Outbound

Outbound is a laid-back and inspiring cozy adventure that falls a bit short when it comes to crafting.

Outbound feels like a deliberate detox from the "doomscrolling" era. The gameplay loop is built entirely around relaxation and is beautifully uncomplicated. It nudges you onto the open road with zero pressure and zero velocity, offering a steady, comforting rhythm that accompanies you rather than demanding anything from you. It’s simple, soulful, and exactly the kind of slow burn the modern world makes us crave.

Outbound is a video game that managed to surprise us in its own way, incorporating van life into a hybrid formula capable of entertaining even those who don't particularly enjoy the genre. Crafting, resource gathering, and progression never feel overly frustrating, effectively balancing every single component and keeping it within the player's reach. The charm of this production is undeniable, but it's worth pointing out that around the midpoint of the experience (which will nonetheless last over 30 hours) and as the in-game days go by, a certain sense of repetitiveness sets in. Every single area has been designed to offer a sense of calm, with the sounds of ocean waves and rustling trees, in a dystopian future where only renewable energy is used without leaving the slightest mark on nature. However, this world feels too empty — no human presence, just us and a vast array of crafting possibilities. Fortunately, we have a wonderful little dog to keep us company, who represents the most "heartwarming" element of the entire game. Outbound is a relaxing game, an interactive holiday and a road trip that serves as an escape from the increasingly pulse-pounding frenzy of modern video games. Respect for the environment, a sense of community, and anti-consumerism — perhaps this title could even inspire us to reflect on an ever more sustainable future.

Outbound is a game that, if given enough time, could be good in the future. It has a wonderful world that can be filled with things and people to interact with. A wonderful building system that can be improved with better delivery of blueprints. And a road-trip experience that can be improved with sound. Unfortunately, much like its world, right now it’s a game with a shallow gameplay loop that is difficult to stay interested in. Maybe it’s more fun with friends?