Outward: An Epic Journey of Survival and Adventure

Released on PC in March 2019 by Nine Dots Studio, “Outward” is a unique open-world RPG that challenges players to survive and thrive in a harsh and unforgiving fantasy world. Unlike many RPGs that cast players as powerful heroes destined to save the world, “Outward” takes a different approach, placing players in the role of ordinary individuals struggling to make their way in a dangerous and mysterious land. With its emphasis on survival, exploration, and immersive gameplay, “Outward” offers a refreshing take on the genre and has garnered praise for its depth, complexity, and attention to detail.

Survival and Realism: A New Approach to RPGs

At its core, “Outward” is all about survival. Players must contend with hunger, thirst, fatigue, and injury as they explore the game world, scavenge for resources, and fend off hostile creatures. Unlike many RPGs where health and mana regenerate automatically, “Outward” requires players to actively manage their character’s needs and status, making every decision and action feel meaningful and impactful.

The game’s emphasis on survival extends to its combat system, which is designed to be challenging and realistic. Players must carefully time their attacks, block and dodge incoming blows, and manage their stamina and positioning to overcome their enemies. With its emphasis on strategy and skill, combat in “Outward” feels intense and satisfying, rewarding players for their mastery of the game’s mechanics.

Dynamic Open World: Explore, Discover, Survive

“Outward” features a vast and diverse open world filled with secrets, dangers, and opportunities for exploration. From lush forests to barren deserts, players can traverse a variety of environments, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. The game’s world is teeming with wildlife, hidden treasures, and ancient ruins waiting to be discovered, encouraging players to venture off the beaten path and uncover the mysteries of the land.

One of the defining features of “Outward” is its dynamic and immersive world simulation, which reacts to the player’s actions and decisions in meaningful ways. Players must contend with dynamic weather, day-night cycles, and changing seasons, which can affect their ability to survive and navigate the environment. In addition, the game features a branching narrative with multiple endings, allowing players to shape the fate of the world through their choices and actions.

Cooperative Multiplayer: Forge Alliances, Overcome Challenges

While “Outward” can be played solo, the game truly shines in its cooperative multiplayer mode, where up to two players can team up to tackle the game’s challenges together. Working together with friends, players can share resources, pool their skills, and overcome obstacles that would be impossible to conquer alone. Cooperative play adds an extra layer of strategy and camaraderie to the gameplay experience, as players must communicate and coordinate their actions to survive and thrive in the harsh wilderness.

Character Progression and Customization: Forge Your Own Path

In “Outward,” players have the freedom to forge their own path and create their own stories. The game features a deep and flexible character progression system that allows players to customize their character’s skills, abilities, and equipment to suit their playstyle. Whether specializing in combat, magic, or crafting, players can tailor their character to fit their preferred role and playstyle, creating a truly unique and personalized experience.

In addition to character progression, “Outward” also features a robust crafting system that allows players to create a wide variety of items, weapons, and armor using materials found in the game world. From basic tools and survival gear to powerful weapons and enchanted artifacts, players can craft a wide range of equipment to aid them in their journey and overcome the game’s challenges.

Visuals and Sound: Atmospheric and Immersive

Visually, “Outward” impresses with its detailed environments, atmospheric lighting, and realistic character animations. From the lush forests and rugged mountains to the desolate wastelands and ancient ruins, each area of the game world is beautifully rendered and filled with atmospheric touches that draw players deeper into the game’s world.

Complementing the visuals is a haunting and immersive soundtrack that sets the tone for the game’s epic adventure. From sweeping orchestral scores to ambient soundscapes, the music in “Outward” enhances the atmosphere and adds to the sense of immersion, making players feel like they’re truly part of the world they’re exploring.

Conclusion: A Rich and Rewarding RPG Experience

In conclusion, “Outward” is a rich and rewarding RPG experience that offers a fresh and immersive take on the genre. With its emphasis on survival, exploration, and cooperative multiplayer, the game offers a challenging and dynamic gameplay experience that keeps players coming back for more. Whether exploring the game world solo or teaming up with friends to conquer its challenges together, “Outward” offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery, making it a must-play title for fans of open-world RPGs.