Star Wars Outlaws Just Fixed Its Biggest Problem, and Players Are Loving It!

Star Wars Outlaws, Ubisoft’s ambitious open-world entry into the galaxy far, far away, is on a path to redemption. Following mixed reactions at launch, largely due to its controversial forced stealth mechanics, the developers are stepping up with Title Update 1.4. This update promises to overhaul how players engage with missions, shifting the focus toward player choice and seamless gameplay.

Why Was Forced Stealth an Issue?

At launch, the game’s reliance on forced stealth felt outdated and restrictive in the context of an open-world experience. Stealth mechanics are fine when optional, but when paired with abrupt failure states, they often disrupt the pacing and immersion. Fans wanted to feel like cunning rogues in the Star Wars universe, but instead, they felt constrained by poorly implemented design choices.

The backlash was loud enough for Ubisoft to take notice, and Title Update 1.4 is their answer to those critiques.

What’s Changing with Title Update 1.4?

1. No More Forced Stealth

One of the players’ biggest complaints was being boxed into stealth missions where a single slip-up meant instant failure and a frustrating reset to the last checkpoint. Title Update 1.4 completely reimagines this approach.

According to Drew Rechner, the game’s creative director:

“Our first step in expanding player choice is removing forced stealth from almost all quest objectives. This doesn’t mean that sneaking is no longer a viable or even preferable option, but the objective won’t fail if you’re caught. Instead, you’ll transition into combat.”

Outlaws! New transmission incoming from our development team – Our Creative Director, Drew Rechner, dives into the evolution of player choice, driven by your feedback!
🔗 https://t.co/ow2mApSZ0e pic.twitter.com/3rGJ7P6vJA

— Star Wars Outlaws (@StarWarsOutlaws) November 20, 2024

This means you can now decide how to approach missions:

• Go full stealth: Stick to the shadows and quietly take down enemies.
• All Guns blazing: Enter combat with no hesitation.
• Mix it Up: Sneak until discovered, then fight your way out.

This flexibility allows players to adapt missions to their preferred playstyle, making gameplay more dynamic and less frustrating.

2. Combat Comes to Syndicate Districts

Previously, syndicate districts were locked into stealth-only gameplay. Now, these areas are open to combat, allowing players to battle enemies head-on within these dangerous zones. This change is likely to make exploration more dynamic and rewarding for those who favour action-packed gameplay.

3. Seamless Stealth-Combat Transitions

Unlike the rigid structure of earlier missions, the update ensures that players caught while sneaking won’t face abrupt mission failures. Instead, the game seamlessly transitions into combat, maintaining the flow of gameplay without the frustration of sudden resets. This change reflects a broader commitment to making Star Wars Outlaws more accessible and less punishing.

What Else Comes with the Update?

First DLC Pack: Wild Card

Launching alongside the update is Wild Card, the game’s first DLC pack. While details are still sparse, fans can expect additional content that expands on the base game’s story and mechanics. If the update successfully revitalizes core gameplay, the DLC could be a great way to re-engage players who might have shelved the game.

Debut on Steam

For PC gamers, this patch coincides with Star Wars Outlaws making its debut on Steam. The timing couldn’t be better, as the update ensures that new players will experience a vastly improved version of the game right from the start.

The Road to Redemption

This update isn’t just about removing stealth—it’s a broader acknowledgement of missteps and a promise to improve. The changes reflect Ubisoft’s willingness to listen to feedback and adapt the game based on player expectations.

Combined with earlier combat adjustments, Star Wars Outlaws is steadily transforming into the game fans wanted at launch. For those who loved the game despite its flaws, this update provides validation. For sceptics, it’s a reason to give the game another shot.

What Players Can Expect Moving Forward

Ubisoft’s decision to make these fundamental changes shortly after launch suggests they’re invested in Star Wars Outlaws for the long term. If Title Update 1.4 delivers on its promises, the game might even find a second life as a fan-favourite in the Star Wars gaming universe.

As Drew Rechner aptly puts it:

“Ultimately, you’ll have the choice to tackle missions however you want. We’re just making sure you have the tools and freedom to do so.”