Outward: Embrace the Harsh Beauty and Brutal Challenge of This Open-World RPG!

Stepping into the world of Outward is akin to taking a leap off a cliff— exhilarating, terrifying, and wholly unpredictable. Developed by Nine Dots Studio and published in 2019, this open-world survival RPG throws players headfirst into the unforgiving lands of Aurai, where every sunrise presents a fresh battle for survival. Forget the hand-holding tutorials and predictable questlines; Outward demands respect, ingenuity, and an unflinching ability to adapt.
The game’s plot is refreshingly minimalist. You awaken as a nameless traveler, burdened by debt and facing expulsion from your chosen faction, the Order of Sorcerers. Your journey begins not with epic battles against dragons or world-ending threats, but with a mundane quest – gather enough funds to pay off your dues.
This seemingly simple objective underscores Outward’s core philosophy: survival comes before glory. From scavenging for food and water to crafting basic tools and shelter, every action serves as a testament to the harsh realities of this world. The game’s open-world design encourages exploration, but it is far from forgiving.
Outward’s brutal difficulty sets it apart from its peers. Enemies hit hard, resources are scarce, and death comes swiftly and often – expect to lose progress frequently. The lack of a traditional leveling system adds another layer of complexity. Instead, your character grows stronger through mastering skills and crafting increasingly potent gear. This means actively choosing which abilities to hone based on your preferred playstyle, whether it be stealthy assassination, brutal melee combat, or manipulating the arcane arts.
The Intriguing World of Aurai: More Than Just Survival
Aurai itself is a character worthy of note. Lush forests give way to treacherous mountain passes, sprawling deserts punctuated by ancient ruins, and shimmering coastlines teeming with both opportunity and danger. Every region boasts its own unique challenges and rewards, encouraging players to venture beyond their comfort zone.
Beyond the stunning visuals, Outward’s world is richly populated with diverse factions, each harboring its own beliefs and agenda. From the enigmatic Grey Walkers who dwell in the mountains to the mercantile guilds of the coastal cities, navigating these complex relationships adds a layer of social intrigue rarely seen in survival games.
Faction | Beliefs | Strengths | Weaknesses |
---|---|---|---|
Order of Sorcerers | Masters of arcane knowledge | Powerful magic users | Vulnerable to physical attacks |
The Brotherhood of the Wild | Guardians of nature | Skilled hunters and trackers | Suspicious of outsiders |
The Merchant Guild | Driven by profit | Extensive trade network | Greedy and self-serving |
Production Features: A Blend of Innovation and Classic RPG Elements
Outward’s development reflects a dedication to crafting a truly immersive experience.
Cooperative Gameplay:
One of the game’s standout features is its robust cooperative multiplayer mode. Embark on your journey with a trusted companion, sharing resources, skills, and the burden of survival. Teamwork becomes crucial as you tackle challenging encounters and uncover Aurai’s hidden secrets together.
Dynamic Weather System:
Aurai is a living, breathing world, constantly affected by unpredictable weather patterns. Sun-drenched plains can give way to torrential downpours, while snowstorms blanket mountain passes, obscuring visibility and testing your resilience.
Crafting and Alchemy:
Survival hinges on your ability to craft essential tools, weapons, and armor from scavenged materials. Outward’s crafting system is intricate and rewarding, allowing for a wide variety of combinations and customization options. Experiment with alchemy to brew potions that grant temporary buffs or cure debilitating ailments.
Unique Skill Progression:
Outward eschews traditional leveling systems in favor of a more organic skill progression. As you repeatedly perform actions, your character gradually masters them. This system encourages experimentation and specialization, allowing players to carve their own paths through Aurai.
The Verdict: Outward is not for the Faint of Heart
While Outward may not appeal to everyone, particularly those seeking a hand-holding RPG experience, its brutal honesty and relentless challenge are precisely what make it so captivating. This is a game that demands respect, rewards ingenuity, and ultimately leaves you feeling truly accomplished. If you’re ready to embrace the harsh beauty of Aurai and embark on a journey where survival is paramount, then Outward awaits.