Outward: Definitive Edition - Review After 100%

Introduction

Introduction

What's going on everybody, Mortum here. This time I'm bringing you my review after 100 hours of playing Outward: Definitive Edition. I do want to start by mentioning that I previously did a sponsored video for its launch, but this review is completely unsponsored and unbiased. I commonly review games after spending 100 hours on them, aiming to provide a more thorough perspective that includes achievements and other in-depth experiences. If you're new to the channel, I'd suggest checking out my intro video to understand more about what I cover.

General Setup and Story

Outward can be quite polarizing, primarily because it is a survival game first and foremost, even though it incorporates many RPG elements. Developed by Nine Dot Studios from Canada, it's a double-A production with a certain degree of jankiness.

You start the game bearing a ‘blood price,’ a familial debt enforced by the Blue Chamber Collective. This faction values survival of the group over individuals. There are other factions with different ideologies on the blood price and the game's central conflict revolves around these differences as well as combating a scourge of beasts.

Character Creation and Progression

Character creation in Outward is simple and mainly cosmetic, but it crucially introduces the legacy system. Here, items placed in legacy chests can be inherited by new characters, often upgrading in the process.

Character progression is centered around skills and gear. Combat skills often depend on buffs or boons, and the most effective builds require using skills in conjunction. Trainers scattered throughout the game provide skills, with three breakthrough points allowing specialization.

Combat Mechanics

Combat in Outward emphasizes survival over sheer fighting prowess. Early-game combat is resource-intensive and typically not worth the effort. The game offers a rich preparation-focused combat system where weight and backpack management are crucial. Magic, in particular, stands out due to its ritualistic and intricate system of buffs and spells.

Gameplay and World-Building

Outward has a steep learning curve, dumping all survival mechanics on the player almost immediately. You’ll need to balance needs like food, water, sleep, and temperature while exploring six different zones. Even travel is resource-based, requiring travel rations to move between zones.

If you’re reduced to zero health, you don’t die but instead experience a defeat scenario, losing valuable time but not progression.

Key Factions

Factions in Outward include:

• The Blue Chamber Collective
• The Heroic Kingdom of Levant
• The Holy Mission of Elatt
• The Soroborians (DLC faction)

Each faction has its storylines and quest paths, with the Soroborians offering the most unique and enriched experience.

DLC Content

Soroborians DLC adds magical builds and an engaging enchantment system, enhancing the early to mid-game experiences.

Three Brothers DLC is end-game content packed with challenges and a city-building mechanic that expands gameplay significantly but is seldom experienced by most players due to its difficulty.

Summary of Positives and Negatives

Positives:

• Intricate survival mechanics with a rewarding progression system
• Exceptional and arcane magic system
• Engaging faction dynamics and varied storylines

Negatives:

• Tedious walking without a streamlined fast travel system
• Rough initial gameplay experience that may be off-putting

Conclusion

Outward: Definitive Edition excels in being what it's meant to be—a survival RPG with intricate mechanics. The game offers immense satisfaction once you cross the initial steep learning curve. Although it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate its depth will find it well worth the investment.

Keywords

• Outward
• Definitive Edition
• Survival RPG
• Blue Chamber Collective
• Heroic Kingdom of Levant
• Holy Mission of Elatt
• Soroborians DLC
• Three Brothers DLC
• Character Progression
• Combat Mechanics
• Magic System
• World-Building

FAQ

Q: Is Outward: Definitive Edition a good game for casual players?

A: Outward can be challenging for casual players due to its intensive survival mechanics and steep learning curve. However, those willing to invest the time will find it rewarding.

Q: How long does it take to understand the game mechanics?

A: It can take several hours to fully understand the basics of Outward. The game doesn’t ease you into its mechanics, so there is a significant learning period.

Q: Can you play Outward in co-op mode?

A: Yes, Outward supports both online and split-screen co-op. This can make the game easier and more enjoyable, especially during the challenging early stages.

Q: What makes the magic system in Outward unique?

A: The magic system in Outward is complex and ritualistic, often requiring a combination of spells, buffs, and preparation to be effective. This system is highly rewarding for players who invest the time to understand it.

Q: Are the DLCs worth it?

A: The Soroborians DLC adds significant value with unique factions and early access to powerful magic. The Three Brothers DLC offers challenging end-game content but is best suited for dedicated players.