Outward: A Brutally Honest Exploration of Survival in a Fantasy World!
Outward, developed by Nine Dots Studio and published by Deep Silver, throws you headfirst into the unforgiving world of Aurai, a land teeming with both beauty and danger. Unlike most RPGs where the narrative spoon-feeds you quests and objectives, Outward takes a refreshingly unconventional approach: survival is paramount, and the story unfolds organically through your choices and interactions with the world.
Imagine waking up in a dingy tavern room with nothing but a rusty dagger and a vague memory of a debt owed to a powerful mage guild. Your journey begins as an apprentice, tasked with proving your worth by venturing into treacherous lands. This is no stroll through sun-dappled meadows; Outward demands respect, rewarding careful planning, resourcefulness, and a healthy dose of luck.
Navigating the Harsh Realities of Aurai
Outward ditches the hand-holding common in most RPGs. Hunger gnaws at your stomach, thirst dries your throat, and exhaustion can cripple you mid-battle. Foraging for berries, hunting wildlife, and brewing potions are not just side quests; they are fundamental to survival.
The world of Aurai is vast and diverse, encompassing sprawling forests teeming with wild creatures, desolate deserts baking under the sun, and treacherous mountain ranges shrouded in perpetual snow. Each biome presents unique challenges: poisonous insects lurking in the shadows, ferocious beasts stalking their prey, and unforgiving weather conditions that can test even the most seasoned adventurer.
The game’s day-night cycle adds another layer of complexity. Exploring at night is considerably riskier due to increased enemy spawns and reduced visibility. The flickering light of a torch provides a meager defense against the unseen terrors that lurk in the darkness.
Crafting Your Path to Survival: From Novice to Master
Outward embraces a crafting system that goes beyond simply creating weapons and armor. You’ll need to gather raw materials, learn recipes from NPCs or through experimentation, and carefully manage your inventory space. This constant balancing act adds a layer of depth and realism to the gameplay experience.
The character progression system allows you to specialize in various skills like blacksmithing, alchemy, and hunting. These skills not only enhance your ability to survive but also open up new opportunities for exploration and interaction with the world. Want to become a master potion brewer? Hone your alchemy skills and unlock potent concoctions that can heal wounds, boost stats, or even induce paralysis in your enemies.
Confronting the Unknown: A World Ripe with Danger and Mystery
Outward’s combat system is deliberate and unforgiving. Blocking, dodging, and timing your attacks are crucial for survival. Don’t expect to button-mash your way through hordes of enemies; a single mistake can cost you dearly.
The world teems with diverse creatures, from nimble goblins ambushing travelers to hulking beasts guarding ancient ruins. Each enemy possesses unique strengths and weaknesses, requiring strategic approaches.
But the true beauty of Outward lies in its open-endedness. There are no clear-cut good or evil paths. You forge your own destiny through the choices you make, the alliances you form, and the challenges you overcome. The narrative is fluid, reacting to your actions and shaping a unique experience for each player.
Exploring the Depths: Multiplayer Mayhem
Outward’s multiplayer mode allows you to team up with friends and tackle the challenges of Aurai together. Cooperation is key, as you’ll need to coordinate your attacks, share resources, and support each other through tough encounters.
Imagine facing a formidable boss creature alongside your companions, each utilizing their unique skills and strengths to exploit weaknesses and emerge victorious.
Key Features that Set Outward Apart:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Survival Mechanics: Hunger, thirst, exhaustion, and temperature all play crucial roles. | Manage these needs effectively or face dire consequences. |
| Open-World Exploration: Discover a vast and diverse world with unique biomes and hidden secrets. | Explore at your own pace, uncover ancient ruins, and encounter fascinating creatures. |
| Crafting & Alchemy: Gather resources, learn recipes, and create powerful weapons, armor, potions, and other items. | Experiment with different combinations and discover hidden synergies. |
A Refreshing Take on the Survival RPG Genre
Outward is a captivating experience for those seeking a challenging and immersive survival adventure. Its unforgiving world, intricate crafting system, and open-ended narrative offer hours of exploration, experimentation, and thrilling encounters.
Don’t expect a hand-holding experience; Outward rewards patience, resourcefulness, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. This is not your typical fantasy RPG where you slay dragons and save princesses; it is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the constant struggle for survival in a world teeming with both beauty and brutality.
Are you ready to face the challenge?