Outlast

 PlayStation 4
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 33
  3. Negative: 0 out of 33
  1. Play UK
    Mar 10, 2014
    73
    A great example of the new wave of indie horror, Outlast isn't revolutionary or particularly terrifying, but some great jump scares and a fun, cheesy story make it well worth checking out. [Issue#241, p.72]
    All this publication's reviews
  2. Telegraph
    Feb 22, 2014
    70
    The terrifying debut of Red Barrels is a masterclass in the art of video game horror that is stretched a little thin.
  3. DarkStation
    Feb 21, 2014
    70
    Perhaps if it had taken a page from Gone Home and had been developed as a horror-themed exploration game sans enemies, then Outlast would have been more effective. Take away the tedious patrol route study and stealth conventions and Outlast could be the cause for many, many sleepless nights.
  5. GameOver.gr
    Feb 19, 2014
    70
    Even though it can't be justified as a "true next-gen" game Outlast is one the scariest videogame experiences ever created.
  6. GameSpot
    Feb 13, 2014
    70
    Outlast's few weak moments are overshadowed by the effectiveness with which it so often gets inside your head and scares the hell out of you.
  7. Gameblog.fr
    Feb 7, 2014
    70
    Whether on PC or PS4, Outlast is not so impressive visually, but it has a terrific atmosphere that will scare all players. It would have been better with a wide variety of gameplay situations, though.
  8. Hardcore Gamer
    Feb 6, 2014
    70
    It has its share of frustrating moments and doesn’t offer much gameplay depth, but at its best Outlast is an engaging and immersive horror experience that will have you clutching your controller in terror.
  9. Metro GameCentral
    Feb 5, 2014
    70
    Repetition and overfamiliarity are always the best ways to nullify fear, but until they set in this is one of the most effectively scary video games ever made.
  10. Game Revolution
    Feb 4, 2014
    70
    If you already own the PC version, there is absolutely zero reason to purchase this again. On the other hand, Sony is releasing it for free for PS members right off the bat, which is a tough price to argue down.

Awards & Rankings

49
#49 Best PS4 Game of 2014
25
#25 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2014
29
#29 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2014

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 995 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 729 out of 995
  2. Mixed: 192 out of 995
  3. Negative: 74 out of 995
  1. Vorexum
    Feb 4, 2014
    10
    This game is amazing! I have it for both PC and now PS4. Overall this game is probably one of the most spookiest games I've played in awhile!This game is amazing! I have it for both PC and now PS4. Overall this game is probably one of the most spookiest games I've played in awhile! Also if your a PS Plus member it's free! That's the best part, even though I would buy it again if it wasnt. To be honest I first thought this game would be like the rest of the horror genre which is all action now but it isn't..it's a classic! Instead of shooting you actually have to hide which makes the game even scarier! Overall this game is great for people who like horror and challenging games or just for people that want to have some jumpscares and be spooked out! This an amazing game and of you have PS plus don't miss this opportunity!… Full Review »
  2. JackValentine
    Feb 5, 2014
    9
    Outlast is a horrifying thrill ride that's only downfall is the attempted implication of a poorly realized story.

    You are a reported,    Outlast is a horrifying thrill ride that's only downfall is the attempted implication of a poorly realized story.

    You are a reported, self-tasked with taking a trip to Mount Massive Asylum, where a mass outbreak of some kind has taken place, and the promise of big story awaits.
    Apart from trying to ram something about religious cults, and science experiments gone wrong down your throat, that's about as far as the story goes.
    Having said that, the story is hardly why you'll be downloading this on you PS4 with PS Plus this month. You'll be downloading it because this is by far one of the best horror games I have played in years.

    While playing through the 4-5 hour story, I was reminded that the last time I was this immersed in such a terrifying atmosphere was probably back in 2006 with Condemned: Criminal Origins on the Xbox 360. In Condemned, despite being able to fend off your foes with a bit of pipe or a piece of 2x4, you still felt incredibly vulnerable.
    That feeling is multiplied in Outlast, as there are no weapons, and the ability to defend yourself has been removed. If an enemy sees you, your only option is to run. Even if you find somewhere to hide, perhaps a locker or under a bed, you are never truly safe. If an enemy was too close to you when you entered the hiding spot, they have have seen or heard you. If there is only the one bed in the room, they know exactly where to look.
    It's these moments that make Outlast so special. Yes, the scripted jump scares are there, and because they are few and far between, they always pack a big shock value. But it's when you are free to roam the seemingly endless hallways of a ward in the Mount Massive Asylum, where the footsteps of an inmate echo throughout that the true sense of terror sets in.

    The game mechanics are, in one word, solid. This is a good example of how a PC game can successfully be ported to a console. You always have access to the commands you need via the bumpers and triggers, and by pushing or clicking the analog sticks. The touch pad has been used in order to zoom in or out with the camcorder, however, I found just as easy to use up or down on the D-Pad.

    Overall, Outlast is a welcome addition to the PS4 library in a time where the system is lacking in games. And seeing as it's free, you'd be stupid not to download it and try it just once.

    A 9 out of 10.

    Jack Valentine    … Full Review »
  3. Lozsta
    Mar 10, 2014
    0
    Boring boring boring. Cannot describe how much this game angers me. It isn't scary, it is just incredibly loud when the music kicks in. ABoring boring boring. Cannot describe how much this game angers me. It isn't scary, it is just incredibly loud when the music kicks in. A bit like how adverts between TV programmes are always slightly higher in volume well this game takes that to the extreme.

    I would have turned the music down a tad but guess what you cannot adjust the music. Completely overrated game I wouldn't wish on anyone.

    "ah a FPS with no weapons, must vote it great" really no just don't it is awful. Save your bandwidth.    … Full Review »
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