Outer Wilds

 PlayStation 4
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 268 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 203 out of 268
  2. Mixed: 26 out of 268
  3. Negative: 39 out of 268
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  1. tommydlbass
    Sep 19, 2021
    8
    One of the most original games I have ever played, and one of the most frustrating too. Is a masterpiece but the gameplay and performance of this game on a slim ps4 makes it difficult to put it higher. The story is really good and the surprises this game gives to the player sadly lost enchants after a few hours playing it and doing the same thing over and over. Overall is a game that youOne of the most original games I have ever played, and one of the most frustrating too. Is a masterpiece but the gameplay and performance of this game on a slim ps4 makes it difficult to put it higher. The story is really good and the surprises this game gives to the player sadly lost enchants after a few hours playing it and doing the same thing over and over. Overall is a game that you have to play if you like art and is a worth story to experience. Don't expect a shooting space game because this is not what it is.… Expand
  2. CossackGamer
    Jul 11, 2020
    9
    A wonderful, must play game.

    This game perfects a game mechanic perhaps only seen in Majoras mask. Despite a slow start, this game becomes a masterpiece of a puzzle game...or a puzzles within a puzzle game?!
  3. Photomodepurist
    Nov 8, 2022
    10
    The absolute best game I have ever played, without exaggeration or hyperbole. It touches emotions and captures feelings that no other game I’ve ever played has even thought about. Hell, no movie or book has made me feel the way this game has either. It’s an absolutely monumental achievement of game design, writing and music all operating in absolute harmony. A once in a generation, orThe absolute best game I have ever played, without exaggeration or hyperbole. It touches emotions and captures feelings that no other game I’ve ever played has even thought about. Hell, no movie or book has made me feel the way this game has either. It’s an absolutely monumental achievement of game design, writing and music all operating in absolute harmony. A once in a generation, or perhaps even once in a lifetime game. I’ve played the Metal Gear Solid series, Halo, Shadow of the Colossus, Dark Souls - all the classics, and nothing comes close. Not only has playing this changed how I think about video games, but has affected my outlook on life in a very profound way. Stop reading this and play it, I cannot put words to the height of my praise for this game.… Expand
  4. FrankTheTank08
    Sep 10, 2022
    10
    Outer Wilds is one of the best game ever made. It's one of those hidden gems, a diamond in the rough so to speak. The soundtrack of this game is a mixture of happiness, delight, joy, adventure, homeliness, hopefulness and also, fear, terror, and sadness. Andrew Prahlow created an amazing soundtrack that fits with this game so well that if it wasn't there then the game would lose most ofOuter Wilds is one of the best game ever made. It's one of those hidden gems, a diamond in the rough so to speak. The soundtrack of this game is a mixture of happiness, delight, joy, adventure, homeliness, hopefulness and also, fear, terror, and sadness. Andrew Prahlow created an amazing soundtrack that fits with this game so well that if it wasn't there then the game would lose most of it's value. The soundtrack is so emotional especially no really only if you've beaten the game, Generally The game is so emotional to the point that it can't be considered a casual video game for fun but a masterpiece of art. 99% of people who play the whole game through agree that it is an amazing experience and it must be played with as little knowledge of the game it's self before playing. I urge anyone who is reading this review to please go into the game blind. Don't look up guides for any of the puzzles. Trust me when I say this. Once you are done with the game you will wish to wipe your memory of the game and play it over again as if you were playing again for the first time.… Expand
  5. VcNuggets
    Dec 8, 2019
    8
    Certainly was not expecting the thrill I got from this game. It's hard to compare to any other game because it sits uniquely in its own little world. The heavy use of physics reminds me of Kerbal Space Program. It does a great job making you feel a sense of awe and terror as you fly around a solar system exploring.

    Expect to die a lot and in some brutal ways I would not wish on anyone.    Certainly was not expecting the thrill I got from this game. It's hard to compare to any other game because it sits uniquely in its own little world. The heavy use of physics reminds me of Kerbal Space Program. It does a great job making you feel a sense of awe and terror as you fly around a solar system exploring.

    Expect to die a lot and in some brutal ways I would not wish on anyone.

