Today marks the launch of the first story pack for “Star Wars Outlaws” aptly named “Wild Card” on Xbox Series X|S. In this thrilling installment, players are plunged into the galactic heart of a high-stakes Kessel Sabacc game, set aboard the casino cruiser Morenia. As you explore this unique gaming environment, you’ll quickly discover that the slightly larger Sabacc table comes with its own set of quirky rules, differing from those found elsewhere in the universe. To make the most out of your experience, you might want to start strategizing now.
“Wild Card” requires players to have already completed some key missions, including the Gunsmith quest and The High Roller quest featuring the renowned Lando Calrissian. Within this expansion, you’ll step into the shoes of Kay Vess, tasked by Governor Thorden from Toshara to infiltrate the opulent Kessel Sabacc game, hunting for a legendary prize. Yet, as in every good space opera, there’s more below the surface as another secret game of wits unfolds in the underworld. But first, gaining entry into this exclusive game will require Kay to use her charm and cunning to locate her way in.
At its core, the Kessel Sabacc gameplay still revolves around outwitting opponents with blood and sand cards, aiming for that winning hand. Things get exciting with rounds consisting of three turns each, and it’s game over once you run out of chips to draw new cards. But don’t expect it to be just like any other Sabacc game you’ve played before. The casino’s host and owner of the Morenia, Protocol Droid EY-E9, introduces game-changing house rules, notably outlawing the use of shift tokens, which are typically the go-to for players seeking to tip the odds in their favor. This rule ensures a balanced competition where everyone has a fair chance of victory.
Now, while shift tokens are out of the picture, the opportunity for some sneaky cheating still exists—if you can pull it off without getting caught. Three primary methods include using magnetic dice, employing Lando’s famous double draw trick, and spying on opponents with Nix. But in the lively atmosphere of Wild Card, Nix can’t operate as the covert helper he’s known to be. Instead, he gets a fresh role: planting cards with other players to ensure they get snagged for “cheating” by EY-E9, which could lead to their prompt ejection from the game.
Moreover, your opponents won’t just sit back quietly; they’re armed with their own cheats, adding another layer of complexity. Kay needs to keep her wits about her, listen closely to interactions, and catch rivals red-handed to nudge EY-E9 in their direction. It’s all part of the fun, ensuring a dynamic and engaging session.
Wild Card heightens the drama with more players—six in total competing at the table, challenging Kay to outplay them all. With EY-E9 overseeing everything, announcing moves, interacting with players, and sniffing out cheats, the game is more thrilling than ever.
To help sharpen your skills for this updated version of Kessel Sabacc, I caught up with Thibaut Machin, the game director at Ubisoft Paris. He kindly shared some tips on navigating the new dynamics and finding success.
Machin emphasized mastering the double draw mechanic, a skill picked up from Lando. This trick gives you that crucial chance of drawing a winning card, but don’t just discard that extra one as usual. Instead, Machin suggests pairing it with Nix’s card-planting trick. This means you hold on to a superior card and potentially get an opponent removed from the game.
Intel is your friend when navigating Morenia. By thoroughly exploring, you’ll gather vital clues about fellow players. Machin points out that these insights can illuminate the tricks competitors use, setting you up to expose their misdemeanors during play.
Building a solid reputation amongst the syndicates onboard is also crucial. Machin explained how alliances with these groups can ease Kay’s navigation of the cruiser and pave the way to her goal.
Finally, the big tip from Machin: don’t rush. The battlefield is filled with activity, making careful observation key. Avoid the temptation to immediately burn through your chips trying to improve your hand, as this game will unfold over numerous rounds. Plus, pay attention to the colorful banter and dynamics at the table; it might just give you the edge.
“Wild Card” is ready for you to dive into on Xbox Series X|S today! Keep your eye on future updates and expansions by following Star Wars Outlaws on social media and stay tuned to Xbox Wire for more thrilling adventures.
So, sharpen those strategic skills and may the odds be in your favor as you navigate the intriguing world of Star Wars Outlaws!
