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MONSTER

The Outlast Trials

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Outlast Trials
Item: The Outlast Trials
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Horror, Mystery, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableMar 5, 2024

PlatformPC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperRed Barrels

Overview

The Outlast Trials is a survival horror game you can play by yourself or with other players online. You'll have to survive the twisted, sadistic and bizarre experiments of the Murkoff Corporation, alone or in a group up to 4 players.

Elsewhere

8.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Outlast Trials impresses with its Cold War setting and cooperative multiplayer gameplay, earning praise for its eerie atmosphere and strategic character development. However, critics largely agree that the narrative is shallow and serves merely as a backdrop for gameplay, lacking depth, originality, and character development. While the game may satisfy survival horror and multiplayer enthusiasts, those seeking a rich story will likely be disappointed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of critics regarding the story of The Outlast Trials reveal some positive aspects worth noting. Many reviewers appreciate the game’s setting during the Cold War, with several, such as TheXboxHub and KeenGamer, highlighting the eerie atmosphere and the concept of players as test subjects in a sinister experiment by the Murkoff Corporation. The cooperative multiplayer element introduced in this prequel has been well-received, with GamersRD mentioning the addition of up to four players, which adds a unique twist to the gameplay experience. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and IGN Italia also recognize the potential for deeper narrative engagement through the game's mechanics, suggesting that the multiplayer focus allows for strategic character development and teamwork, which can enhance the overall experience. However, the majority of critics express significant concerns regarding the narrative depth and overall storytelling quality in The Outlast Trials. Many, including COGconnected and Pure Xbox, argue that the story is weak and serves primarily as a vehicle for gameplay rather than a compelling narrative. IGN points out the minimal lore and context provided, indicating that the game relies heavily on gameplay mechanics at the expense of a meaningful plot. Critics like SomosXbox and DarkZero further emphasize the lack of character development and depth in the narrative, suggesting that the characters feel more like imitations than original creations. This sentiment is echoed by Eurogamer Germany, which notes that the limited storytelling may not appeal to players who prefer a richer narrative experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Outlast Trials presents an intriguing premise with its Cold War setting and cooperative gameplay, it ultimately falls short in delivering a robust and engaging story. Many reviewers agree that the narrative lacks depth and originality, with several suggesting that it serves primarily to guide players through the gameplay loop rather than to provide a meaningful context or emotional engagement. The mixed opinions indicate that while the game may appeal to fans of survival horror and multiplayer experiences, those seeking a strong narrative may find it lacking, as highlighted by critics like New Game Network and GameSkinny, who note the repetitive gameplay mechanics and insufficient horror elements.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Outlast Trials shines in cooperative gameplay and survival mechanics, creating a tense atmosphere filled with teamwork and strategy. Critics praise its horror elements but note significant flaws, including repetitiveness, a lack of depth, and limited enemy variety, which can lead to a dull experience, especially in single-player mode. While it offers fun multiplayer moments, it risks losing appeal over time, falling short of the franchise's original excitement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of The Outlast Trials has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting its strong emphasis on cooperative mechanics and survival elements. Reviewers from COGconnected and MondoXbox appreciate the integration of teamwork in navigating traps and completing objectives, which enhances the overall experience. The game retains the hallmark features of the Outlast series, such as the first-person perspective and the inability to fight back, as noted by GamersRD. Critics like XboxEra and Checkpoint Gaming emphasize the engaging nature of cooperative play, with players needing to strategize and coordinate to survive the trials. The randomized environments and smart enemy AI mentioned by COGconnected contribute to a tense atmosphere, keeping players on edge and enhancing the horror experience. However, several critics voiced concerns about the gameplay's repetitiveness and lack of depth. IGN pointed out that the limited number of levels and the repetitive nature of the trials could lead to diminishing excitement over time. Pure Xbox echoed this sentiment, describing the core gameplay loop as dull and unsatisfying, particularly in single-player mode. Critics like Multiplayer.it and MeuPlayStation highlighted the lack of variety in enemy types and the simplicity of objectives, which can detract from the overall tension and engagement. The reliance on basic tasks and predictable AI behavior, as noted by BaziCenter and The Jimquisition, further contributes to a sense of monotony that some players may find frustrating. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Outlast Trials offers a solid foundation for cooperative gameplay and maintains the franchise's core mechanics, it struggles with repetitiveness and a lack of depth in its objectives. Critics like Hobby Consolas and KeenGamer recognize the potential for fun, especially in multiplayer settings, but many also caution that the gameplay may become tedious over time due to its reliance on familiar mechanics and limited content. As a result, while the game succeeds in delivering a cooperative horror experience, it may not fully capture the unique essence that fans of the original Outlast series have come to expect.