Outward

Outward is an open-world survival RPG that starved me of fun and left me thirsty for bug fixes and a better combat system.

A few rough edges don't stop Outward from being a gem of an RPG.

I am not incredibly enthused to fight more baddies in Outward. I’m not that excited to speak to more of its cardboardy NPCs. I’m not looking forward to getting up from my chair to do some light cardio while I wait for my character to warm up by a campfire in the middle of a snowstorm, so I don’t get diseased and have to trek to the nearest village for a herbal tea and sleep for a day before I’m healthy again. But that travel, maaaaan. It absolutely nails it.

Taken as a whole, Outward practically screams "cult classic." Its consistent challenge, cumbersome combat, and co-op systems won't resonate with everyone. But for a particular type of player—ones that don't mind trading dozens of frustrating moments for open-ended experiences—Nine Dot Studios' RPG is sure to find a dedicated audience. Outward's aspirations are commendable, but just like its protagonist, the end result is just average.

Outward may aim high but is most definitely flawed, constituting a game just above par that's most ideal for RPG enthusiasts.

Outward's survival focus oftentimes feels skin-deep, but still manages to provide a unique perspective on the drawbacks of overly-convenient design.

Good ideas and interesting systems held back by clunky combat and the occasional bad design decision, Outward is an RPG for a very specific pallet. You will either really like it, or find it insufferably aggravating.

Outward is a fun, challenging, if empty and slightly misguided, open-world roleplaying game where death is not only common, but guaranteed (do not be like me and accidentally drink the salt water; you will die … fast). Beautiful but hollow, Outward is an absolute must for those looking for something different, but be warned, you might bite off more than you can choose.

Outward isn't so much bad as it is outwardly bland. Bolstered by its genuinely endearing premise, and an emphasis on a more "human" approach to the RPG genre, the title is simultaneously held back by lacklustre presentation, an underwhelming combat system, and a main game that goes on far too long to justify the onslaught of hostility thrown at the player.

Outward is an ambitious game which lays a solid foundation that can be improved and expanded upon in future updates or a potential sequel.