Stepping into the world of Outward is like being thrown headfirst into a tempestuous cauldron of survival. This action RPG developed by Nine Dots Studio and published by Deep Silver isn’t for the faint of heart. It eschews the comforting hand-holding often found in other games, instead opting to present a raw, unforgiving experience that demands respect and cunning.
The game unfolds in the war-torn fantasy world of Aurai, where ancient magic mingles with brutal realism. You begin as a freshly graduated adventurer, thrust into a world riddled with dangers both mundane and monstrous. From ravenous bandits lurking in shadowed forests to grotesque creatures spawned from corrupted earth, survival hinges on your ability to adapt and overcome relentless challenges.
Outward’s core brilliance lies in its unique approach to character progression and gameplay mechanics.
Forging Your Path: Forget predefined classes and streamlined leveling systems; Outward throws you into a sandbox where your skills are honed through real-world experience. Need to be a master swordsman? Practice relentlessly, hone your technique against increasingly challenging foes. Want to become a potion-brewing alchemist?
Experiment with various ingredients, decipher ancient recipes, and learn the delicate balance of alchemical mastery.
The game’s open world encourages exploration and discovery. Traverse diverse biomes, from sun-drenched grasslands to treacherous snow-capped mountains. Uncover hidden caves filled with forgotten treasures, navigate winding dungeons teeming with deadly traps, and forge alliances (or rivalries) with enigmatic inhabitants scattered across the land.
Survival is Paramount: Outward’s world isn’t designed for leisurely strolls. Hunger, thirst, and exhaustion are ever-present threats, demanding constant vigilance and resource management.
Hunt wild beasts for sustenance, gather medicinal herbs to craft healing potions, and sleep under the starry night sky to regain your strength.
But beware! Resting in exposed areas can leave you vulnerable to nocturnal predators.
Crafting and Customization: The crafting system is a cornerstone of Outward’s depth.
Gather raw materials from fallen foes, scavenged ruins, and the bounty of nature itself.
Combine these ingredients with intricate recipes to forge weapons, armor, potions, and even magical artifacts.
Customize your gear to match your playstyle. Prefer heavy armor and a towering shield? Forge a hulking breastplate and bash through hordes of enemies.
Crave agility and stealth? Craft nimble leather garments and hone your skills in the art of assassination.
A World Steeped in Lore: Outward’s narrative unfolds organically as you interact with its inhabitants, explore forgotten ruins, and decipher ancient texts. Unravel the mysteries surrounding Aurai’s past, delve into complex political factions vying for power, and confront mythical creatures whispered about in hushed tones.
Key Features that Set Outward Apart
Outward distinguishes itself from other survival RPGs through several key features:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Harsh but Rewarding: The game’s unforgiving nature forces players to adapt and become resourceful. Every victory feels truly earned. | |
Open World Exploration: Discover diverse biomes, hidden dungeons, and ancient ruins teeming with secrets. | |
Skill-Based Progression: Develop your skills through real-world experience rather than arbitrary level-ups. | |
Deep Crafting System: Gather resources and forge a wide array of weapons, armor, potions, and magical artifacts. | |
Rich Narrative: Uncover the mysteries of Aurai’s past through exploration, dialogue, and ancient lore. |
Embracing the Challenge: Outward is not for everyone. Its demanding gameplay and lack of hand-holding can be frustrating for some.
But for those seeking a truly immersive and challenging survival experience, it offers unparalleled depth and satisfaction. It’s a game that rewards patience, cunning, and a willingness to embrace its unforgiving world.
So, are you ready to step into the untamed realm of Aurai and forge your own legend?