Ubisoft devs chat about their plans to improve Star Wars Outlaws | Ep #59
Nov 30, 2024
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Michael Higham, an IGN game reviewer known for his STALKER 2 insights, joins Frederick Thylander and Drew Rechner from Ubisoft Massive, who share plans to improve Star Wars Outlaws following its rocky launch. They discuss the importance of community feedback and revamping game mechanics to enhance player experience. Alanah Pearce adds her expertise, diving into the resurgence of handheld gaming and the evolving landscape of gaming technology. Insights on the future of franchises and player engagement make this conversation a must-listen!
Ubisoft Massive is focused on addressing fundamental issues that affected the launch of Star Wars Outlaws to enhance player experiences.
The discussion about STALKER 2 reveals diverse player perspectives, highlighting both technical and narrative elements in the game.
Alanah Pearce contributed insights into the evolving landscapes of PlayStation and Xbox handheld gaming, indicating trends and future possibilities.
Listeners were encouraged to explore a new newsletter for additional content beyond the podcast episodes and engage with the community.
The episode showcases the intricacies of game development, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between developers and the gaming community for improvement.
Deep dives
Penguin Series Review
The series centers on Oz Cobblepot, also known as the Penguin, following the events of 'The Batman.' It explores his rise to power amidst the chaos left in Gotham City after the fall of major crime syndicates. This series excels in character development, particularly with the portrayal of Sofia Falcone by Christina Meloni, enriching the narrative with complex interpersonal dynamics. The writing stands out for its sharp dialogue and engaging storytelling, making it a compelling watch for fans of the superhero genre.
Destiny Rising Experience
Destiny Rising is a mobile game set in an alternate timeline to the Destiny franchise, where players assume the roles of light bearers amidst the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse. Unlike traditional guardian gameplay, players are given fixed characters, each requiring upgrades through in-game currencies. The game has plenty of engaging mechanics and game modes, which allow exploration of the lore in new and refreshing ways. While it utilizes a gacha system, the gameplay experience is surprisingly well-crafted, showcasing the potential of mobile gaming.
The Batman's Penguin Impact
The Penguin series manages to bring a unique perspective to the DC universe, effectively building on the foundation laid by the character in 'The Batman.' Colin Farrell's portrayal conveys depth, vulnerability, and strength as he navigates the criminal underbelly of Gotham. The story delves into themes of power and revenge while maintaining a hint of dark humor throughout. With well-written dialogue and engaging characters, the show proves there is plenty of potential to continue exploring this universe.
Gladiator's Lasting Legacy
Watching Gladiator once again provides a powerful reminder of the film's artistic and emotional depth. Russell Crowe's performance, combined with Hans Zimmer's unforgettable score, creates an epic experience that resonates profoundly with viewers. The film's themes of honor, revenge, and sacrifice continue to captivate audiences, showcasing the clash between personal ambition and a higher moral calling. Gladiator remains a seminal work in cinematic history, and its impact is felt even years after its release.
Stalker 2 Insights
Stalker 2 presents a unique blend of survival horror and open-world exploration, introducing players to a post-apocalyptic universe filled with dangerous anomalies and mutated creatures. The game features compelling environmental storytelling and character-driven narratives that enhance the overall experience. Players encounter various gameplay mechanics, such as inventory management tied to survival, creating a sense of urgency and strategic decision-making. Despite some technical issues and AI shortcomings, the game's potential shines through in its immersive atmosphere and engaging mission designs.
Moana 2 Reactions
Moana 2, while not receiving universal acclaim, showcases a continuation of the beloved characters and themes from its predecessor. Though some aspects of the storytelling may seem lacking, the film's animation remains visually stunning and engaging for audiences. The music, a significant highlight in the original film, again adds to the overall experience, though it may not reach the heights of the first film's iconic soundtrack. While some may view it with skepticism, it still proves to be an entertaining family movie.
Exploring Dragon Age Origins
Dragon Age Origins invites players into a richly crafted fantasy world filled with intricate lore and engaging characters. As players navigate the story, they encounter moral choices that shape their character's journey and determine the fate of the world. The game's intricacies, from its deep RPG mechanics to the complex relationships between characters, provide an absorbing experience. It stands out not only for its narrative depth but also for its emotional impact, making it a memorable title for RPG fans.
The Appeal of Gacha Mechanics
The use of gacha mechanics in games represents a significant trend in the gaming industry, particularly for mobile titles. While these systems can lead to monetization strategies that entice players, they often detract from the overall gaming experience. Many gamers find themselves conflicted by the balance of engaging gameplay versus in-game purchases and chance mechanics. This discourse highlights the need for a thoughtful approach to game design, ensuring a rewarding experience that prioritizes player engagement over profit margins.
The Family Dynamic in True Crime Stories
The impact of sensationalized media narratives in true crime stories can significantly affect families involved in traumatic events. Documentaries like those covering the John Benet Ramsey case reveal the often brutal public scrutiny faced by those left behind. These portrayals can create a chilling atmosphere, revealing vulnerabilities while grappling with sensationalism. Examining these dynamics allows for a deeper understanding of the human experience within the realities of crime and its aftermath.
Exploring Super Mario Budgets
Super Mario remains a stronghold in the gaming zeitgeist, its brand continuing to flourish across various media avenues. The franchise's ability to maintain relevance, despite its simple premise, demonstrates the power of nostalgia and brand attachment. The vivid characters and whimsy of the Mario universe lend themselves seamlessly to exploration in theme parks, merchandise, and cross-platform collaborations. As audiences engage with the franchise in new ways, it reflects on the ongoing journey of a beloved gaming icon.
Head to https://buyraycon.com/friends to get up to 25% off everything for the ultimate holiday gift. Thanks to Raycon for sponsoring FPS!
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This week we're joined by a number of special guests. Michael Higham from IGN joins us to talk through STALKER 2. We've all played it and all have wildly different takes on it (for both technical and non-technical reasons). After that we're joined by Frederick Thylander and Drew Rechner of Ubisoft Massive, who right now are leading up efforts fix some of the core issues that plagued Star Wars Outlaws at launch. Finally, Alanah Pearce joins us to chat about PlayStation and Xbox handhelds, as well as what we've all been playing this past two weeks.
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Timestamps
00:00 Intro
05:02 STALKER 2
43:15 Ad - Raycon
45:47 User Question
53:34 Star Wars Outlaws Interview
01:22:44 PlayStation and Xbox handhelds
01:38:58 User Question
01:47:54 What we've played
02:15:50 Show and Tell
02:31:20 Wrap up
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If you wanna check out our brand new newsletter, you can do so here: https://friendspersecond.substack.com/
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Let's meet our hosts!
- Jake Baldino (aka the Before You Buy Guy) is pretty much the most watched reviewer on YouTube across both Gameranx and his personal channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/JakeBaldino). If you're obsessed with Delorians, The Mummy and Pizza you can discuss that stuff with him directly over on Twitter: @JakeBaldino
- Lucy James is a Senior Producer at Gamespot and a Creative Producer at Giant Bomb. She's actually, like, experienced and credentialed and has real life skills and stuff, while the rest of the gang would be funemployed if the YT algorithm didn't kiss them for random, inexplicable reasons.
- Skill Up used to work at McDonalds but he got fired for skimming too many chicken nuggets. He says he regrets it since he hasn't had a better job since.
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