Outward! A Survival RPG That Will Test Your Mettle (And Your Patience!)

Buckle up, fellow adventurers, because we’re diving into a world where every rustle of leaves and flickering torchlight might herald imminent danger. “Outward,” developed by Nine Dots Studio and published by Deep Silver, is a refreshing take on the RPG genre, emphasizing gritty realism and punishing difficulty over streamlined progression and hand-holding tutorials. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you crave a truly immersive experience where every decision matters and death lurks around every corner (literally!), then “Outward” might be your next obsession.

A World Teetering on the Brink

“Outward” thrusts players into the shoes of a newly graduated adventurer in the war-torn land of Aurai. The once vibrant kingdom is crumbling under the weight of internal strife and an encroaching mystical blight known as “The Corrupted.” You, as a simple student of magic, must navigate this perilous landscape, unraveling ancient mysteries while forging your own destiny.

The world of “Outward” isn’t about grand quests or epic prophecies. It’s about survival. You’ll need to manage hunger, thirst, and fatigue, constantly scavenging for food and water while keeping an eye out for bandits, ferocious beasts, and even the weather itself. Forget fast travel; traversing Aurai’s sprawling wilderness means walking (or limping) every step of the way. This deliberate pacing encourages exploration and immersion, allowing you to truly appreciate the game’s breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to dense forests teeming with dangerous wildlife.

Building Your Legacy Brick by Bloody Brick

“Outward” boasts a unique skill system that eschews traditional class archetypes in favor of flexible character development. Instead of choosing predefined roles like warrior or mage, you hone your abilities through practical experience. Want to become a master swordsman? Spend time training with a blade. Crave the power of magic?

Seek out ancient scrolls and experiment with different spell combinations.

The game encourages experimentation and rewards creativity, allowing you to tailor your character to your preferred playstyle.

One of “Outward’s” defining features is its emphasis on collaboration. While solo playthrough is perfectly viable, joining forces with other adventurers adds a whole new layer of complexity and strategy. Teamwork is essential for tackling challenging dungeons and formidable bosses, as each player brings unique skills and perspectives to the table.

Imagine yourself coordinating attacks with a fellow adventurer, one distracting the enemy while you unleash a powerful spell. Or picture meticulously planning your route through a treacherous dungeon, using torches to ward off the encroaching darkness and sharing resources along the way. The possibilities for collaborative gameplay are endless, offering a truly rewarding multiplayer experience.

Beyond the Basics: A Deeper Dive into “Outward’s” Features

• Dynamic Weather System: The world of Aurai is alive and breathing, with a weather system that impacts both your character and the environment. Rain can soak your clothes, slowing you down and making you susceptible to hypothermia. Snowstorms obscure vision and drain stamina. Use this dynamic weather to your advantage - find shelter during blizzards or utilize rain to extinguish enemy torches!

• Crafting and Item Degradation: “Outward” encourages resourcefulness by incorporating a deep crafting system. Gather materials from the world around you and craft everything from weapons and armor to potions and traps. But be warned, items in “Outward” degrade over time. Regular maintenance and repair are crucial for keeping your equipment in top condition.

• Unique Quests and Encounters: Forget generic fetch quests and repetitive dungeon crawls. “Outward’s” questlines are often nuanced and unconventional, presenting moral dilemmas and unexpected twists. You might be tasked with retrieving a stolen artifact from a band of bandits or negotiating peace between warring factions. Be prepared for the unexpected, as even seemingly mundane encounters can escalate into thrilling battles.

The Verdict: Is “Outward” Worth Your Time?

“Outward” is not for everyone. Its punishing difficulty, complex systems, and emphasis on realism might deter casual gamers seeking a quick and easy adventure. However, for those who crave a truly immersive and challenging RPG experience, “Outward” delivers in spades. It’s a game that rewards patience, persistence, and ingenuity, offering a world rich with exploration, danger, and countless opportunities for self-discovery.

If you’re looking for an escape from the mundane and yearn to test your mettle against a truly unforgiving world, then lace up your boots, grab your trusty weapon, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey in “Outward.” Just don’t forget to pack extra bandages and rations – you’ll need them!