The Outlast Trials Review (Skinny Suge)
The Outlast Trials
First Impressions
When I first heard that Red Barrels, the creators of the first two Outlast games, were planning to make a co-op game in this universe, I was skeptical. I thought it wouldn’t capture the dreadful atmosphere of the originals. However, when I got access to the closed beta on October 28, 2022, I completely changed my mind. This game truly surprised me in a great way! What I found wasn’t just something different, it was a fresh, terrifying evolution of Outlast.
What’s the Story?
The game is set in a dark Cold War-era facility where the evil Murkoff corporation conducts brutal psychological experiments on humans. The player takes on the role of one of the test objects, trying to survive the terrifying trials and uncover the corporation's dark secrets, through documents available in the game.
Gameplay
• The game's core mechanics focus on stealth and survival, with limited items to scavenge along the way and no real combat, aside from throwing bottles or bricks at enemies to stun them.
• Trails can be experienced solo or in cooperative mode, where you can team up with up to four players for a more intense and dynamic experience.
• Character progression is key, with a max level of 75. As you play, you can unlock permanent upgrades, like faster stamina regen, health recovery, or more inventory space etc. There are 6 rigs (classes) to choose from: Stun, Blind, Heal, X-Ray, Barricade, and Jammer. You can also unlock perks in three categories: tool, skill, and medicine. All of this is designed to make gameplay easier and more enjoyable.
Graphics and Audio
Red Barrels did a great job with the visuals, creating a unique and terrifying atmosphere that adds to the tension of the game. The sound fits well with the Outlast series, it's not bad, and it helps create a creepy, immersive environment. For me, it's not too scary, but it definitely sets the right vibe.
Final Thoughts
Overall, The Outlast Trials sets a new standard for horror games with a co-op twist. Whether you're playing alone or with friends, it offers hours of exciting and intense gameplay. If you're looking for a fun and thrilling experience, this game won’t let you down. It's also well-optimized for Steam Deck, offering smooth performance on the go.
Final Score: 9/10