Ubisoft, the French gaming giant, is facing a tough time as its shares continue to slide, driven by the lukewarm reception of Star Wars: Outlaws. Released just last Friday, the game was one of Ubisoft’s major bets for 2024, but it didn’t quite hit the mark. Despite generally positive reviews from critics, players weren’t as impressed, leading to a “generally unfavorable” user rating of 4.9 out of 10 on Metacritic. This has been a significant blow to Ubisoft, whose stock has already lost over 30% of its value since the start of the year. Why the Drop in Ubisoft’s Stock? As of September 3rd, Ubisoft’s stock had dropped by 2.4%, reaching its lowest level since 2015. This decline is attributed to the disappointing performance of Star Wars: Outlaws and the underwhelming reception of another recent release, Xdefiant. The latter, a free-to-play shooter, initially generated buzz but quickly saw a steep…
Author: Soeren Kamper
Star Wars: Ahsoka Season 2 – What to Expect and When
Fans of Star Wars have been eagerly anticipating news about the future of Ahsoka, and it looks like the second season is indeed on the horizon. However, don’t hold your breath just yet—season 2 of Star Wars: Ahsoka is confirmed, but it won’t be gracing our screens until 2026. Let’s dive into what we know so far about Ahsoka season 2, its release date, and how it ties into the larger Star Wars universe, particularly with the upcoming The Mandalorian & Grogu movie. Ahsoka Season 2: What We Know So Far The first season of Star Wars: Ahsoka, which premiered on Disney+ in 2023, left fans with a lot of unanswered questions and unresolved storylines. The return of Grand Admiral Thrawn, a fan-favorite villain from the expanded universe, set the stage for an epic showdown. But ever since the season finale, fans have been left in the dark about when…
Upcoming Star Wars Books & Comics for September 2024: New Adventures Await
September 2024 is shaping up to be a transitional yet exciting month for Star Wars fans, with a variety of new books and comics hitting the shelves. As we anticipate the big comic events kicking off in October, September offers plenty to keep us busy, including new High Republic adventures and the conclusion of two mainline Star Wars comic titles. Whether you’re into epic tales of the Sith or heartwarming young Jedi adventures, there’s something for everyone this month. September 3, 2024 Star Wars Vol. 8: The Sith and the Skywalker by Charles Soule (Trade Paperback) Charles Soule delivers another thrilling installment in the ongoing Star Wars saga. In Volume 8, the stakes are higher than ever as the Sith and Skywalkers clash in an epic battle that will change the galaxy forever. Young Jedi Adventures: Snowy Mountain Rescue by Golden Books (Young-reader Book) Perfect for young readers, this adventure…
Boost Star Wars Outlaws Performance: Turn Off Nvidia RTX Direct Lighting
Star Wars Outlaws is a visually stunning next-gen game, but its demanding graphics can push even the most powerful gaming PCs to their limits. One setting in particular, Nvidia RTX Direct Lighting, has a massive impact on performance, even on top-tier GPUs like the RTX 4080. Why You Should Turn Off RTX Direct Lighting Nvidia RTX Direct Lighting significantly reduces frame rates, often by up to 50%. This setting replaces all lighting and shadows with fully ray-traced versions, which, while visually impressive, can lead to severe performance drops and increased frame time inconsistency. In testing, enabling RTX Direct Lighting on an RTX 4080 dropped frame rates from 120 FPS to the low 70s—a noticeable hit, especially if you’re gaming on a high-refresh-rate monitor. Additionally, pairing RTX Direct Lighting with frame generation can introduce issues like frame skipping and hitches, particularly when traversing open-world areas. While the enhanced lighting and shadows…
The Curious Case of Star Wars Criticism: From George Lucas’s Prequels to Disney’s Sequels
A Long Time Ago in a Galaxy… Star Wars has always been more than just a movie franchise; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has inspired generations of fans. However, it’s also been a lightning rod for criticism, especially when it comes to the infamous prequels by George Lucas and the controversial sequels produced under Disney. But what’s fascinating is how the tides of opinion have changed over time, with both eras experiencing shifting fan sentiments. The Prequel Trilogy: A Story of Redemption When George Lucas released The Phantom Menace in 1999, it was like watching your favorite sports team fumble the ball at the Super Bowl. The excitement quickly turned to dismay as fans encountered wooden dialogue, excessive CGI, and, worst of all, the despised Jar Jar Binks. For years, the prequels were ridiculed, often serving as the butt of jokes among the Star Wars faithful. But then something strange…