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Outlast Trials has received widespread acclaim for its stunning graphics and immersive visual design, with critics praising the detailed environments and effective use of lighting to enhance horror. However, some critiques highlight issues with repetitive asset usage and a lack of memorable enemies, which could diminish the overall experience. Despite these shortcomings, the game stands out as a visually striking addition to the horror genre, successfully creating a chilling atmosphere that fans will appreciate.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of The Outlast Trials have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the game's beautifully designed environments and unsettling imagery. COGconnected highlights the "beautifully designed and executed environments" that effectively utilize lighting to enhance the horror experience. Similarly, GamersRD notes a significant step up in visuals compared to previous titles, emphasizing the detailed character models and disturbing environments filled with visceral traces. Critics like Pure Xbox and TheXboxHub also commend the game's impressive visual polish, with detailed atmospheric environments that include eerie locations such as police stations and fairgrounds. Overall, the consensus among reviewers is that the graphics contribute significantly to the game's immersive and terrifying atmosphere, making it a standout feature of the experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out a few shortcomings in the visual design. For instance, SomosXbox mentions that while the visual design is impressive, it falls short in creating memorable enemies, which could detract from the overall horror experience. Additionally, Push Square notes some repetitiveness in asset usage, such as mannequins and cardboard cutouts, which could lead to a feeling of familiarity that undermines the horror atmosphere. IGN Italia also points out issues with input cleanliness affecting gameplay precision, which could detract from the overall immersion that the graphics aim to provide. These critiques suggest that while the visuals are strong, there are areas where the game could improve to enhance the overall experience. In conclusion, the overall sentiment among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of The Outlast Trials is overwhelmingly positive. The majority of reviewers agree that the game excels in creating a chilling and immersive horror environment, with high-quality graphics that effectively utilize lighting and detail to evoke fear. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and BaziCenter emphasize the stunning visuals and unique enemy designs that enhance the gaming experience. While there are some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and the need for more memorable enemy designs, these do not significantly detract from the overall appreciation of the game's visual achievements. As a result, The Outlast Trials is positioned as a visually striking entry in the horror genre, successfully leveraging its graphics to heighten the tension and atmosphere that fans have come to expect from the series.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise the sound design and music of The Outlast Trials, highlighting Tom Salta's score and immersive audio cues that amplify horror. While many appreciate its chilling atmosphere, some point out flaws like repetitive voice acting and technical issues that can disrupt immersion. Overall, the audio elements are deemed crucial for creating a terrifying gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of The Outlast Trials is largely positive, with many critics praising the game's ability to enhance the horror experience through its audio elements. COGconnected highlights the effective musical score by Tom Salta, which amplifies the terror, while GamersRD emphasizes the importance of sound design, noting the terrifying enemy grunts and well-executed English voice acting. Critics like MondoXbox and Player 2 also commend the directional audio and immersive audio cues that contribute significantly to the tension and fear during gameplay. The XboxHub mentions the menacing soundtrack and well-performed voice acting that complements the visuals, further enhancing the horror atmosphere. Overall, the sound design is seen as a crucial component in creating an immersive and terrifying experience for players. Despite the generally positive reception, some critics have pointed out notable drawbacks in the sound design. IGN mentions that while the sound design complements gameplay, the voice acting of certain antagonists, particularly Mother Gooseberry, can become annoying and repetitive. SomosXbox expresses that the sound design is not as impactful, despite the well-executed gore and atmosphere. Additionally, New Game Network raises concerns about sound cutting off abruptly and difficulties in pinpointing enemy locations, which can detract from the overall experience. These critiques suggest that while the sound design is effective in many areas, there are inconsistencies that could hinder immersion for some players. The overall consensus among critics is that The Outlast Trials successfully utilizes sound design and music to create a chilling and immersive horror atmosphere. Many reviewers, such as Movies Games and Tech and GAMINGbible, agree that the audio elements significantly enhance the gameplay experience, with moments designed to induce fear and tension. While there are some criticisms regarding specific aspects of the sound design, such as repetitive voice acting and occasional technical issues, the majority of critics appreciate how the audio contributes to the game's overall horror experience. Ultimately, the sound design is recognized as a key feature that elevates the game's immersive qualities, making it a noteworthy aspect of The Outlast Trials.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Outlast Trials shines with smooth performance and stability on Xbox Series X and PS5, running at 60 FPS with minimal bugs. However, Xbox struggles with AI issues, PS5 faces input bugs and long loading times, and PC users report communication and audio problems. While the game impresses technically, it still has notable flaws needing attention.