    I did near the end get a little fatigued after I thoroughly explored most of the world. It does not give you a lot of direction where to go so at some point you might find yourself looking up a video walkthrough to move forward in the story. The ending is trippy and makes you think.    … Expand
  6. adecarter
    Nov 1, 2019
    10
    Good writing, humour, minimal bloat. Old skool, but in a good way. Not perfect, but really enjoyed it
  7. Karass
    Nov 8, 2019
    9
    I had not heard of the game prior to buying it and must admit Im having a lot of fun exploring the different worlds and story. This is not new vegas or fallout but Obsidian did great once again, minus some minor bugs that will probably get fixed soon. Definitely one of the best of this genre to come out this year.
  8. Apoclucian
    Dec 3, 2019
    10
    This game is amazing. The sense of discovery and mystery is great and I love how empty and cold space feels. In a weird way, the game kind of reminds me of Myst or Riven. But it's an evolution of that genre, and I love it.
  9. Danni25
    Nov 14, 2019
    9
    Great game with a lot of paths you can go on, good story and a lot of dialogue for people who like that. Combat system could be better and feels a bit rushed. Items in this game are awesome but would like to see more options over armour. This game has one big flaw for me though as it has no grenades in it. For a game like that it must be a auto include for me, although there is a grenadeGreat game with a lot of paths you can go on, good story and a lot of dialogue for people who like that. Combat system could be better and feels a bit rushed. Items in this game are awesome but would like to see more options over armour. This game has one big flaw for me though as it has no grenades in it. For a game like that it must be a auto include for me, although there is a grenade launcher in this game.… Expand
  10. SuperDuck23
    Feb 11, 2020
    8
    Outer Wilds is a game that you should go into completely cold as there are lots of surprises to be had. It's a very intriguing exploration experience that can at times be very relaxing but can also give you moments of sheer awe. In a way, the game is nearly what I hoped No Man's Sky would be when it launched in 2016. I highly recommend that you give Outer Wilds a try to encounter all theOuter Wilds is a game that you should go into completely cold as there are lots of surprises to be had. It's a very intriguing exploration experience that can at times be very relaxing but can also give you moments of sheer awe. In a way, the game is nearly what I hoped No Man's Sky would be when it launched in 2016. I highly recommend that you give Outer Wilds a try to encounter all the mysteries for yourself.… Expand
  11. RidingHeidi
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    I just loved this game. I enjoyed how it really made me care about the lore. Every detail important. PS4 version crashed every 10 resets or so, which was annoying.
  12. SunnyLessie
    Sep 13, 2020
    10
    Cross my heart, this is one of the best games I ever played. A completely innovative way of gameplay and story telling.
  13. Freshtbh
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    I think you simply need to play this game. It's so well crafted and is simply unlike anything I've ever played. You need an open mind, to be able to think outside of the box and to enjoy a ride. One of the only games I though about when not playing. Many of the advancements you can make are simply working out sething while having a little think.

    I get the negative reviews, but if you play    I think you simply need to play this game. It's so well crafted and is simply unlike anything I've ever played. You need an open mind, to be able to think outside of the box and to enjoy a ride. One of the only games I though about when not playing. Many of the advancements you can make are simply working out sething while having a little think.

    I get the negative reviews, but if you play it like warzone and rush it you'll be worse off. Seasoned gamers and especially RPG players will get it straight away.    … Expand
  14. Pastriof
    May 31, 2020
    10
    Mind blowing unique adventure, which will leave warm memories and unrepeatable expirience (heh, unrepeatable, you get it?).
  15. Gamer1988
    Nov 3, 2021
    10
    WOW - there are some real IDIOTS reviewing this game and downvoting it. Honestly one of the best games I've played. Can't say too much as really the best way to experience this game is to go in totally blind. It is so completely different to anything I have EVER played in my life. I went in not expecting much, but after an hour or so I had to keep going to uncover the mystery of itWOW - there are some real IDIOTS reviewing this game and downvoting it. Honestly one of the best games I've played. Can't say too much as really the best way to experience this game is to go in totally blind. It is so completely different to anything I have EVER played in my life. I went in not expecting much, but after an hour or so I had to keep going to uncover the mystery of it all. The locations are absolutely distinct from one another e.g. a planet with a black hole at its core, a planet that acts like an hour glass, a planet with tornados - it's all so amazing. People complaining about the 22 minute time loop - my god man, it's a core part pf the game/story, think about it for more than 5 seconds (or go and play COD or something else actually). It reminded me of a video game version of Interstellar.

    If you want to, the game is perfect for short bursts of gaming if you dont have a lot of time - due to the 22 minute time loop. There is actually one idiot in these reviews who has complained about this, saying they dont have time to lose all their progress every 22 minutes - YOU DONT LOSE ANYTHING YOU DAMN FOOL.

    When you finally uncover all of the mystery it all comes together in such wonderful story - and the way it is told is incredible.

    And that soundtrack...oh my, just amazing.

    Do yourself a huge favour and pick it up, and prepare to be blown away/swept away by it.

    The one bad thing about this game? I can't erase my memory and do it all again - I'm jealous of anyone going into this game fresh.

