adapt as they exhaust their ammunition. This design choice promotes a more flexible and flowing approach to combat.
In designing Star Wars Outlaws’ open world, Gerighty drew considerable inspiration from Ghost of Tsushima, considering it a major reference. He also looked to Assassin’s Creed Odyssey for additional guidance, benefiting from direct communication with its developers to shape the game’s expansive world.
The development of Star Wars Outlaws represents a deliberate shift from The Division’s established mechanics. By focusing on fluidity and adaptability and drawing from successful open-world games like Ghost of Tsushima and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, Ubisoft Massive aims to offer a distinctive and engaging experience tailored to the new game’s setting and character.
