Secret Mode and Fuse Games have revealed new details on Star Wars: Galactic Racer during Summer Game Fest 2026, offering a closer look at the game’s story-driven campaign, a new racing location, and expanded podracing action ahead of its release later this year.
Developed in collaboration with Lucasfilm Games, Star Wars: Galactic Racer is set in the Galactic League, an underground racing competition operating in the lawless reaches of the Outer Rim. The latest trailer introduced the central conflict driving the campaign, focusing on the rivalry between reigning champion Kestar Bool and a mysterious challenger known as Shade.
According to the newly revealed story details, the Galactic League was originally founded by racing enthusiast Darius Pax. Over time, however, Kestar Bool has transformed himself into the league’s dominant champion, using his influence and connections to maintain control. Seeking to end Bool’s growing corruption, Pax recruits Shade, a talented racer with a personal history tied to the Bool family, to challenge the champion and restore the league’s integrity.
The single-player campaign is built around a runs-based progression system. Players will choose between different racing events and challenges as they advance through a tour, with each decision affecting the path ahead. Once an event is selected, there is no opportunity to return and choose another route. Crashing too many times results in a failed run, forcing players to begin again while retaining only certain perks, upgrades, and unlocks earned during previous attempts. Each new run offers fresh choices and opportunities to improve before facing Kestar Bool once more.
Beyond the rivalry between Shade and Kestar, players will encounter a variety of racers competing for the top position in the league. The trailer also showcased the paddock areas where racers gather between events. These social hubs allow players to interact with other competitors, receive challenges, and learn more about the world and characters surrounding the Galactic League.
A key figure in these areas is Hibi, a mechanic who operates a workshop on every planet. Players can purchase or install parts acquired during their journey, improving vehicle performance and unlocking abilities that support different racing styles. The customization system is designed to allow racers to adapt their builds based on upcoming events and personal preferences.
The Summer Game Fest trailer also revealed Derven Acos, a new location described as the ultimate challenge within the Galactic League. Built specifically for the competition, the arena combines environmental hazards and conditions from various planets into a single gauntlet. Success on Derven Acos will require both skillful driving and a carefully optimized vehicle setup, making it one of the most demanding tracks in the game.
Another highlight of the presentation was a deeper look at podracing. While the iconic Star Wars vehicles have traditionally been associated with Tatooine’s Mos Espa Circuit, Galactic Racer expands their use to new planets and environments. Podracing will play a role within the campaign, but players can also access the mode immediately through Arcade Mode. In addition, the game will feature dedicated online multiplayer events focused entirely on podracing, marking the first time the high-speed racing style has received this level of multiplayer support within the title.
Star Wars: Galactic Racer is scheduled to launch on October 6, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The game will be available in Standard and Deluxe Editions, both digitally and physically, alongside a physical Collector’s Edition for fans seeking additional content. Pre-orders for all editions are available now.
