The game Star Wars Outlaws by Ubisoft Massive took inspiration from the long-lost Star Wars Galaxies MMO to reconstruct Tatooine. Star Wars Galaxies, launched in 2003 by Sony Online Entertainment, was a beloved predecessor to The Old Republic. Despite its eventual shutdown in 2011, just five days before The Old Republic’s release, Star Wars Galaxies left a lasting impact on the Star Wars universe.
One of the key elements borrowed from Star Wars Galaxies was the city of Bestine. Bestine, a city with a cult-like following among Star Wars fans, originally appeared in the now-defunct MMO. In Star Wars Outlaws, Bestine is recreated in an Empire-controlled region of the Desert Valley. The developers aimed to maintain the essence of the city while introducing new elements to captivate both old and new fans of the franchise.
According to Benedikt Podlesnigg, the art and world director of Outlaws, the process of creating Bestine was both challenging and rewarding. By examining the footprint of the city in Star Wars Galaxies, the developers had to expand on the existing layout while staying true to its roots. The inclusion of familiar characters like Sona Plondu and activities like playing Sabacc with a Hutt adds layers of nostalgia for longtime fans of the Star Wars series.
Creating a Familiar yet Refreshing Experience
The goal of Star Wars Outlaws was to offer players a sense of recognition and discovery simultaneously. By incorporating elements from Star Wars Galaxies, such as the city of Bestine, the game pays homage to its predecessor while forging a new path. Podlesnigg emphasized the importance of allowing fans to recognize iconic locations and characters within the game, striking a balance between nostalgia and innovation.
Overall, the use of Star Wars Galaxies as a source of inspiration for building Tatooine in Star Wars Outlaws showcases the rich history and creativity embedded in the Star Wars universe. By revisiting the legacy of past games and incorporating them into new projects, developers can create an immersive experience that resonates with fans across generations.