Outward - A Grinding, Grim Fantasy RPG That Tests Your Mettle

Outward isn’t your typical fantasy RPG; it throws away hand-holding and preaches a philosophy of “learn or die” right from the get-go. Picture this: you’re not some chosen hero destined to save the world – you’re just an average Joe (or Josephine) who needs to pay their rent. This seemingly mundane task is your first quest, driving home the point that survival comes before grand destiny.

Developed by Nine Dots Studio and published in 2019, Outward quickly gained a dedicated following for its unique blend of challenging gameplay, gritty realism, and captivating open-world exploration. It’s a game that throws you into the deep end, forcing you to rely on your wits, cunning, and perhaps a few hastily-conjured healing potions to survive.

Let’s dive deeper into what makes Outward tick:

Plot and Setting:

Outward’s world is Aurai, a land steeped in ancient mysteries and fraught with danger. The story begins humbly – you are tasked with paying off your debt to the local alchemist guild by retrieving rare ingredients from the wilds surrounding your home village. However, as you venture beyond familiar paths, you’ll stumble upon lost ruins, encounter treacherous creatures, and uncover fragments of a lore steeped in forgotten magic.

The overarching narrative is one of self-discovery and resilience. You are not given a pre-determined destiny; instead, you forge your own path through the choices you make and the challenges you overcome. This open-ended approach to storytelling encourages players to experiment with different playstyles and explore Aurai at their own pace.

Gameplay Mechanics:

Outward’s gameplay is refreshingly unorthodox in a genre often dominated by formulaic conventions.

Here are some key elements that set it apart:

• Stamina System: Unlike many RPGs, Outward emphasizes the importance of stamina management. Every action, from swinging your sword to sprinting across the plains, depletes your precious stamina bar. Mismanage this resource, and you’ll find yourself left vulnerable to attacks or struggling to escape perilous situations.

• Permadeath (Optional): For those seeking a truly hardcore experience, Outward offers an optional permadeath mode. Should your character meet their untimely demise in this unforgiving world, all progress is lost forever. It’s a choice that demands serious consideration – are you prepared to face the consequences of failure with permanent ramifications?

• Dynamic Weather System: Aurai’s weather patterns aren’t just window dressing; they actively influence gameplay. A sudden snowstorm can obscure visibility, making it difficult to navigate treacherous terrain. Torrential rain might chill you to the bone, requiring you to find shelter or risk succumbing to hypothermia.

• Crafting and Survival: Gathering resources, crafting equipment, and managing your hunger and thirst are essential for survival in Aurai. You’ll need to hunt wild animals for food, chop wood for fuel, and forage for medicinal herbs to create potions that can heal injuries and cure diseases.

Production Features and Aesthetics:

Outward’s world is rendered with a unique blend of realism and stylized visuals. The landscapes are diverse, ranging from lush forests and towering mountains to arid deserts and treacherous swamps. While the character models may not be cutting-edge in terms of graphical fidelity, they possess a distinct charm that complements the game’s overall aesthetic.

The soundtrack plays a crucial role in immersing players in Aurai’s atmosphere. A blend of haunting melodies and evocative ambient soundscapes evokes a sense of wonder and isolation as you explore this unforgiving world.

Challenges and Rewards:

Outward is undoubtedly a challenging game, demanding patience, strategic thinking, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. Combat encounters are often tense and unforgiving, requiring players to carefully analyze enemy weaknesses and exploit openings. Bosses present formidable obstacles that will test your skills and mastery of the game’s mechanics.

However, overcoming these challenges is incredibly rewarding. Each victory, whether it’s defeating a fearsome beast or successfully navigating a treacherous dungeon, feels earned and satisfying. As you progress, you’ll unlock new skills, acquire powerful gear, and uncover secrets that will deepen your understanding of Aurai’s lore.

Should You Play Outward?

If you’re seeking an RPG experience that defies convention and pushes you to the brink of your gaming abilities, then Outward is worth considering. Its blend of challenging gameplay, immersive world-building, and rewarding sense of progression will appeal to players who crave a truly unique and unforgettable adventure.

Just be prepared to die… a lot.