SWTOR Class Tier List: A Comprehensive Guide for fall 2024
Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) has captivated MMO fans for over a decade, offering rich storylines, exciting PvE encounters, and competitive PvP modes. Choosing the right class can make a significant difference in how you experience the game. In 2024, classes are categorized into various tiers based on their performance in both PvE and PvP environments. In this article, we will explore the current class tier list, offering insights into which classes are dominating and why. S-Tier Classes: The Best of the Best S-Tier classes represent the pinnacle of SWTOR performance in both PvE and PvP. These classes offer exceptional damage, survivability, or utility, making them valuable assets in any group. A-Tier Classes: Powerful and Reliable A-Tier classes are slightly below the S-Tier but still perform exceptionally well. They offer great utility and solid performance in both PvE and PvP scenarios. B-Tier Classes: Solid, but Niche B-Tier classes are…
Star Wars Outlaws: Fathier Racing Explained
Ever wanted to dive into the seedy underworld of the Outer Rim? Well, in Star Wars Outlaws, Fathier Racing is your ticket! It’s the galaxy’s version of horse racing, where betting is a way of life and earning some extra Credits can be as simple as picking the right Fathier. But if you’re looking to make a surefire bet, you might want to consider a fixed race. Let’s break down how Fathier Racing works and how you can tilt the odds in your favor. What is Fathier Racing? Fathier Racing is an in-game betting sport in Star Wars Outlaws. When you’re exploring the vast universe, keep an eye out for a small Fathier icon on your map—this marks the location of a Fathier Racing event. Once there, you’ll find a holotable displaying the upcoming race. Interact with the console to access the Fathier Racing main menu. The Fathier Racing Menu…
SWTOR September 2024 In-Game Events: The All Worlds Ultimate Swoop Rally
September 2024 in Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) brings the thrilling All Worlds Ultimate Swoop Rally event, a must-see for all adrenaline junkies and swoop racing fans. Taking place from September 17th to September 23rd, this event features high-speed races across Dantooine, Tatooine, and Onderon, where the galaxy’s top swoop gangs—Horizon’s Razor, the Pit Screamers, and the Blatant Beks—compete for glory. What to Expect from the All Worlds Ultimate Swoop Rally The All Worlds Ultimate Swoop Rally is a spectacle of speed, skill, and style. This event invites players level 20 and above to participate in exhilarating swoop races. The event isn’t just about winning races but also about showing off piloting prowess and daring stunts. Fans across the galaxy flock to these races, eager to take their minds off the brewing conflicts and enjoy the electrifying atmosphere. Featured Swoop Gangs Three major swoop gangs are at the heart…
Kit Reveal: Ezra Bridger (Exile) in Star Wars Galaxy of Heroes
The Star Wars Galaxy of Heroes community is abuzz with the latest kit reveal for Ezra Bridger (Exile), also known as Captain on the Bridger. This new version of Ezra introduces a dynamic and strategic playstyle, especially suited for Phoenix and Light Side teams. Below, we’ll break down Ezra’s abilities and discuss how they can be best utilized in your squad. Ezra Bridger (Exile) Overview Ezra Bridger returns as a formidable character in his Exile form, reflecting his journey and growth after the events of Star Wars Rebels. His kit emphasizes support, survival, and strategic debuffing, making him an essential addition to any Phoenix or Jedi-focused team. Abilities Breakdown 1. Basic Ability: Fugitive’s Defense Ezra’s basic attack, Fugitive’s Defense, is deceptively simple yet highly effective. It deals physical damage to the target enemy and inflicts Speed Down for three turns. If Ezra lands a critical hit, he and a random…
How to Handle Fall Damage in Star Wars Outlaws: A Quick Guide
If you’re anything like me, you love taking shortcuts in RPGs, whether that means jumping off ledges or dropping down cliffs. But in Star Wars Outlaws, the fall damage is a bit… well, let’s just say it’s a little too realistic. Even small drops can take a significant chunk out of your health, which can quickly get annoying when you’re low on bacta vials and don’t want to waste them. Sure, you could adjust your playstyle and carefully descend every hill, but where’s the fun in that? Instead, let me introduce you to a nifty little trick that’ll have you fearlessly leaping from heights once more. The Tooka Paw Charm: Your New Best Friend The Tooka Paw minor charm is the answer to your fall damage woes. This handy accessory dramatically reduces fall damage to the point where it’s almost negligible—unless you take a leap of faith off a skyscraper,…
