Fans of the open-world action game Star Wars Outlaws will soon be able to dive deeper into the story’s underworld with a brand-new novel titled Star Wars Outlaws: Low Red Moon. Written by acclaimed author Mike Chen and published by Random House Worlds, the novel is scheduled to release on February 3, 2026.
Rather than following the game’s protagonist Kay Vess, *Low Red Moon* serves as a prequel that focuses on the past of one of the game’s key antagonists, Jaylen Vrax, and his unlikely ally, the reprogrammed assassin droid ND-5. The story explores how Jaylen — originally Jaylen Barsha, heir to a powerful Corellian family — is forced into life on the run after a violent attack on his clan.
A Deeper Look at Jaylen and ND-5’s Origins
*Star Wars Outlaws: Low Red Moon* expands on the underexplored backstory of its central characters. After the Empire brands the Barsha family as conspirators, a BX-series battle droid arrives to carry out a ruthless attack on their estate. Jaylen survives and is left with no choice but to reprogram the droid, who becomes his partner as they flee into the galaxy’s criminal underworld.
Together, Jaylen and ND-5 make their way among scoundrels, bounty hunters, and syndicates while searching for answers about who ordered the original hit on Jaylen’s family. This journey explores themes of loyalty, identity, and survival in a hostile galaxy — setting the stage for the conditions that shape Jaylen’s later role in the *Outlaws* game timeline.
Standalone Story for Many Readers
Though tied to the events and lore of *Star Wars Outlaws*, the novel is designed to be accessible to readers who haven’t played the game. Early previews and reviews note that the story stands on its own, with rich character development and emotional depth that will appeal to longtime fans of Star Wars novels as well as newcomers.
Readers have also praised Mike Chen’s ability to balance high-stakes action with thoughtful character work. Many reviewers describe the novel as fast-paced and emotionally engaging, noting that ND-5’s evolution from programmed killer to complex companion adds a unique layer to the narrative — one that resonates even beyond the larger Star Wars saga.
Release and Availability
*Star Wars Outlaws: Low Red Moon* will be published in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook formats on February 3, 2026, and is already available for preorder through major retailers. Fans of *Star Wars Outlaws* and Star Wars literature alike are expected to welcome this addition to the galaxy’s expanding canon.
Source: Polygon reporting on Star Wars Outlaws: Low Red Moon and related book announcements.