In the 1990s, long before the likes of Red Dead Redemption captured the imaginations of gamers worldwide, LucasArts introduced a groundbreaking title that would leave a lasting imprint on the first-person shooter (FPS) genre. Released in 1997, "Outlaws" marked an ambitious departure for LucasArts, a company previously synonymous with its Star Wars-themed games, as it ventured into the creation of an original Western adventure.
Transition from Star Wars to Outlaws
LucasArts was renowned for its Star Wars games, but with "Outlaws," the company sought to craft a new identity within the gaming world. To achieve this, they modified the existing Jedi game engine, previously used for "Star Wars: Dark Forces." The engine’s enhancements were tailored to optimize it for Outlaws’ unique storytelling and cinematic cutscenes. The development team also fine-tuned the INSANE animation engine, ensuring the game’s visuals were both captivating and distinctive.
The narrative of "Outlaws" was as compelling as its technical feats. Players assumed the role of James Anderson, a retired U.S. Marshal. His quiet life is shattered when bandits murder his wife and abduct his daughter. This tragic event sets Anderson on a quest for vengeance across the Wild West. The game’s storyline, rich with Western motifs, was inspired by iconic spaghetti Westerns, particularly those crafted by Sergio Leone. The villains in "Outlaws" were not mere marauders but henchmen of a corrupt railroad baron named Bob Graham, whose nefarious plans include seizing Anderson’s land for his railway project.
Crafting a Visual and Auditory Experience
One of the distinguishing features of "Outlaws" was its departure from the cold, sci-fi environments typical of LucasArts’ earlier games. Instead, the game offered warm, hand-painted backgrounds and fully animated, voice-acted cutscenes. These elements were not just artistic choices; they were instrumental in immersing players in Anderson’s world. The game opens with scenes depicting Anderson’s idyllic family life, starkly contrasting with the violence that soon follows.
Another remarkable aspect was the game’s soundtrack. Recognizing music as an integral part of the Western genre, LucasArts enlisted composer Clint Bajakian to create a fully orchestrated score, a first for FPS games of that era. Bajakian’s compositions paid homage to the late Ennio Morricone, whose work defined the sound of classic Western films. The soundtrack’s authenticity and emotional depth significantly contributed to the game’s atmosphere.
Reviving a Classic: Outlaws + Handful of Missions: Remaster
Fast forward to the present day, and "Outlaws" has been given a new lease on life with the release of "Outlaws + Handful of Missions: Remaster" by Nightdive Studios. This remastered version not only preserves the game’s iconic soundtrack in its "Vault" but also offers players access to behind-the-scenes documents and concept art. Clint Bajakian provides commentary for each of the score’s 15 tracks, offering insights into his creative process and the influences behind his compositions.
Nightdive Studios has also made it a priority to involve members of the original development team in the remastering process. Kevin Schmitt, the original level designer, shared his experiences in a special Deep Dive podcast interview. Schmitt detailed his multifaceted role in the original game’s development, from texturing levels to scripting and audio placement. This collaborative approach ensures that the remaster stays true to the spirit of the original while benefiting from modern technological advances.
Modernizing a Timeless Experience
The remastering of "Outlaws" was undertaken with a clear objective: to maintain the authenticity of the original experience. Nightdive Studios aimed to ensure that the game plays as players remember it, incorporating options to toggle between the original and updated graphics. For the first time, "Outlaws + Handful of Missions: Remaster" is available on consoles, including Xbox One and Series X|S. This adaptation includes enhanced gamepad support, a weapon selection wheel, aim assist, and rumble features.
Despite nearly three decades since its original release, "Outlaws" remains a defining entry in the Western genre. The remaster allows both longtime fans and new players to experience Anderson’s story anew. Stephen Kick, a representative from Nightdive Studios, explains the enduring appeal of "Outlaws": “Where most FPS games of its era were about shock and spectacle, Outlaws told a simple, emotional story underscored by a music composition that treated the material with genuine gravity. There simply weren’t many Western-themed games during this time.”
Looking to the Future
The possibility of a physical edition of "Outlaws + Handful of Missions: Remaster" is also on the horizon. According to Nightdive, there is a strong demand from fans for physical copies, which are seen as important for game preservation. The studio acknowledges this desire and hopes to release physical editions, including game cartridges, in the future.
For those eager to dive into the world of "Outlaws" right away, the remaster is available digitally on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. This revival not only pays homage to the original but also introduces the timeless classic to a new generation of gamers.
To sum up, "Outlaws" was a pioneering game that blended engaging storytelling, innovative technology, and a captivating soundtrack to create a unique Western gaming experience. With the remastered version, both old and new fans can appreciate the game’s legacy and its impact on the FPS genre. Whether you’re revisiting the game or experiencing it for the first time, "Outlaws + Handful of Missions: Remaster" offers a journey into the Wild West that is as thrilling today as it was over two decades ago.
For further details, you can explore more about the remaster on the official Microsoft Store here.
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