TheOutlastfranchise is not only one of the most memorable series of horror games in recent years, but it also has contributed to the reemergence of non-combat survival horror games. While iconic horror games likeAmnesia: The Dark Descentwere among the first to build a game without combat, the firstOutlastgame arguably exemplified the potential of the trope. Not only has the original game sold over 4 million copies as of October 2016, but its success has contributed to the development ofOutlast 2and the upcoming titleThe Outlast Trials.It appears as thoughThe Outlast Trialswill be taking a departure from franchise traditions.
Throughout the almost decade-long history of theOutlastfranchise, the gameplay has been focused on attempting to survive a terrifying environment long enough to escape. The franchise is unique because the player protagonist tends to be a journalist who uses a camera to navigate in the dark and record evidence. As dozens of horror games take influence from thesuccess ofOutlastandOutlast 2,it’s surprising to seeThe Outlast Trialstake a dramatic departure from established game mechanics and themes.
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The Outlast Trials Is A Cooperative Experience That Might Undercut Franchise History
Unlike its predecessors,The Outlast Trialssupports four-player cooperative gameplay. While the game could be attempting to capitalize on the popularity ofmultiplayer horror gameslikeLeft 4 DeadandDying Light,it’s indeed a significant change. The upcoming game is a prequel toOutlastandOutlast 2,putting players in the shoes of a test subject participating in a dangerous Cold War-era experiment. Although much remains to be seen about how the storyline will factor into gameplay, it’s been confirmed that players can fight enemies using a series of special skills. This gameplay development is an unexpected departure from the non-combat game mechanics that first distinguished theOutlastfranchise.
It appears thattest subjects inThe Outlast Trialswill not freely explore but instead participate in a series of experiments that involve completing tasks while evading monsters. Part of the effectiveness ofOutlast’s horror elements was that players are forced to keep moving. It will be interesting to see how an episodic format maintains that sense of constant danger and desperation. The game has also switched out the iconic camera for night-vision goggles and appears to offer a variety of collectible items to aid in the experiment. Playing with others - and upgradable skills - might remove that feeling of isolation and dread theOutlastfranchise is known for.
How The Outlast Trials Can Avoid The Pitfalls of Previous Co-Op Horror Games
SomeOutlastfans might have trepidation about how the new multiplayer cooperative mode and the advent of special skills will affect gameplay. It’s difficult not to draw comparisons to the long-forgotten2015 gameAlone In The Dark: Illumination.LikeThe Outlast Trials,Illuminationis a four-player cooperative horror game where players work together to survive and solve a mystery. Players have unique skills and use collectible items to traverse the various levels. While the originalAlone In The Darkwas a resounding success,Alone In The Dark: Illuminationreceived negative reviews.
Manycritics pannedAlone In The Dark: Illumination’s co-op modeand the gameplay. Some players found the gameplay overly tedious and repetitive, and the lack of compelling narrative elements irredeemable.The Outlast Trialswill need to avoid the pitfalls seen with the release ofAlone In The Dark: Illumination.One way the game can do this is by creating a genuinely compelling narrative that can be enjoyed while playing with multiple people. The character customization system could also be another way for players to personalize their experience. Ultimately,The Outlast Trialsshould also provide a dynamic and balanced loop that caters to longtime fans.
The Outlast Trialsis in development.
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