    I'm now playing through the DLC which is just as good as/if not better than the base game.

    If you're into sci-fi/story telling - this is a MUST for you.    … Expand
  16. wiiroy
    Mar 15, 2021
    10
    I don’t understand how anyone hasn’t given this game a 10. What is wrong with you people?
  17. Clockworknait
    Jan 26, 2020
    10
    Amazing freaking game . If you love exploring youll love this game, im not even halfway through and im hooked . I cant believe half the stuff they did in it let alone without loading screens...insane
  18. Gfortus
    Jan 11, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Outer Wilds is one of the few games that blew me away in this decade, the amount of world building, and freedom that the game gives you is spectacular, the gameplay is unique and inovative and the game progresses gradually according to the players curiosity, truly an amazing experience… Expand
  19. Salchipapa84
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. The first hour is frustrating, and then the narrative and sense of wonder builds. The writing is incredible as is the quality of the world building. To me it feels like a real place. The music design is also perfect - that instrumental that plays at the end of every cycle. Some of the puzzles are frustrating, but the rewards are well worth it. TheOne of the best games I've ever played. The first hour is frustrating, and then the narrative and sense of wonder builds. The writing is incredible as is the quality of the world building. To me it feels like a real place. The music design is also perfect - that instrumental that plays at the end of every cycle. Some of the puzzles are frustrating, but the rewards are well worth it. The end is unforgettable.… Expand
  20. ernestgeneral
    Feb 5, 2020
    10
    Outer Wilds has been one of the best surprises I have ever had with a game. I understand it’s not for everyone, but in my opinion it shines in everything it tries. Good visuals, an outstanding soundtrack (one of the best of 2019), an interesting story (that always makes you want to know more about it), and an incredible gameplay (difficult at first, but when you get the hang of it, it'sOuter Wilds has been one of the best surprises I have ever had with a game. I understand it’s not for everyone, but in my opinion it shines in everything it tries. Good visuals, an outstanding soundtrack (one of the best of 2019), an interesting story (that always makes you want to know more about it), and an incredible gameplay (difficult at first, but when you get the hang of it, it's jus a blast going from a planet to the other discovering the secrets of this mysterious solar system). As a conclusion, a masterpiece every fan of adventure games that doesn’t mind free exploration and getting lost should at least give a go.… Expand
  21. Rubje
    Dec 18, 2021
    10
    If you want something new, something fresh, some great storytelling while delivering the best space exploration feeling in a game ever? Go play this game.
  22. Mazzaskarlanty
    Aug 23, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. this game is awesome, it's a that isn't normal, the fear of exploration it's incredible, the exploration is original, you will never know the end before you explore everything, every planet and every test it is different from the previous one. I recomed this game, not beacouse the graphics and the sound, i recomended beacouse the game.… Expand
  23. pedroabib
    Jul 28, 2020
    10
    Jogo videogames a 2 anos, e nunca vi nada como esse jogo, uma obra de arte quase perfeita, onde sua curiosidade é combustivel para a história, com um roteiro incrível e toda uma história completa, fazendo vc se encantar a cada nova descoberta, todas interligadas, por mais que vc possa escolher aonde e quando explorar cada planeta, todas as informações são importantes, e levam a final MUITOJogo videogames a 2 anos, e nunca vi nada como esse jogo, uma obra de arte quase perfeita, onde sua curiosidade é combustivel para a história, com um roteiro incrível e toda uma história completa, fazendo vc se encantar a cada nova descoberta, todas interligadas, por mais que vc possa escolher aonde e quando explorar cada planeta, todas as informações são importantes, e levam a final MUITO emocionante, não podia ser melhor, o jogo da minha vida, e acho q é por experiencias como essa que jogo e consumo videogames.… Expand
  24. OZONA
    Oct 24, 2021
    10
    Anyone who doesn’t think that this is the best game ever can fight me. (Review is supposed to be 75 characters)
  25. Moderngamesucc
    Jun 30, 2022
    9
    Ohh Outer Wilds, in the void of crap games, you shine as a beacon. Take me home to the world of perfectly crafted mystery and exploration. One of the best games ever made, the DLC is absolutley unbelievable. Modern game design doesnt get better than this. Its a diamond in the very, very rough rough that we find ourselves in as modern day gamers in the hellscape
  26. djbarker
    Mar 10, 2021
    9
    A very magical game. Exploration, research and puzzle solving in an incredibly well-thought-out place.
    It made me feel true wonder, excitement and elation, plus sadness and at one point, true gut-wrenching horror (just from reading some text).
    Controls are a bit glitchy, but otherwise this is perfect.
  27. drlowdon
    Jan 23, 2022
    8
    Whilst preparing for their maiden flight, an alien space explorer inadvertently becomes ‘paired’ with a mysterious statue made by a now extinct race known as the Nomai. Shortly after launch the player then discovers they’re trapped in a time loop, and the only way to find out what’s going on is to explore the solar system.

