Summary
Over the years, progression systems have become a core part of the video game industry. Specifically, the tried-and-true XP system has cropped up in all sorts of different titles. From RPGs and shooters to strategy games and simulation titles, this type of system seems to be used constantly. So, whenStar Wars Outlawswas announced, many assumed it would follow suit, yet that could not be further from the truth.
WhileStar Wars Outlawsmay have many genre conventions, it seems to do away with the classic leveling system entirely. Instead, Ubisoft has replaced it with a system that rewards players simply for exploring the vast galaxy. Not only does that serve as a fantastic breath of fresh air after years of the same concept, but it also makes the adventure feel far more lifelike. And because it works so well, other games may want to consider adopting similar mechanics, or at least shaking things up a bit in new ways.
Star Wars Outlaws Shakes Up Its Progression for the Better
Star Wars Outlaws Does Away With a Classic Leveling System
InStar Wars Outlaws, there are a couple of different ways for players toupgrade Kay Vess' skills. One such way is a classic workbench, where players can upgrade their blaster with an assortment of different things. If they have the required parts, they can make each blaster module stronger, which can significantly change the flow of combat. This works pretty much like other open-world or RPG weapon upgrade systems, so players should know what to expect. But the other form of progression may be a bit surprising for some.
Instead of having players grind levels,Star Wars Outlawstasks them with finding expertsthat litter the galaxy. Each of these experts are discovered via Expert Intel, where they will then have a quest for the player to work on. Upon completion, players are granted one free ability and can then see all the other abilities that this character offers. Every ability requires them to complete certain tasks, with the activities ranging in difficulty.
InStar Wars Outlaws, there are nine different experts to discover, with each one offering six different abilities to learn. Just like with most open-world games, these skills range from simple health and combat upgrades to speeder improvements and inventory space. While the skills themselves are familiar, Ubisoft has really taken the concept of acquiring them to a whole new level by attaching the upgrades to NPCs.
Outlaws' Progression System is a Breath of Fresh Air
There is nothing inherently wrong with an old school XP system, though it was the right time for a change. Video games have been using the same approach for years, and in recent times, studios like Ubisoft gained a bit of a bad reputation for how the system was handled ingames likeAssassin’s Creed Odyssey. Because of that, some players grew sick of being forced to grind for countless levels just to plunge points into a massive skill tree. Luckily, they do not have to do that withStar Wars Outlaws.
Attaching the progression system to NPCs that litter the world has made the entirety ofOutlawsfeel more lifelike. Now, players have to actually track down certain people if they want to get stronger. Additionally, those people will not just hand them the brand-new ability because they hit a certain number. Instead, gamers must actively work for their upgrades, making the entire experience far more rewarding.
Not only doesStar Wars OutlawsfinallygiveStar Warsfans the open-world gamethey have been craving, but its willingness to step away from a standard progression system is also a massive breath of fresh air. And even though one of the things that makes this system great is its uniqueness, other video game studios may want to take the concept for a spin. It does not have to be just likeOutlaws' version, but attaching upgrades to the game’s world rather than making them earnable via skill points makes for a far more engaging experience.
Star Wars Outlaws
WHERE TO PLAY
Experience the first-ever open world Star Wars game and explore distinct planets across the galaxy, both iconic and new. Risk it all as Kay Vess, an emerging scoundrel seeking freedom and the means to start a new life. Fight, steal, & outwit your way through the galaxy’s crime syndicates as you join the galaxy’s most wanted. If you’re willing to take the risk, the galaxy is full of opportunity.DISCOVER A GALAXY OF OPPORTUNITYExplore distinct planets with bustling cities and cantinas before racing across sprawling outdoor landscapes on your speeder. Each planet brings new adventures, unique challenges, and enticing rewards if you’re willing to take the risk.EXPERIENCE AN ORIGINAL SCOUNDREL STORYLive the high-stakes lifestyle of an outlaw. With Nix by your side, turn any situation to your advantage: fight with your blaster, overcome enemies with stealth and gadgets, or find the right moments to distract enemies and gain the upper hand.EMBARK ON HIGH-STAKES MISSIONSTake on high-risk, high-reward missions from the galaxy’s crime syndicates. Steal valuable goods, infiltrate secret locations, and outwit enemies as one of the galaxy’s most wanted. Every choice you make influences your ever-changing reputation.JUMP INTO THE PILOT SEATPilot your ship, The Trailblazer, as you engage in thrilling dogfights with The Empire and other foes, finding the right opportunities to chase, evade, and attack to get the upper hand.