Mastering the Art of Cheating in Kessel Sabacc: Star Wars Outlaws Guide
In the expansive, open-world universe of Star Wars Outlaws, your journey is filled with dangerous explorations, bounty missions from the galaxy’s most notorious crime syndicates, and exhilarating dogfights. But amidst all the action, there’s a chance to sit down, catch your breath, and maybe make a few extra credits—or lose them—in a game of Kessel Sabacc. Sabacc is the galaxy’s favorite card game, a thrilling blend of blackjack and poker with high stakes and even higher risks. But what if luck isn’t on your side? Well, sometimes, a little underhanded behavior is necessary, especially when you’ve got a furry friend to help. Let’s dive into the shady world of cheating at Kessel Sabacc in Star Wars Outlaws. The High-Stakes World of Kessel Sabacc Before we get to the sneaky stuff, let’s talk about what makes Kessel Sabacc so enticing. As a minigame in Star Wars Outlaws, Kessel Sabacc isn’t just…
Star Wars Outlaws: How To Make Nix Happy
One of the most delightful aspects of Star Wars Outlaws is Kay’s loyal companion, Nix. This charming animal sidekick is more than just a cute presence—he plays a crucial role in helping you navigate the challenges of the galaxy. However, to unlock certain abilities, like the Treasure Hunter skill, you’ll need to keep Nix happy. The game isn’t always clear on how to do this, but there are several effective methods that players have discovered. The Importance of Nix Nix isn’t just a passive companion; he actively contributes to your adventures. Whether you’re exploring new planets or engaging in tight situations, Nix has your back. Given his importance, it’s only fair to keep him happy as you journey together across the galaxy. A happy Nix not only boosts your experience but also unlocks special abilities that can make your gameplay smoother and more enjoyable. How To Make Nix Happy While…
Star Wars Outlaws: A VRAM-Hungry Beast at 4K Resolution
Ubisoft’s much-anticipated Star Wars Outlaws, developed by Massive Entertainment, is finally making its debut on August 30. As reviews start pouring in, including our own, one thing is abundantly clear: while the game’s visuals are stunning, it comes with some significant technical challenges, particularly for PC gamers. If you’re planning to dive into this expansive galaxy, be warned: Star Wars Outlaws is a VRAM-hungry beast, especially at 4K resolution. Let’s explore what this means for you and your gaming rig. The VRAM Conundrum: 20GB and Beyond at 4K One of the standout findings from our testing was the game’s astonishing VRAM consumption. At 4K resolution, Star Wars Outlaws can gobble up over 20GB of VRAM. Yes, you read that right — 20GB! For those with top-tier GPUs like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090, which boasts 24GB of memory, this is still within playable limits, but it raises serious questions about…
Credits Made Easy: A Guide to Getting Rich Quickly in Star Wars Outlaws
In the vast universe of Star Wars Outlaws, Credits are the lifeblood of your adventures. Whether you’re upgrading your speeder, purchasing new gear, or bribing your way out of sticky situations, having a hefty stack of Credits is crucial. So, how do you make Credits fast in Star Wars Outlaws? Here’s your ultimate guide to becoming the wealthiest outlaw in the galaxy. Robbing Syndicate Vaults: High-Risk, High-Reward One of the most lucrative ways to make fast Credits in Star Wars Outlaws is by robbing the syndicate vaults. Each of the three major syndicates—Crimson Dawn, Pyke Syndicate, and the Zerek Besh—has a hidden vault within their territories. These vaults are filled with 5,000 Credits each, plus exclusive speeder paint schemes. How to Rob the Vaults: A pro tip is to improve your reputation with the syndicate you plan to rob. A ‘Good’ reputation will grant you easier access to their compounds…
Mastering the Experts and Abilities in Star Wars Outlaws: A Comprehensive Guide