    Outer Wilds offers almost no guidance on what you’re supposed to    Whilst preparing for their maiden flight, an alien space explorer inadvertently becomes ‘paired’ with a mysterious statue made by a now extinct race known as the Nomai. Shortly after launch the player then discovers they’re trapped in a time loop, and the only way to find out what’s going on is to explore the solar system.

    Outer Wilds offers almost no guidance on what you’re supposed to do, or where you’re supposed to go, and instead lets players head off in whatever direction they choose to discover the mysteries of the universe for themselves. This sort of lack of guidance can be a big issue in some games, but it works here because there always seems to be something interesting to discover whichever planet you choose to explore. Piecing together the history of the Nomai and the reason for the time loop makes for a truly rewarding gaming experience, and aside from a couple of obtuse puzzles towards the end of the game (I had to use a guide in the end), there is very little I could criticise this game for.    … Expand
  28. ReKflYer
    Feb 27, 2022
    10
    - A rich, enthralling solar system to explore, with such varied planets and places that made me feel like the universe’s best archeologist.
    - A series of meticulously crafted puzzle mechanics and physics that interact with the player to pave the way for wild experimentation, not always successful, but always satisfying.
    - A soundtrack that literally could not be improved if you tried, it    - A rich, enthralling solar system to explore, with such varied planets and places that made me feel like the universe’s best archeologist.
    - A series of meticulously crafted puzzle mechanics and physics that interact with the player to pave the way for wild experimentation, not always successful, but always satisfying.
    - A soundtrack that literally could not be improved if you tried, it is PERFECT.
    - A story so well written and in such a bold, creative format that emboldened my sense of adventure that the game cultivates within you, leading you to discover things that will make you jump for joy or cry in earnest. The themes presented in Outer Wilds are ones of intense loneliness, inevitability’, and curiosity.

    Do not gloss over this game. It may not hold your hand like Pokemon does, but it will truly make you proud of your own achievements as an individual, because YOU landed there, YOU discovered that, YOU solved this. I have never experienced anything like it, and I doubt any other video game will touch me in the same way that Outer Wilds did. This game is a masterpiece, and may not be recognised as such, which is why I’m writing this review, to hopefully encourage someone to pick this game up on a whim and get completely and utterly lost in this game.    … Expand
  29. AntrakosMC
    Jul 5, 2020
    10
    Simply put a masterpiece, a game like no other.
    It emphasizes on player's learning and reinforces the idea of power of knowledge.
    Visual story telling is top notch, there are only a handful of ways to interact with the world but it is put to its limit always interchanging different mechanics and using all of your arsenal. Game design is what puts this game above others with only one    Simply put a masterpiece, a game like no other.
    It emphasizes on player's learning and reinforces the idea of power of knowledge.
    Visual story telling is top notch, there are only a handful of ways to interact with the world but it is put to its limit always interchanging different mechanics and using all of your arsenal.
    Game design is what puts this game above others with only one shortcoming (yes, stealth mission, I am looking at you). There's very little hand helding and you are free to explore this vast and beautiful world at your own pace but there's always something pushing you in the right direction ever so slightly.
    This game is a must have experience for everyone especially if you love feeling if immersion and exploration    … Expand
  30. AlvaroK95
    Oct 4, 2022
    10
    No solo es una obra maestra, sino que es ÚNICO. No te informes sobre nada del juego, pues cuanto menos sepas más lo disfrutarás, ya que se basa en la exploración y el descubrimiento.
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Awards & Rankings

28
#28 Best PS4 Game of 2019
47
#47 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
82

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Nov 18, 2019
    90
    Whether you want to play explorer, detective, or Bill Murray, Outer Wilds has you covered. We’ll say it again: one of the best games you’ll play this year. [Issue#169, p.93]
  2. Push Square
    Nov 2, 2019
    70
    This is a game that presents itself in a unique way, and trusts you to put together its compelling mystery without assistance.
    Read full review
  3. COGconnected
    Oct 29, 2019
    76
    In the end, Outer Wilds is all about exploring a mysterious solar system and finding out its secrets. I had a fun time flying around in space and it’s good for the gaming industry as a whole to have an adventure game like this that’s about exploring a world without having to shoot or fight enemies. However, Outer Wilds doesn’t do a great job at guiding players. Instead, you are left aimlessly exploring until you figure out what to do next.
    Read full review
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