Outward! A Grim Yet Beautiful Exploration into Survival and Choice

Prepare yourself for a journey into the harsh, unforgiving lands of Aurai. This sprawling open-world RPG plunges you headfirst into a struggle for survival against treacherous terrains, monstrous creatures, and, perhaps most dangerous of all, your own hubris. Developed by Nine Dots Studio and published by Deep Silver, Outward dares to be different from the typical fantasy fare, offering a refreshingly grounded experience where success hinges on careful planning, resourcefulness, and a willingness to embrace failure.

Outward’s narrative eschews the usual chosen one trope. Instead, you’re simply an ordinary adventurer thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Having been granted passage to the famed “School of Magic” in the hopes of honing your abilities, you soon find yourself embroiled in ancient prophecies and a looming threat that endangers all of Aurai. Your journey is less about saving the world and more about navigating its complexities, forging alliances (or rivalries), and ultimately defining your own path within this brutal yet captivating realm.

Survival as a Core Mechanic:

Forget about endless potions and readily available healing spells. Outward takes a decidedly unforgiving approach to survival. Hunger, thirst, and exhaustion are constant companions, requiring careful management through foraging, hunting, crafting consumables, and securing safe havens for rest. Even the mundane act of traveling becomes a challenge as you contend with shifting weather patterns, perilous wildlife, and the ever-present danger of bandits or other hostile factions.

This emphasis on survival seamlessly intertwines with the game’s combat system, adding an extra layer of tension to every encounter. Weapons degrade over time, forcing you to repair or replace them regularly. Armor offers limited protection, and tactical positioning becomes crucial as you attempt to outmaneuver opponents and exploit their weaknesses. Even seemingly mundane decisions, such as choosing your travel route or packing supplies, can significantly impact your chances of survival.

Crafting and Character Progression:

Outward’s crafting system is incredibly deep and rewarding. From gathering raw materials to forging weapons, brewing potions, and even constructing entire settlements, the possibilities are vast. Mastering this intricate system allows you to tailor your character’s strengths and overcome specific challenges. For example, a skilled alchemist might specialize in concocting powerful healing brews or debilitating poisons, while a master blacksmith could forge devastating weaponry capable of felling even the mightiest beasts.

Character progression in Outward deviates from traditional level-based systems. Instead, skills are developed through active use and experimentation. Successfully landing a blow with a specific weapon type improves your proficiency, while brewing potions hones your alchemy skills. This organic system encourages players to explore diverse playstyles and truly embrace the role they carve out for themselves within Aurai’s intricate tapestry.

Exploring the Diverse Lands of Aurai:

Outward’s world is stunningly rendered with breathtaking vistas and richly detailed environments. From lush forests teeming with wildlife to desolate deserts punctuated by ancient ruins, each region presents unique challenges and opportunities for exploration. Hidden dungeons, abandoned settlements, and treacherous mountain ranges beckon adventurers seeking untold treasures or perilous encounters.

The game encourages you to forge your own path through Aurai, allowing for diverse playstyles and approaches. Stealthy assassins might prefer to stalk their prey from the shadows, while spell-wielding mages could unleash devastating elemental powers. Warriors might choose a direct approach, engaging in fierce combat with sword and shield. No matter your chosen path, Outward rewards curiosity, exploration, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.

Multiplayer and Shared Experiences:

Outward’s cooperative multiplayer mode allows you to join forces with friends and tackle the game’s challenges together. Sharing resources, strategizing combat encounters, and supporting each other through hardship can lead to unforgettable shared experiences. The world becomes even more vibrant and unpredictable when explored alongside companions who share your passion for adventure.

A Unique RPG Experience:

While Outward may not be for everyone, its unforgiving yet captivating gameplay offers a truly unique RPG experience. Players seeking a challenging, immersive adventure grounded in realism will find much to appreciate. The game’s emphasis on survival, crafting, and player agency creates a world where every decision has consequences and every victory feels hard-earned.

Prepare to embrace the harsh beauty of Aurai, for within its unforgiving landscapes lies an adventure unlike any other. Outward awaits those who dare to venture beyond the familiar and carve their own path through a world teeming with both danger and wonder.