# Nintendo Switch OLED: A New Look at Rebel Galaxy Outlaw
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Chapter 1: An Overview of the Nintendo Switch OLED
When the Nintendo Switch OLED was initially unveiled in 2021, I expressed skepticism, dubbing it a hasty money grab. Yet, several months later, I treated myself to one as a holiday gift. I generally appreciate the Switch as a gaming platform, but even now, I hesitate to wholeheartedly endorse the OLED model for newcomers. It shares the same internal components as the less expensive variants, and while its magnesium backplate, enhanced audio, and larger, better-ventilated dock are notable, they don't sufficiently justify the higher price tag.
What truly stands out is the OLED display itself. Ironically, it doesn't reach the same brightness levels as the standard LCD on the more affordable Switch Lite, yet its quick response time and rich color depth are impressive. This feature nearly makes it worthwhile—especially if you primarily intend to use the device in portable mode.
This series will showcase my top game choices that shine on the Switch OLED. For the inaugural selection, I've chosen an indie space adventure that, regrettably, has been overlooked—so much so that its development studio has since closed down.
Rebel Galaxy Outlaw is available across all major platforms, including PC, and can be purchased for a reasonable thirty dollars (official Nintendo Store link here). Developed by the small studio Double Damage, this title serves as a prequel to their earlier game, Rebel Galaxy, though prior experience with that game is not necessary to enjoy this one.
Chapter 2: The Game's Unique Narrative and Gameplay
In Rebel Galaxy Outlaw, players assume the role of Juno Markev, a skilled space pilot. She is a refreshing protagonist in a genre that often relies on the same tired tropes. Juno stands out alongside characters like Selene from Returnal, embodying a fully fleshed-out adult woman with depth beyond simply being a "cool character who shoots." While female leads are becoming more prevalent, they frequently lack the complexity that Juno offers, making Outlaw a standout title.
Juno's quest for vengeance against those responsible for her husband's death leads you through a vast galaxy filled with diverse systems, quests, space stations, intense battles, and ship enhancements. This game fits within the "Everything game" genre of space simulations, so if you’ve enjoyed titles like Elite, X, No Man’s Sky, or Freelancer, you’ll feel right at home. Players can follow the main storyline or engage in various side activities such as trading, discovering loot, battling pirates, or enjoying fully developed bar games, including 8-ball pool, poker, and a nod to Asteroids called Star Venger.
The default first-person perspective evokes nostalgia for classic space action games like Wing Commander, allowing players to engage in dogfights with strategic flexibility through various weapon types and power management options. Additionally, the game includes modern features for accessibility, such as a zoomed-out targeting map for easier navigation during combat and an auto-pursuit function to quickly close in on adversaries.
The visuals consist of the deep void of space contrasted with vividly rendered ships, planets, and laser fire. The high-contrast action is perfectly suited for the Switch OLED’s display, making targeting and aiming at enemies straightforward as they stand out against the background, with explosions bursting in vibrant colors.
Chapter 3: The Developers Behind the Magic
The Switch version of Rebel Galaxy Outlaw prioritized its artistic identity over pure performance, which may lead to occasional slowdowns. However, players can rest assured that the visual aesthetics remain largely intact compared to more powerful consoles. The extensive licensed soundtrack and quirky radio stations are also preserved in their entirety, a welcome change from other Switch ports that suffered from audio quality issues.
The creative mind behind this game, Travis Baldree, has an extensive background in the industry, dating back to titles like Fate and Torchlight. His co-founder at Double Damage, Erich Schaefer, is known for his work on the iconic Diablo franchise. In addition to guiding the game’s development, Baldree also lends his voice to numerous characters within the game, delivering outstanding performances.
Regrettably, I must refer to the studio in the past tense, as it no longer operates. Outlaw did not achieve the commercial success needed to sustain the team, which is disappointing given its quality and its status as a notable example of the genre. While Baldree has since gained recognition as the voice behind several popular audiobooks and as the author of a cozy romance series, the reception of Outlaw continues to be a letdown.
Chapter 4: The Community's Reception and Legacy
There have been suggestions that the space gaming community can be difficult to navigate, and it’s easy to understand why. This genre boasts a rich history, and enthusiasts can be quite passionate in their discussions online. Outlaw distinguishes itself from its predecessor, stirring intense debates among fans that continue to this day. A recent Reddit post illustrates this ongoing dialogue.
I'm genuinely pleased that this title exists and that it has a visually stunning version for the Switch. If you've enjoyed the more mainstream No Man’s Sky and are seeking a more action-oriented experience that harkens back to the genre's roots, you should definitely give this game a try. It's a fantastic option to tide you over until Starfield arrives. Alternatively, if you want something that showcases the deep blacks of the OLED screen on your premium Switch, Rebel Galaxy Outlaw is ready to impress.
I sincerely hope that the dissolution of the studio does not result in these games disappearing from digital platforms. That would be a major loss. Both Rebel Galaxy titles exemplify the incredible potential that a small, talented team can achieve through focused design. Outlaw deserved to be a major success rather than the final release from its creators.
This video provides an overview of Rebel Galaxy Outlaw on the Nintendo Switch, highlighting its performance and gameplay features.
Check out this review of Rebel Galaxy Outlaw on the Nintendo Switch, showcasing the game's unique elements and overall experience.