Outward: Embracing the Brutality and Beauty of a Hand-Crafted Fantasy World!

Prepare yourself for a journey into the untamed wilderness of Aurai, where survival is not guaranteed, and every step forward presents a unique challenge. Outward, developed by Nine Dots Studio and published by Deep Silver, throws away the traditional fantasy RPG handbook and instead opts for a brutal yet rewarding experience that emphasizes player agency and consequence. Forget pre-determined character builds or hand-holding tutorials; in Outward, you are thrust into a world where your choices truly matter, and death is but a minor inconvenience on your path to greatness.

A World Shaped by Choice and Consequence:

Outward’s narrative takes the form of an open-ended adventure. You awaken in the slums of the coastal city of Cierzo, burdened with a hefty debt that threatens to consume you. Your quest for repayment thrusts you into a world teeming with danger and opportunity, where every decision shapes your destiny. From forging alliances with eccentric merchants to battling monstrous beasts in ancient ruins, each encounter leaves its mark on your journey.

The game eschews traditional linear storytelling, instead opting for a sandboxy experience that encourages exploration and experimentation. You can choose to delve into the mysteries of forgotten dungeons, hunt down rare creatures for their valuable hides, or even embrace a life of trade and craftsmanship, building a thriving business in Aurai’s bustling marketplace.

Survival Mechanics: More Than Just Food and Water:

While Outward certainly embraces classic survival elements like hunger, thirst, and fatigue, it dives deeper into the nuances of world interaction. Equipment degradation is a constant concern, forcing you to repair and maintain your gear for optimal performance. Weather conditions play a significant role in your journey, affecting visibility, stamina recovery, and even combat effectiveness.

Furthermore, Outward introduces unique ailments and afflictions that can cripple your progress if left untreated. From debilitating frostbite suffered during winter expeditions to venomous snakebites encountered while exploring dense forests, every encounter demands a cautious approach and awareness of your surroundings.

The Importance of Preparation:

Outward emphasizes preparation and resourcefulness above brute force. Traveling into the wilds without proper equipment and supplies is a recipe for disaster. Before embarking on any quest or exploration, you must carefully assess your needs: food, water, healing potions, bandages for wounds, and appropriate clothing for the environment are all crucial considerations.

Table: Outward’s Essential Survival Items:

The Beauty of a Hand-Crafted World:

Outward’s visuals, while not pushing the boundaries of modern graphics, offer a charmingly rustic aesthetic. Aurai is populated by intricately designed environments ranging from vibrant coastal cities to sun-drenched deserts and treacherous mountain ranges. Every location feels distinct and teeming with life, inviting exploration and discovery.

The game’s soundtrack further enhances the immersive experience, featuring haunting melodies and atmospheric soundscapes that perfectly capture the essence of each environment. The sound design is also remarkable, bringing every creature encounter to life with realistic growls, screeches, and roars.

A Deep and Rewarding System:

Outward’s character progression system breaks away from traditional leveling mechanics. Instead of simply accumulating experience points, your skills develop organically through repeated use and practice. This encourages experimentation and rewards players for mastering different aspects of the game world.

From swordsmanship to herbalism, alchemy to crafting, there are countless skills to unlock and refine. The more you engage with a particular activity, the more proficient you become. This dynamic system allows for diverse playstyles and fosters a sense of personal growth that is deeply satisfying.

Embrace the Challenge:

Outward is not a game for the faint of heart. It demands patience, resourcefulness, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. Death is frequent and often unexpected, but it serves as a valuable learning experience. Each encounter offers an opportunity to refine your strategies, optimize your equipment, and become more adept at navigating Aurai’s perilous landscapes.

For those seeking a truly immersive and challenging RPG experience that rewards careful planning and thoughtful execution, Outward stands out as a hidden gem in the crowded survival genre.