In Star Wars Outlaws, you’ll cross paths with numerous characters, each offering unique abilities to enhance your gameplay. These experts, scattered across various planets, bring skills that can turn the tide in your favor—whether it’s hacking, melee combat, or boosting your ship’s capabilities. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to unlock all the experts and abilities in Star Wars Outlaws and what makes each one essential for your adventure. How to Unlock All Experts and Abilities in Star Wars Outlaws Unlocking experts and their abilities is crucial for expanding your skill set in Star Wars Outlaws. As you progress through the game, you’ll encounter these characters during various quests. However, since the game allows you to explore multiple planets after leaving Toshara, the order in which you meet these experts may vary. Here’s a quick tip: Keep an eye on the “Abilities” menu, where all your recruited experts…
Star Wars Outlaws review – Simple Gameplay, Grand Experience
Ah, Star Wars: Outlaws. The name alone evokes a flurry of emotions for any fan of that galaxy far, far away. It’s the latest offering from Massive Entertainment, and let me tell you—people are all over the place with their opinions. You’ve probably seen a slew of reviews out there, dissecting the game like it’s a fresh specimen under a microscope, pointing out the simplicity of its gameplay as though it were the mark of the Sith. But here I am, sitting comfortably in my speeder bike, to tell you that while those criticisms aren’t entirely wrong, they might be missing the bigger picture. The Good, The Bad, and the Imperials So, what’s the deal with Star Wars: Outlaws? Imagine walking into a Star Wars-themed restaurant. The menu looks good, the decor is on point, and you’re humming the Imperial March in your head. But then, the waiter comes over…
Keanu Reeves Almost Cast in The Acolyte: What Could Have Been
The Acolyte, the upcoming Star Wars series, reportedly came close to featuring Hollywood icon Keanu Reeves in a major role. According to film insider Jeff Sneider, Reeves was considered for the role of Jedi Master Sol, which eventually went to Squid Game star Lee Jung-jae. However, scheduling conflicts with Reeves’ commitments to the John Wick spinoff Ballerina prevented the casting from materializing. Reeves was reportedly eager to join the project, especially since it would have reunited him with his Matrix co-star Carrie-Anne Moss, who also appeared in The Acolyte. Despite missing out on this opportunity, insiders suggest that Reeves may still be involved in the Star Wars universe in the future. The Controversy and Cancellation The show faced controversy when Moss’ character was killed off early, despite her being heavily featured in the marketing materials. Additionally, The Acolyte will not see a second season, as it was canceled due to…
Faction Lore: The Pyke Syndicate
The Pyke Syndicate, often referred to simply as “The Pykes,” is one of the most notorious crime organizations in the Star Wars universe. Known for their ruthless spice trade and deep connections within the galaxy’s criminal underworld, the Pyke Syndicate has played a significant role across both the “Legends” timeline and the Disney canon. Let’s explore the history, influence, and evolution of this infamous organization. Introduction: Unveiling the Pyke Syndicate—The Galaxy’s Most Notorious Crime Family The Pyke Syndicate stands as one of the most powerful and feared criminal organizations in the Star Wars galaxy, navigating through eras of turmoil with a combination of cunning, strategic alliances, and sheer ruthlessness. Whether in the “Legends” timeline or Disney canon, the Pykes have consistently proven their ability to adapt, survive, and thrive in the ever-changing galactic landscape. Chapter 1: The Origins and Rise of the Pyke Syndicate (Legends) We begin by exploring the…
The Fight Against Planned Obsolescence in Star Wars: Outlaws
As we eagerly await the release of Star Wars: Outlaws, a petition has emerged, shining a spotlight on an issue that’s been a thorn in gamers’ sides for years: planned obsolescence in the gaming industry. This petition, titled “Stop Destroying Videogames,” is gaining traction as it aims to challenge the increasingly common practice of requiring always-online connections, even for physical copies of games like Star Wars: Outlaws. What’s the Big Deal with Planned Obsolescence? For those not in the loop, planned obsolescence is when companies design products—like our beloved video games—with an expiration date. In the gaming world, this often means that once the servers for a game go down, the game itself becomes unplayable. It’s like buying a car that stops working just because the manufacturer decided to close the dealership. Not cool, right? With the upcoming Star Wars: Outlaws slated to be one of Ubisoft’s flagship titles, the…
Know your Lore: Grand Admiral Thrawn
