Outward 2, the upcoming survival RPG from the developers of the original Outward, has entered Early Access on PC, offering a glimpse into its brutally challenging world. This hands-on preview delves into the improvements and the frustrations that come with this unforgiving adventure. For players seeking a game that demands absolute vigilance and mastery, Outward 2 might just be the ultimate test of endurance.
Quick Facts — Outward 2
| Platform(s) | PC |
|---|---|
| Release Date | Early Access (no specific date) |
| Genre | Action RPG, Survival RPG |
The game's appeal lies in its ability to cater to a hardcore audience, much like its predecessor, which garnered a passionate cult following despite mixed critical reviews. Outward 2's design philosophy, akin to playing Fallout: New Vegas in Hardcore mode combined with the combat intensity of Dark Souls, will undoubtedly resonate with fans of punishing gameplay. However, the current Early Access state is plagued by issues that might deter all but the most dedicated players.
A Drastically Improved Character Creation & Player Resource System
One of the standout improvements in Outward 2 is its character creation system, ditching traditional classes and races for a more nuanced approach based on backgrounds and personality traits. Each trait selection, such as the "Book Worm" trait which increases Intelligence at the cost of Strength, significantly impacts starting stats, allowing for a high degree of customization. The appearance customization has also seen a massive overhaul, with a plethora of options for body shape, face design, and hairstyles, making the character feel truly personalized.
The player resource system has also been revamped, with crafting playing a crucial role in survival. Players must manage resources carefully to craft healing items, better weapons, and traps, all of which are essential for navigating the dangerous world. The introduction of mules for gear transport is a welcome addition, reducing the need for constant back-and-forth between locations, though their vulnerability in combat adds another layer of strategy.
Go West, Young Adventurer
The Early Access demo begins in Simeon's Bastion, one of three planned starting locations, set within the kingdom of Lavant. This gorgeous, explorable city is full of NPCs and shops, though the lack of fast travel points quickly becomes apparent. The game's world is rich in detail, with a dynamic that demands constant vigilance—forgetting to wear a hat can lead to sunstroke, illustrating the game's commitment to survival mechanics.
Crafting and resource management are pivotal, with the player needing to balance exploration with the necessity of returning to safe havens to manage gear and resources. The absence of traditional experience points and levels, replaced by stat boosts gained through actions (like killing enemies to increase Strength), encourages engagement with all aspects of the game world.
Prepare to Die (A Lot)
Outward 2's combat and survival elements are where the game's brutality shines, though not always in a positive light. The game demands meticulous preparation—drinking water, eating, and managing stamina—before engaging in combat, with failure to do so leading to swift punishment. Combat itself, while improved with more varied attacks and an emphasis on positioning, is frequently interrupted by the game's jankiness.
The lack of levels and the permanent loss of gear upon death (temporarily, until retrieved) can be frustrating, especially given the high cost of items and the time required for crafting. This system, while intended to encourage strategic play, often feels punitive, contrasting sharply with more forgiving systems found in other RPGs.
Jank is the True Villain of Outward 2
Despite its ambitions, Outward 2's Early Access state is riddled with issues that severely impact the gaming experience. Environmental sticking points, stuttering with multiple enemies, and an inexplicable darkness indoors and at night (despite maxed brightness settings) are just a few of the jankiness players must endure. The punishing AI of human enemies, who seem to have limitless stamina and speed, further exacerbates the frustration.
For hardcore fans of the original Outward, these challenges might be seen as part of the game's charm. However, for most players, the combination of punishing difficulty, lacking polish, and frustrating technical issues will outweigh the game's depth and challenge, at least in its current state.
In conclusion, Outward 2 is a game that knows its audience—hardcore survival RPG enthusiasts who crave a challenge that pushes them to their limits. While it promises much with its improved character creation and deep resource management, the current Early Access build is a testament to the patience (and perseverance) required to enjoy it. With time and polish, Outward 2 could become a standout title in its genre; for now, it remains a brutal, janky adventure suited only for the most dedicated.