In the vast galaxy of video games, Star Wars Outlaws carved out its own unique niche when it launched in 2024. While many titles in the franchise have players wielding lightsabers and channeling the Force, this game took a bold step into the grimy, lived-in underbelly of the Star Wars universe, focusing on the life of an ordinary scoundrel, Kay Vess. This fresh perspective was a breath of fresh air, like discovering a hidden cantina on a forgotten moon. However, amidst the smuggling runs and dealings with syndicates, one element captured the collective heart of the galaxy: Nix, Kay's adorable, axolotl-like companion. This furry little friend isn't just for show; he's a key part of the adventure and, as players quickly discovered, absolutely loves a good petting session.
🐾 Can You Pet Nix? A Resounding Yes!
As Kay's best friend and only trusted confidant, Nix is more than just a cute face. He's an integral part of the Outlaws experience, a loyal partner whose bond with Kay is as central to the story as any blaster fight. And yes, players can absolutely pet Nix in the game—there are no cooldowns, no limits, just pure, unadulterated interspecies affection. Think of him as a pocket-sized Wookiee with the temperament of a sunbeam; he's always ready for a head scratch or two.
Petting Nix is delightfully simple, designed so nothing gets between you and showing your fuzzy friend some love:
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On Console (PS5/Xbox): Hold down L1/LB to bring up Nix's interaction wheel, then click the right thumbstick.
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On PC: Hold down Q to access his controls, then press E.
Executing this command triggers a heartwarming animation where Kay gives Nix a gentle pat, and the little creature visibly perks up with joy. This isn't just for emotional payoff; showing Nix affection can sometimes provide subtle boosts or hints during quests, making those petting sessions as strategically useful as they are adorable.
🌍 A Galaxy Full of Pets: Nix Isn't the Only One!
While Nix may be the star of the show, the developers at Massive Entertainment filled the planets of Star Wars Outlaws with a menagerie of creatures just waiting for a friendly interaction. Kay's journey isn't just about credits and contraband; it's also a galactic petting zoo tour.
On the lush moon of Toshara:
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Gushiros: These small, inquisitive creatures swarm around Kay if you offer them food, each vying for a snack or a gentle pat. A group of them gathering is like watching a cluster of hyperactive, feathered moons bounce in unison.
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Robumas: Native to Toshara, these sturdy, reptilian-looking beasts are surprisingly docile and will allow Kay to approach and pet them calmly.
On iconic planets from the lore:
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Tatooine: No visit to this desert world is complete without interacting with its famous fauna. Kay can pet the shaggy Banthas, rideable Dewbacks, and even the skittish Scurriers that dart through the sand.
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Kijimi: On this icy planet, you'll find the Henku. These gentle, highland cow-like creatures will bow their heads for a pet, their frosty breath creating little clouds in the cold air. They are one of the few friendly faces on this harsh world.
😾 The Green-Eyed Monster: Nix Gets Jealous!
In a delightful touch of realism that makes Nix feel like a true companion, the little guy has feelings. If Kay spends too much time petting other creatures, Nix will actually get jealous. He might turn his back on Kay, flashing his little behind at her in a display of displeasure much like a disgruntled tooka-cat. This behavior, highlighted by fan accounts like 'Can You Pet the Dog?', adds a hilarious and endearing layer to his personality. It's a reminder that even in a galaxy far, far away, the dynamics of pet ownership remain wonderfully familiar.
✨ Why This Detail Matters in 2026
As we look back from 2026, the attention to creature interaction in Star Wars Outlaws stands as a testament to the game's design philosophy. In an era where open-world games can feel overwhelming and impersonal, these small, heartfelt moments of connection—whether with a loyal companion like Nix or a random Robuma on a hillside—create a profound sense of immersion. They make the galaxy feel alive, populated not just by threats and quest-givers, but by beings with their own simple desires for a kind touch.
Star Wars Outlaws successfully pivoted the Star Wars narrative away from cosmic destiny and into the realm of personal stories. In doing so, it didn't just give us a great scoundrel simulator; it gave us a galaxy that feels worth caring for, one friendly creature at a time. So, whether you're a seasoned player revisiting the game on the Nintendo Switch 2 or a newcomer just starting your journey, remember to take a moment between heists. Pet the Nix. Pet the Bantha. Your adventure will be richer for it.
| Quick Petting Guide | Creature | Planet | Interaction |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 | Nix (Companion) | All Planets | Hold Q/L1, then press E/Right Stick |
| 🐾 | Gushiro | Toshara | Offer food to attract a group for pets |
| 🦎 | Robuma | Toshara | Approach calmly to pet |
| 🐪 | Bantha | Tatooine | Can be petted while calm |
| 🦖 | Dewback | Tatooine | Approach from the side to pet |
| 🐮 | Henku | Kijimi | They will bow their heads for a pat |
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Nix's mood! His jealous antics are a hidden gem of the game's companion system.