When it comes to iconic Star Wars villains, Grand Admiral Thrawn stands out as one of the most complex and intriguing characters ever created. Known for his cold, calculating mind and unparalleled strategic brilliance, Thrawn has captivated fans across both the “Legends” and Disney canon timelines. This article will explore Thrawn’s rich history, delving into his origins, key storylines, and his evolution from “Legends” to the official Disney canon. Introduction: Meet the Galaxy’s Most Brilliant Blue-Skinned Tactician Welcome to the fascinating world of Grand Admiral Thrawn, a character who has navigated his way from the icy homeworld of Csilla to the far reaches of the Star Wars universe, leaving a trail of awe, admiration, and a bit of terror in his wake. Whether you’re a fan of the original “Legends” stories or you’ve encountered him through Disney’s new canon, Thrawn’s tale is one of brilliance, strategy, and a touch of…
Fans Rally to Save The Acolyte with New Petition After Cancellation
The Acolyte, the ambitious Star Wars series that captivated fans with its fresh perspective and inclusive representation, has recently been canceled by Disney, leaving many fans disheartened. However, this passionate fanbase isn’t ready to let go without a fight. A new petition has emerged, urging Disney to reconsider their decision and renew the series for a second season. With the campaign in full swing, fans are taking every opportunity to make their voices heard, hoping to bring back the show they believe still has many stories left to tell. The Importance of The Acolyte to the Star Wars Community The Acolyte quickly became a standout in the Star Wars universe for several reasons. It was not just another series in a galaxy far, far away; it was a beacon for representation and diversity, welcoming fans who had long felt marginalized by the franchise. The show’s creators and actors brought a…
Star Wars: Outlaws Introduces 40fps Mode for Smoother Console Gameplay
Star Wars: Outlaws is bringing something special to console gamers: a 40fps mode. If you’re scratching your head thinking, “Wait, what’s so great about 40fps?”, let me break it down. Traditionally, console games often give you the choice between smoother performance at 60fps or crisper visuals at 30fps. But 40fps strikes a balance between the two. Thanks to modern TVs’ variable refresh rates (VRR), this mode offers a smoother experience than 30fps without the hefty performance demand of 60fps. Why 40fps? A New Sweet Spot for Console Gamers The decision to include a 40fps mode is a smart move by Ubisoft, particularly for those who want a bit more fluidity without sacrificing too much visual fidelity. On older consoles, 30fps was often the go-to for those stunning graphics, but it could feel a bit sluggish, especially if you’ve experienced 60fps. On the other hand, pushing for 60fps could mean dialing…
Star Wars: Outlaws Release Date and Early Access Details – What You Need to Know
The anticipation for Star Wars: Outlaws is reaching fever pitch as Ubisoft’s highly awaited game edges closer to its release. With its unique blend of open-world exploration, rich storytelling, and an intriguing protagonist, this game is set to offer an unforgettable journey through the Star Wars universe. However, Ubisoft has added a twist to the release with two different launch dates, thanks to its early access strategy. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your adventure with Kay and Nix. Official Release Date and Times Star Wars: Outlaws is officially set to release globally on Friday, August 30, 2024. From this date, the game will be available across multiple platforms, including PC via the Epic Games Store and the Ubisoft Store, as well as on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. For those on consoles (PS5 and Xbox), the game will be playable from 12 AM local time. This…
SWTOR: The Legacy Continues with New Music for Heta Kol and the Duel
Twelve years after its initial release, Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) continues to captivate its dedicated player base with new content, including fresh storylines, characters, and even new music. One of the latest additions to this ever-evolving MMORPG is the hauntingly epic tune “Heta Kol and the Duel,” which accompanies a significant narrative arc in the game’s current storyline. The Enduring Appeal of SWTOR When Star Wars: The Old Republic was released in December 2011, it was a groundbreaking addition to the Star Wars gaming universe. Developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts, SWTOR offered players the chance to dive into an immersive MMORPG set thousands of years before the rise of Darth Vader. It was a time when the Sith Empire and the Galactic Republic were locked in a struggle for supremacy, and players could align themselves with either side, choosing from various classes and story paths….
