In a recent shareholder meeting, Ubisoft's CEO Yves Guillemot took a bold step by attributing the lackluster sales of 'Star Wars Outlaws' to the current struggles of the Star Wars franchise. He noted that the brand is "in a bit of choppy waters," suggesting this as a key factor behind the game's failure to meet expectations.

While Guillemot didn't disclose specific sales targets, insider reports revealed that 'Outlaws' managed to sell only 1 million copies in its first month—a figure he termed "softer than expected." This raises the question: What went wrong?

Acknowledging its imperfections, Guillemot admitted that 'Outlaws' had some "items that still needed to be polished" at launch. He claimed that they had been addressed early on, yet these issues still affected the game's reception and sales.

However, gamers and critics alike continue to voice their concerns about 'Outlaws.' Many have pointed out its poor optimization, the hassle of mandatory Ubisoft Connect links, and the unwelcome presence of Denuvo protection. In addition, players have criticized the uninspiring game world, lackluster story, and overall character design. Some argue that the game fails to capture the true spirit of being an "outlaw," a theme that should be central to its narrative.

The gaming community largely remains unconvinced by Guillemot's reasoning. While it's undeniable that Disney's stewardship has led to a decline in Star Wars' cultural relevance since their acquisition in the mid-2010s, fans feel that this isn't the primary reason for the game's poor performance. The cancellation of projects like 'The Acolyte' due to disappointing viewership adds to this growing sentiment, prompting a nostalgic reflection on a time when Star Wars was thriving and widely adored.

In summary, while Ubisoft's lack of polish and misalignment with fan expectations contributed to 'Outlaws' sales struggles, many believe the broader issues with the Star Wars brand play a significant role in its decline. Fans are left wondering: can the franchise reclaim its former glory or is it too late?