Ubisoft’s Star Wars Outlaws: A Deep Dive into Its Underperformance and Future Prospects

In a surprising turn of events, Ubisoft has openly acknowledged that their ambitious open-world game, Star Wars Outlaws, has not lived up to expectations. Despite the game receiving commendable ratings on Metacritic and positive user scores on platforms like Epic Games Store, its initial sales figures were significantly lower than anticipated. This revelation came during a financial update where Ubisoft also announced the delay of their highly anticipated title, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows. The company’s transparency about these setbacks underscores a pivotal moment for Ubisoft as they strive to recalibrate their strategies and improve their offerings.

Star Wars Outlaws, which is set to be released on Steam on November 21, had a softer than expected launch. This has prompted Ubisoft to take immediate action to address player feedback and enhance the overall gaming experience. The development teams are fully mobilized, working tirelessly to roll out updates aimed at fixing bugs, improving gameplay mechanics, and enriching the content. The goal is clear: to engage a larger audience during the upcoming holiday season and transform Star Wars Outlaws into a long-term performer. The game’s initial reception, while not disastrous, highlighted several areas needing improvement, such as repetitive combat and simple stealth mechanics.

IGN’s review of Star Wars Outlaws gave it a respectable 7/10, describing it as a fun intergalactic heist adventure with great exploration elements. However, the review also pointed out that the game was hindered by its simplistic stealth, repetitive combat, and various bugs present at launch. These issues, although not deal-breakers, have certainly impacted the game’s initial success. Ubisoft’s commitment to addressing these flaws is evident in their roadmap, which includes multiple title updates leading up to the first DLC release. This proactive approach is crucial for retaining current players and attracting new ones.

Yves Guillemot, Ubisoft’s CEO, has been vocal about the company’s need to elevate their game development standards. In light of the recent underperformance, Guillemot emphasized that simply making solid games is no longer sufficient in today’s competitive market. Gamers now expect extraordinary experiences, and Ubisoft aims to meet these expectations by consistently delivering high-quality, long-lasting games. This philosophy is reflected in their plans for future titles, including the delayed Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, which promises a dual protagonist experience with distinct gameplay styles.

The delay of Assassin’s Creed: Shadows until February 2025 is a direct response to the lessons learned from the launch of Star Wars Outlaws. Ubisoft has decided against offering a season pass for Shadows, opting instead to provide all players with equal access to the game’s content. This decision, coupled with the promise of free updates and DLCs, indicates a shift towards a more player-centric approach. By focusing on quality and player satisfaction, Ubisoft hopes to avoid the pitfalls that plagued Star Wars Outlaws and ensure a smoother launch for their future titles.

Despite the challenges, Ubisoft remains optimistic about the potential of Star Wars Outlaws. The game’s roadmap outlines a series of updates designed to address player feedback and introduce new content. The first major update, scheduled for October 3, will focus on bug fixes and improvements. Subsequent updates in October and November will enhance the game’s quality of life and update combat and stealth mechanics. The first DLC story pack, Wild Card, set to launch on November 21, will introduce new characters and a thrilling sabacc tournament against Lando Calrissian.

Ubisoft’s dedication to improving Star Wars Outlaws is evident in their willingness to engage with the community. Developers are actively participating in discussions on official forums, seeking player input on desired improvements. This level of transparency and responsiveness is a positive sign, indicating that Ubisoft is serious about making the necessary changes to elevate the game’s experience. By listening to their player base and acting on feedback, Ubisoft aims to rebuild trust and foster a loyal community around Star Wars Outlaws.

The financial impact of Star Wars Outlaws’ underperformance has been significant. Ubisoft’s stock price took a hit following the game’s launch, and the company has since revised their earnings forecast for the fiscal year. The delay of Assassin’s Creed: Shadows and the disappointing sales of Star Wars Outlaws were major factors in this revision. However, Ubisoft is taking these challenges in stride, using them as opportunities to reassess their strategies and improve their execution. The company’s commitment to a player-centric approach is a promising step towards regaining their footing in the industry.

Ubisoft’s decision to release Star Wars Outlaws on Steam marks a notable shift in their business model. Previously, Ubisoft had been hesitant to embrace Steam’s platform, but the need to reach a broader audience has prompted a change in stance. By making their games more accessible, Ubisoft hopes to attract new players and boost sales. The upcoming release on Steam, coupled with the planned updates and DLCs, is part of a broader strategy to ensure the long-term success of Star Wars Outlaws.

Looking ahead, Ubisoft’s focus is on continuous improvement and innovation. The lessons learned from Star Wars Outlaws will undoubtedly influence the development of future titles. Ubisoft’s commitment to excellence is evident in their proactive approach to addressing issues and enhancing the player experience. As they navigate these challenges, the company’s ultimate goal remains clear: to create memorable, high-quality games that resonate with players and stand the test of time.

In conclusion, the journey of Star Wars Outlaws serves as a valuable learning experience for Ubisoft. The game’s initial underperformance has sparked a series of strategic adjustments aimed at improving player satisfaction and ensuring long-term success. With a dedicated development team, a clear roadmap for updates, and a renewed focus on player feedback, Ubisoft is well-positioned to turn things around. As the gaming community watches closely, the steps taken by Ubisoft in the coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of Star Wars Outlaws and the company’s overall trajectory.

Ultimately, the story of Star Wars Outlaws is far from over. Ubisoft’s efforts to enhance the game and engage with the community demonstrate a commitment to delivering on their promises. While the road ahead may be challenging, the potential for a successful turnaround is within reach. As Ubisoft continues to refine their approach and deliver updates, players can look forward to an improved gaming experience that captures the essence of the Star Wars universe. The lessons learned from this journey will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter future for both Star Wars Outlaws and Ubisoft as a whole.