For years, fans have been begging for a modern sequel to Star Wars Episode I: Racer. At The Game Awards 2025, that wish was finally granted—with a twist. Star Wars: Galactic Racer isn’t just a podracing game; it is a gritty, high-octane racing experience set in the lawless Outer Rim after the fall of the Empire. Developed by Fuse Games (a studio formed by former Criterion veterans who built Burnout and Need for Speed), this title promises to bring arcade-style chaos back to the galaxy far, far away.
The reveal trailer was packed with speed, crashes, and familiar faces. We saw everything from landspeeders to speeder bikes tearing through the wreckage of Star Destroyers on Jakku. And yes, a certain Dug named Sebulba made a surprise appearance at the end, looking older but just as mean as ever.
Not Just Podracing
While the spiritual DNA of Episode I: Racer is undeniable, Galactic Racer expands the scope significantly. The game introduces a new protagonist named Shade, a racer seeking glory and revenge in “The Galactic League.” This unsanctioned racing circuit allows for a variety of vehicle classes, not just pods. The developers have confirmed customizable repulsorcraft, meaning you can likely tune your ride for different tracks and playstyles.
The gameplay description emphasizes “skill, strategy, and the will to rise,” explicitly stating there is “No Force. No prophecy.” This grounded approach fits perfectly with the post-Empire setting, where scavengers and outlaws are fighting for scraps (and credits).
The Criterion Pedigree
The most exciting aspect of this announcement is the team behind it. Fuse Games is led by Matt Webster, the former GM of Criterion Games. If you played Burnout Paradise or Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit, you know exactly what that means: incredible sense of speed, satisfying drift mechanics, and spectacular crashes. The trailer hinted at “punishing takedowns,” suggesting that combat will be just as important as cornering.
Set for a 2026 release on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, Galactic Racer is poised to fill a void in the genre that has been empty for too long. It is fast, it is dangerous, and it looks absolutely wizard.
Conclusion
Star Wars: Galactic Racer is shaping up to be the racing game fans have dreamed of for decades. By combining the beloved universe of Star Wars with the adrenaline-pumping mechanics of Burnout, Fuse Games has a potential hit on their hands. 2026 can’t get here fast enough.
FAQs
Is this a sequel to Star Wars Episode I: Racer?
Not directly. While it features Sebulba and similar high-speed racing, it is a new IP set after the fall of the Empire with a new story and vehicle types.
When is Star Wars: Galactic Racer coming out?
The game is scheduled for release in 2026.
What platforms will it be on?
It will launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam and Epic Games Store).
Can I customize my vehicle?
Yes, the game features multiple classes of repulsorcraft that can be customized and upgraded.
Who is developing the game?
Fuse Games, a studio founded by former leaders of Criterion Games (creators of the Burnout series).