Star Wars: Galactic Racer Revives Sebulba and the Thrill of Podracing

Get ready, Mario Kart and Kirby Air Riders, because a new contender is zooming in from a galaxy far, far away. Announced at a major gaming event, Star Wars Galactic Racer is set to carry on the legacy of Star Wars Episode I: Racer, which allowed players to dive into the thrilling world of podracing. This time, the game expands the variety of vehicles you can race, with the teaser trailer showcasing some high-octane racing action.

In the trailer, you’ll catch glimpses of podracers, landspeeders, speeder bikes, and more, all tearing through desert landscapes at breakneck speeds. As the narrator puts it, “The galaxy needs racing!” Each vehicle promises its own unique physics and playstyle, adding depth to the racing experience.

According to the game’s synopsis, Galactic Racer is described as a “runs-based, high-stakes reinvention of racing born in the lawless Outer Rim of the Star Wars galaxy.” Set after the Empire’s fall, the game introduces The Galactic League, an obscure element from Star Wars lore, which serves as an “unsanctioned racing circuit” in this chaotic region.

Players can look forward to a story-driven campaign featuring an original narrative, alongside various multiplayer modes for racing with friends.

In the campaign, you’ll step into the shoes of a new character named Shade, “a lone racer with a dream of glory and revenge.” Shade will face off against a “ruthless rival” named Kester, as they compete in races across the expansive Star Wars galaxy.

Star Wars: Galactic Racer is being developed by Fuse Games, a studio formed by former Criterion developers who departed from the Need for Speed franchise in 2022.

“For us, Star Wars has always represented the power of wonder – and racing is one of its most thrilling expressions,” said Matt Webster, CEO of Fuse Games. “With Star Wars: Galactic Racer, we aimed to reinvent what a racing game can be: adventurous, spectacular, and exhilarating. We want every race to feel alive with dynamic risk-reward choices, and every victory to feel incredible.”

Don’t expect Force powers, lightsabers, or endless Jedi lore in this title. Star Wars: Galactic Racer seems to have a clear vision of what it wants to be. Here’s hoping the final product lives up to the excitement of the trailer.

Star Wars: Galactic Racer is set to launch in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC.