Outlast

 PlayStation 4
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

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  1. Jubilarian
    Apr 12, 2014
    8
    Outlast is, essentially, a DECENT horror game to me.
    In my opinion, it is more original than we've seen in past horror games.
    The gameplay of Outlast gets really repetitive once you're about 3 hours in. See bad enemy, run or hide, wait until enemy doesn't see you, continue, repeat. The story is okay, but the ending is disappointing and once you finish the game, you feel like it was    Outlast is, essentially, a DECENT horror game to me.
    In my opinion, it is more original than we've seen in past horror games.

    The gameplay of Outlast gets really repetitive once you're about 3 hours in.
    See bad enemy, run or hide, wait until enemy doesn't see you, continue, repeat.

    The story is okay, but the ending is disappointing and once you finish the game, you feel like it was for nothing.

    The graphics are great, and the level design is also excellent, with claustrophobic hallways or a prison full of insane people. This game is one of the best looking games now on the PS4.

    The sound of Outlast is the best thing about this game. Once you're walking along quietly, a loud sound comes when someone jumps at you, and the sound is what scares you.

    Overall, I enjoyed Outlast, but only in 2 hour sessions. Not because I was scared (I jumped LOTS of time playing this game), but because the gameplay got repetitive.

    Note: There is lots of sexual things and gore in this game that I felt was not that necessary.    … Expand
  2. Smeelzy
    Apr 8, 2014
    10
    Am I a Puss¥ I didn't think so! Until I played this.
    I lasted a full 16 minutes before my wife told me to harden up or turn it off.
    Screams of terror masked with pleasure.
    I am a horror fanatic, you name it I've seen it or played it.
    This game is terrifying I will try to play this game but in the end I'm afraid for
    My sanity.........

    Just for scares 10

    Absolutely love it.......
  3. Jbeezie
    Apr 6, 2014
    8
    I can't play Outlast for more than a few minutes at a time and that is a great thing. They throw every horror movie tactic at you and it all works because it is never stale. The game design and direction is perfect. The graphics aren't next gen but they don't need to be. Overall this game is a great and free with Playstation Plus! I would have had no regrets throwing some money down for this one.
  4. AwesomeNick94
    Apr 6, 2014
    7
    Unfortunately I think this game gets most of its praise because it was free. Not to say that this game isn't good, because it is.

    The graphics are great. The gameplay is just okay, though. I hadn't played a horror game up until this one, and, being the easy scare that I am, I was expecting to have nightmares for weeks. But I was only scared because of my own anticipation, really. The    Unfortunately I think this game gets most of its praise because it was free. Not to say that this game isn't good, because it is.

    The graphics are great. The gameplay is just okay, though. I hadn't played a horror game up until this one, and, being the easy scare that I am, I was expecting to have nightmares for weeks. But I was only scared because of my own anticipation, really. The atmosphere was great: The 'people' that 'weren't home', and my own character's journal entries as I went insane were engaging and interesting, but when it came down to action sequences that should've had me helplessly running away in fear, I actually felt entirely confident in my ability to survive, simply because after the first encounter I knew exactly how to dodge every enemy in the game, and this was the primary drawback; The gameplay was lackluster and repetitive. The story also didn't end in a way that left me satisfied, and didn't offer much closure.

    The game does offer quite a few scares in cutscenes and exploration of the asylum, just not in action sequences, which was a disappointment. It was fun while it lasted, though, and even more so with my roommate, as we both crept around the mount massive asylum.    … Expand
  5. Disgrav
    Mar 24, 2014
    7
    Boring. I played it on PS4 and I was completely disappointed. I'll have to wait and try other games, then I'll try with this again and I'll change my review if necessary.
  6. scarecrowman175
    Mar 22, 2014
    9
    Incredible game. The atmosphere is terrific and environments are creepy. The music is very fitting and quite honestly terrifying at times. It's a relatively short game, but in that time frame you will never feel like you're not in danger. The ending was VERY disappointing but even that can not take away from the awesome thrill ride that I took in Outlast. If you're looking for a goodIncredible game. The atmosphere is terrific and environments are creepy. The music is very fitting and quite honestly terrifying at times. It's a relatively short game, but in that time frame you will never feel like you're not in danger. The ending was VERY disappointing but even that can not take away from the awesome thrill ride that I took in Outlast. If you're looking for a good scare, get this game!… Expand
  7. AmazingKnight
    Mar 21, 2014
    9
    This is a great horror game. This is real horror. You want scary like the first Dead Space scary? Well here you go...This was a great title on the PS4 and it has a lot of potential for an initial franchise that could be linked to other story lines, I'd play the hell out of all those games. If you have a PS4 and you enjoy horror games, you owe it to yourself to give this game a shot.
  8. NutRoach
    Mar 21, 2014
    8
    Outlast delivers with its creepy atmosphere and on edge music, it also provides the players with plenty of scares to get the heart racing. The night vision mechanic with the video camera draws you into the game. Though story was nothing to talk about, it still remains a good horror game. 8/10.
  9. doberman2yk
    Mar 21, 2014
    8
    Best game out there on the PS4 in my opinion, at least while we all wait for "that game that's going to blow our minds"!

    Based on the fact the game is free, it should get a 10 by default but in the intrest of fair play, and the fact that i wanted to review the game in its own right and not just the fact that its free I have given it an 8. Graphics: 8 genuinely realistic, especially    Best game out there on the PS4 in my opinion, at least while we all wait for "that game that's going to blow our minds"!

    Based on the fact the game is free, it should get a 10 by default but in the intrest of fair play, and the fact that i wanted to review the game in its own right and not just the fact that its free I have given it an 8.

    Graphics: 8 genuinely realistic, especially in night vision mode.

    Sound/ atmosphere: 9 doesn't matter how big and brave you are, this game WILL give you the fright in many places.

    Story: 7 The characters are interesting but it does not really go into any detail with any of them. The story isn't incredible but there is enough about it that will make you want to play until the end to see what happens.

    Replay Value: 6.5 You cant really do anything differently enough to make a big impact 2nd or 3rd time round.

    Over all: Solid 8. The game is out to scare you, and it will. Graphics, sound, location, all of these things are well thought of and well delivered. Just a shame the characters who all seem very interesting do not play a bigger role than being obstacles to overcome.    … Expand
  10. thenthomwaslike
    Mar 18, 2014
    6
    While it hits the right notes on the "disturbing" scale sometimes, it devolves into trial and error more often than I'm comfortable with. Some enemies kill you in one hit, and with no Dodge mechanic that means when you get stuck on a wall (which happens all the time due to your field of view being so tiny) you are grabbed and have to watch the same death cutscene over and over again. It'sWhile it hits the right notes on the "disturbing" scale sometimes, it devolves into trial and error more often than I'm comfortable with. Some enemies kill you in one hit, and with no Dodge mechanic that means when you get stuck on a wall (which happens all the time due to your field of view being so tiny) you are grabbed and have to watch the same death cutscene over and over again. It's not that the game is hard, it's an artificial difficulty to extend the playtime. After seeing the same animations 5 times it is no longer shocking or scary. This game is at its best in noncombat scenarios when you are moving the plot forward, and at its worst when you are participating in the "exciting" game play parts. Simply stated: you will have much better scares and gameplay mechanics in amnesia the dark descent, a much better story in amnesia a machine for pigs, and much better gore in dead space 2. If you can get it for 5 dollars you can say it was money well spent but otherwise there's not much to praise here.… Expand
  11. TimeforKFC
    Mar 16, 2014
    8
    Reasons to buy
    This is the scariest game I have ever played because the developers got the atmosphere spot on, and no weapons and only having a camera is what make you jump out of your seat and makes every corner and corridors as scary and suspense as the next one.
    Also it's free on PS+ Reasons not to buy The story isn't that strong, and it creates basic missions which feels it's    Reasons to buy
    This is the scariest game I have ever played because the developers got the atmosphere spot on, and no weapons and only having a camera is what make you jump out of your seat and makes every corner and corridors as scary and suspense as the next one.
    Also it's free on PS+

    Reasons not to buy
    The story isn't that strong, and it creates basic missions which feels it's there to extend the story longer than it should be.

    Final verdict - you should get this just to experience just why this is the scariest game out there
    Graphics 7
    Sound 10
    Playability 6
    Gameplay 8

    Overall 8    … Expand
  12. Yagrold
    Mar 14, 2014
    10
    This game on PS4 is more beautiful than ultra in PC, and play with a joystick leave the gameplay much better. and the game really is scary, i recommend for everyone.
  13. Makaveli
    Mar 12, 2014
    6
    I didn't find this one scary, putting the music louder isn't scary for me... Silent Hill 1-3 is much scarier than this... I can't really see the appeal on this game.
  14. A138248
    Mar 10, 2014
    8
    I did jump a few times while playing outlast, the sound is good, and the graphics are better, and the story is solid. The ending leaves you ready to play the dlc. Worth your time!
  15. 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. 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    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. 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.    … Expand
  16. EDJET787
    Mar 7, 2014
    8
    Outlast is an eerie and terrifying adventure. The gameplay really immerses you into this Asylum and makes you strive to get out as soon as possible. The only complaints I have is that the AI doesn't feel that finished at some points, the movements feel a little stiff and uneven at times, but that doesn't detract the terror this game provides. The game also really drags out in the final actOutlast is an eerie and terrifying adventure. The gameplay really immerses you into this Asylum and makes you strive to get out as soon as possible. The only complaints I have is that the AI doesn't feel that finished at some points, the movements feel a little stiff and uneven at times, but that doesn't detract the terror this game provides. The game also really drags out in the final act and just doesn't seem to end, and your reward is a really crappy ending. Still, Outlast is one of the best horror games in recent memory, and if your a horror fan, your really missing out.… Expand
  17. Razv
    Mar 4, 2014
    6
    Didn't like the game. It is pretty scary here and there I have to admit, but that's not enough. I expected much more from it both gameplay-wise and story-wise.
  18. aGUYtoREMEMBER
    Mar 3, 2014
    8
    I love this game. The PS4 does not have many games out, but they are starting to pick up, and this game is a must play. Creepy, weird, awesome, unique, etc all describe it.

    Pros:
    Graphics
    scary
    visual
    development
    Well developed
    free

    PS plus owners must play this

    One of the first scary games I have played in a long time.
  19. Jacer200
    Mar 2, 2014
    9
    This game is awesome. This is one of the best run and hide, survival horror games I have every played. The game actually jump scared me a couple of times. The visuals are outstanding and mixed with great sound. Now the story could have been told a little better but that would be nit picking.
  20. Dukay66
    Feb 26, 2014
    8
    Outlast is a huge steal on PS+ that shouldn't be passed up. Outlast isn't ground breaking in graphics or game-play, but it does bring back horror and atmosphere. That's why Outlast is such a thrilling experience. The mood is so set, that you can't help but get sucked in from the very first chapter. Graphics are good and everything runs at an impressive rate. The best thing though is theOutlast is a huge steal on PS+ that shouldn't be passed up. Outlast isn't ground breaking in graphics or game-play, but it does bring back horror and atmosphere. That's why Outlast is such a thrilling experience. The mood is so set, that you can't help but get sucked in from the very first chapter. Graphics are good and everything runs at an impressive rate. The best thing though is the controls, they are very simple and once you get everything down right, it's like your there. I fully applaud Outlast for creating a fully immerse world filled with atmosphere and scares.… Expand
  21. PS4ONE
    Feb 26, 2014
    10
    I have been waiting for a console game of this quality for the horror genre! This game gets a 10 out of 10 for me. It is a stealth game that had me wanting to find, read, and understand everything. It keeps me going back. It will scare the heck out of the hardened horror movie enthusiast (jump scares). Great game and I will be looking for more from Red Barrels in the future. Great game, very fun.
  22. Alaisdair
    Feb 26, 2014
    10
    It takes a lot to scare me, especially if you are a video game! This is a trait that I have proudly stood by for many years now, most people get freaked out by Resident Evil, Bioshock, Dead Space 2 etc but not me. I kind go oh that’s kind of weird or gross but never actually fear. Well that is all now moot thanks to Red Barrel’s new game Outlast. I strapped on my newly compatible pulseIt takes a lot to scare me, especially if you are a video game! This is a trait that I have proudly stood by for many years now, most people get freaked out by Resident Evil, Bioshock, Dead Space 2 etc but not me. I kind go oh that’s kind of weird or gross but never actually fear. Well that is all now moot thanks to Red Barrel’s new game Outlast. I strapped on my newly compatible pulse wireless headphones and prepared myself for what I can only describe as the scariest and most frightening experience I have ever had on a console.

    Set in an abandoned asylum, players assume the character of Miles Upshur, a reported set on investigating some strange reports sent to him about some strange experiments happening there. The game is first person survival horror and is the first game I have played in a while where the character is completely defenceless. That’s right no guns, no shovels, no knife, no nothing. Instead you hide in lockers that seem to make you invisible, under beds and behind locked doors. It sounds ridiculous but when you are actually playing and you can feel the intensity and anticipation of being found it actually is one of the games biggest strengths.

    Miles has a video camera with night vision that he uses to record the evidence and the night vision feature is used to navigate through pitch black rooms and to reveal supernatural creatures that cannot be seen with the naked eye. This only adds to the stress of it all and was one of the best features having unknown creatures jump out at the camera screen while navigating a pitch black room. The battery life of the camera also comes into play and you have to find more batteries otherwise you are left to walk around in the dark with no light. Not really something you want to do with clean underwear and a full bladder!

    During your journey through Mount Massive Asylum players collect documents that reveal the past of patients that were there and provide some clues as to what has happened there. Also if you record the camera in the right areas you learn about Miles and this in turn earns the all important trophies.

    Playing the game as a survival first person you can pretty much only see what is in front of you. You can occasionally peek around the corner, but the movement is pretty stock standard and this adds to that trapped feeling. There were a couple of times when I tried to vault over a desk and epically failed, kind of fumbling over a dead body and it looked like a massive glitch.

    Graphically this game is hauntingly beautiful, it really harnesses the power of the PS4 (I know we have been saying this a lot lately it will wear off soon!) the dark and terrifying atmosphere is accentuated by the night vision and the hanging dead, blood drenches bodies look spectacular. Using the Pulse wireless headset shows just how much background creaks and noises are in this game adding to the atmosphere.

    There is a lot of blood and gore in this game and it does have an R 18 rating for a reason. Those with weak stomach’s should steer clear, but those who are missing those scary horror survival games will relish in this game, and while the main campaign is a short 6 hours, it is 6 hours well spent. Outlast is horrifically intense and brings the scare factor, play it with headphones if you can for that added scare experience!

    Outlast is available from Steam on PC and is available now on PS4 (as a free download for February on PS Plus)

    Review by Alaisdair “Arrow” Dewar    … Expand
  23. insloanwetrust
    Feb 25, 2014
    8
    The game is frustrating, haunting and good in equal measure. It also does a good job of scaring you with people jumping out at you, running across you and grabbing you. It also does feel like you're trapped and 2/3 in you really do want to get out. You really do want the game to end because you just can't take anymore. That's not because it's a bad game it's because it's a frustrating andThe game is frustrating, haunting and good in equal measure. It also does a good job of scaring you with people jumping out at you, running across you and grabbing you. It also does feel like you're trapped and 2/3 in you really do want to get out. You really do want the game to end because you just can't take anymore. That's not because it's a bad game it's because it's a frustrating and haunting game. The games immersion is amplified when played in the dark with headphones on. It's genuinely a scary game and it's genuinely a game you won't forget soon after you've played it and also the ending is good as well.

    8/10.    … Expand
  24. TheBlackGreg
    Feb 25, 2014
    8
    One of the scariest games I've played since Silent Hill. although it only took me 4 hours it was still a great hold on the edge of your seat 4 hours it was a very scary and fun experience.
  25. EzzOmen
    Feb 21, 2014
    9
    A Genuinely terrifying experience, the Jump scares will remind you who's in control, and the dark corridors and courtyards will have you sleeping with a light on, but its chases that will scare you to your core, OUTLAST makes great use of atmosphere, mechanics and emotion and creates moments where you'll be running on the spot to help your character escape.

    my only negative (if it can    A Genuinely terrifying experience, the Jump scares will remind you who's in control, and the dark corridors and courtyards will have you sleeping with a light on, but its chases that will scare you to your core, OUTLAST makes great use of atmosphere, mechanics and emotion and creates moments where you'll be running on the spot to help your character escape.

    my only negative (if it can be called one) is the Finale, instead of continuing with the terror the game works so hard to create, it is traded in for a more action focused ending, the ending is still above boiler plate, but a darker ending would have been more enjoyable.

    my rule for OUTLAST is, play with the lights on...    … Expand
  26. jmcc87
    Feb 18, 2014
    8
    I was terrified from the first moments of driving up to the creepy asylum. Brilliantly scary! The first two nights I played it I had to turn it off after about ten minutes, only on the third night I played it for two hours and it got better as it went on. The game is really effective at giving you a feeling of being alone and helpless. Its also addictive as you want to keep playing toI was terrified from the first moments of driving up to the creepy asylum. Brilliantly scary! The first two nights I played it I had to turn it off after about ten minutes, only on the third night I played it for two hours and it got better as it went on. The game is really effective at giving you a feeling of being alone and helpless. Its also addictive as you want to keep playing to find out what's going on in the story. I haven't played many horror games but really liking this one!… Expand
  27. The_Trooper
    Feb 18, 2014
    10
    Must have for all horror survival fans! And yes, you are going to die SEVERAL times! Get over it and enjoy this game for what it is. It accomplishes it's goal of being a dark, tense, yet thrilling experience. The story is just as good as any horror movie story... if you're expecting a great story, go watch Raiders of the Lost Ark! Those turned off by looking for keys and such... whatMust have for all horror survival fans! And yes, you are going to die SEVERAL times! Get over it and enjoy this game for what it is. It accomplishes it's goal of being a dark, tense, yet thrilling experience. The story is just as good as any horror movie story... if you're expecting a great story, go watch Raiders of the Lost Ark! Those turned off by looking for keys and such... what do you expect, instant gratification??? And no, there's no save as you step which is a bogus way to get through these games anyway. When you get through a part, it doesn't take you all the way back... just to the sequence just accomplished (not the entire level). You have to think and think fast (while at times running and hiding fast). The game immerses you in the moment and takes you on a horrifying & disturbing journey. Well done and recommended.… Expand
  28. NoiSy_MaN
    Feb 17, 2014
    8
    It has its drawbacks but it's a great game nonetheless, especially considering it's an indie title. If you like survival horror, its a no-brainer. It's also free on ps. plus.
  29. sityoazzdown
    Feb 16, 2014
    4
    Where do I begin on this game? I'll begin by saying I'm not one to scare easily so maybe that's why I didn't enjoy this game like others would. Nonetheless, Outlast does have it moments but the repititive gameplay makes your realize it's not neccesarily that this game is scary, it's just you can't do **** and spend 80% of the game playing tag and hide and seek, other 20% of the game isWhere do I begin on this game? I'll begin by saying I'm not one to scare easily so maybe that's why I didn't enjoy this game like others would. Nonetheless, Outlast does have it moments but the repititive gameplay makes your realize it's not neccesarily that this game is scary, it's just you can't do **** and spend 80% of the game playing tag and hide and seek, other 20% of the game is looking for keys or ways to advance the game or whatnot. Speaking of gameplay..what gameplay? In this age of gaming with cinematic gameplay, and games like heavy rain, beyond two souls, and even telltale's walking dead, outlast has no character development and a confusing mess of a story for an lack of gameplay to keep me interested. Scavenging for documents are unrewarding, I barely understood one document I was reading. I could see how others enjoyed this game, especially if you grasped the concept of the gameplay and story; but for me its a BOOOOO!!!...hehe see what i did there?… Expand
  30. Turbodowg
    Feb 14, 2014
    8
    Outlast is terrifying!!! No it really is. I've played a fair few horror games since I started gaming in the 80's (the first been Nightbreed on Amiga) and only a few compare to the scares in Outlast. The reason I find it so scary is because you have no weapons at all. Usually a beast jumps out in a game; you get a little scare, aim up and blow its head off with a shotgun. In Outlast yourOutlast is terrifying!!! No it really is. I've played a fair few horror games since I started gaming in the 80's (the first been Nightbreed on Amiga) and only a few compare to the scares in Outlast. The reason I find it so scary is because you have no weapons at all. Usually a beast jumps out in a game; you get a little scare, aim up and blow its head off with a shotgun. In Outlast your heart rate is constantly up as you creep through the dark corridors in Mount Massive Asylum using your video camera to record and document events or using the night vision when there is no other light source. When you do stumble across one of the many deformed and horrific inmates the only options are to run or hide. This creates such tension that often your frantic actions will lead to death.

    I often found myself doing stupid things or just hiding in a corner awaiting death as terror took over, I almost wanted death so the game would end and I could return to my peaceful life and relaxing front room. This is a rarity in most horror games today.

    You really feel like you are in the game. The graphics are good and the lighting effects work well. The setting is eerie and at times disturbing. The plot is strong and the controls work well. This is survival horror in its rawest form. Run, hide, explore, find batteries, escape!

    The game kind of reminds me of the indie hit SCP-Contamination breach. This is due to the emphasis been on survival and wits rather than run and gun. Outlast is a game best enjoyed on your own with the lights out (although I was too scared to play on my own and needed my brother to come round and play it with me). But try it on your own and believe me you will be scared!

    The game is currently free on PSN (another great reason to invest in a PS4 who clearly love supporting indie games and alternative titles rather than your average AAA rubbish). For free, this is a good bit of disturbing fun. The 4-5 hour play time is just perfect for this type of game; any longer I would have likely had a heart attack. So if you love horror games, give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.    … Expand
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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

Critic Reviews

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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. Playstation Official Magazine Australia
    Mar 19, 2014
    80
    It’s not perfect, but Outlast still succeeds at scaring the pants off you. [April 2014, p80]
  2. 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]
  3. Game Informer
    Feb 25, 2014
    75
    Outlast is a virtual tour through a hall of terrors. Even playing the game in full daylight makes me uneasy. However, the game's overall level design and gameplay were sacrificed at the altar of fear. If you're looking for an experience that will get your adrenaline pumping, Outlast is hard to beat, but if you’re looking for a meatier horror experience then you might want to run past this one.
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