A Switch 2 version of this graphically intense game, which relies heavily on ray-traced lighting for its visual appeal on platforms like PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Windows PC, will significantly enhance the console’s reputation. This move underscores Nintendo’s commitment to positioning the Switch 2 as a suitable platform for AAA third-party game ports—a feat that was initially challenging for the original Switch due to its limited hardware power.
We’ll have to wait and see how well games such as Star Wars Outlaws and Cyberpunk 2077 perform on the Switch 2 in terms of visuals and gameplay. In a sneak peek video released last Friday, the game was seen running at 30 frames per second, aligning with the quality mode frame rate on PS5 and Xbox Series X.
The Switch 2 version of Star Wars Outlaws will release nearly a year after its initial debut in late August 2024. With the recent announcement of the Switch 2 port, Ubisoft also launched a demo for the game on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X. Players can now explore a Tatooine-based segment of Star Wars Outlaws that includes activities like space dogfights, encounters with groups like the Hutt Cartel and Tusken Raiders, a visit to Mos Eisley, and playing the card game Kessel Sabacc. However, the demo is time-limited to three hours, and progress will not carry over to the full game.
It’s somewhat surprising that Ubisoft would release a demo for Star Wars Outlaws more than seven months after its launch, but this decision could be influenced by several factors. According to Ubisoft’s February announcement during an investor call for its third-quarter 2024-2025 fiscal year earnings, the game had not met sales expectations. Introducing a demo could be a strategy to attract new players.
Furthermore, this timing might be ideal for promoting Star Wars Outlaws. At the Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025, Ubisoft unveiled a trailer for A Pirate’s Fortune, the game’s second story expansion, set to launch on May 15. This add-on continues the narrative of Kay Vess and her charming companion, Nix, alongside the notorious space pirate Hondo Ohnaka, familiar to fans from The Clone Wars animated series. As per Ubisoft, players can expect the following:
- Embark on a mysterious adventure with Kay and Nix to discover true leadership in the Khepi system.
- Partner with the legendary pirate Hondo Ohnaka to confront Stinger Tash and her Rokana Raiders, as you infiltrate the Khepi Tomb to reveal hidden secrets and treasures.
- Encounter the Miyuki Trade League, who will offer new rewards to Trailblazers in exchange for smuggling risky goods across the galaxy.
For those who’ve already experienced Star Wars Outlaws, revisiting the game might be worthwhile. After its lukewarm initial reception, Massive Entertainment has implemented several major updates, including significant improvements to stealth mechanics. In a December reevaluation after these updates, Luke Plunkett of Aftermath dubbed the game "markedly improved" and expressed that it comes "pretty close" to being "maybe the most Star Wars game ever made."