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of The Outlast Trials has garnered generally positive feedback across different gaming platforms. On the Xbox Series X, critics like IGN and MondoXbox praised the game for its smooth performance, consistently running at 60 FPS with minimal bugs, showcasing impressive stability. Player 2 also echoed this sentiment, noting the absence of technical issues, which further reinforces the positive outlook on the Xbox Series X experience. For the PlayStation 5, Everyeye.it commended the game for its smooth performance on next-gen consoles, while GameOver.gr mentioned only minor bugs, suggesting a largely stable experience. Additionally, SpazioGames highlighted the game’s effective use of Unreal Engine 4, contributing to a solid technical foundation. On PC, while Hooked Gamers pointed out issues with communication tools, New Game Network acknowledged a good framerate during regular play, indicating that the game performs well under typical conditions. Despite the overall positive reception, there are notable concerns regarding technical performance on all platforms. On the Xbox Series X, XboxEra raised a potential issue with AI performance, suggesting that it may not always function optimally, which could detract from the gameplay experience. For the PlayStation 5, IGN Italia reported bugs and input problems that impact gameplay precision, particularly during high-stress moments, while MeuPlayStation pointed out long loading times attributed to network connectivity issues. On PC, both Hooked Gamers and New Game Network identified specific technical concerns, including communication tool issues and audio problems, which could hinder the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics indicates that The Outlast Trials delivers a commendable technical performance across platforms, particularly on Xbox Series X and PS5, where the gameplay experience is generally smooth and stable. However, there are caveats, such as AI performance issues on Xbox, bugs and input problems on PS5, and communication and audio concerns on PC. These mixed reviews suggest that while the game excels in many areas, there are still aspects that require attention to enhance the overall player experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Outlast Trials garners mixed but mostly positive reviews for its replay value. Critics praise character customization, randomized loot, and cooperative gameplay, which enhance engagement. However, concerns about repetitive missions and limited content threaten its long-term appeal. While it has the potential for replayability, many urge for more variety and updates to keep players invested.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of The Outlast Trials present a mixed but generally positive sentiment. Critics like COGconnected and Player 2 highlight the game's character customization, randomized loot, and weekly challenges as significant factors that enhance replayability. The cooperative gameplay aspect is also praised, with GamersRD and TheXboxHub noting that playing with friends can create a more engaging experience, adding depth through teamwork and shared objectives. Additionally, features like cross-play functionality and unlockable modes, as mentioned by Hobby Consolas and Checkpoint Gaming, further contribute to the game's appeal, encouraging players to return for new challenges and experiences. However, many reviewers express concerns about the game's repetitive nature, which can detract from its long-term replay value. IGN and MondoXbox point out that the limited variety in stages leads to a sense of staleness, especially for solo players. Critics like Multiplayer.it and MeuPlayStation emphasize that the lack of diverse missions and incentives for resource farming can make the gameplay feel monotonous. The Jimquisition and BaziCenter also mention that the linear progression and limited content could hinder the game's sustainability in the market, making it challenging for players to stay engaged over time. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Outlast Trials offers several engaging elements that can enhance replay value, such as customization and cooperative gameplay, the repetitive nature of its missions and environments poses a significant drawback. Many reviewers, including IGN and DarkZero, agree that the game could benefit from additional content and variety to maintain player interest in the long run. As it stands, the game shows promise, but its replayability may ultimately hinge on future updates and support to address current limitations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards The Outlast Trials showcases a generally positive reception, particularly highlighting its cooperative gameplay and horror elements. Critics such as COGconnected and GamersRD commend the game for its fun group mechanics and terrifying experiences, emphasizing the engaging multiplayer aspect that enhances the horror experience. Many reviewers, including TheXboxHub and Movies Games and Tech, praise the game's impressive visuals and atmospheric design, which contribute to a captivating horror experience. The cooperative gameplay is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, with critics like GameOver.gr and KeenGamer noting that it successfully shifts the focus from single-player to a more team-oriented approach, providing memorable moments and intense gameplay when played with friends. However, the game is not without its flaws, as several critics point out significant shortcomings. IGN and Multiplayer.it note the lack of a compelling story and originality, suggesting that the game may feel repetitive over time, particularly in solo play. Critics like Pure Xbox and New Game Network express concerns about the gameplay's repetitiveness and the absence of meaningful scares, indicating that the game may not hold long-term engagement. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from Hooked Gamers and Everyeye.it, mention technical issues and inconsistent thematic tones that detract from the overall experience, suggesting that while the game has high-quality graphics, it struggles to deliver a cohesive narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Outlast Trials is a solid entry in the horror genre, particularly for fans of cooperative gameplay. While it offers a thrilling experience with strong visuals and engaging mechanics, there are notable concerns about its longevity and depth, especially for solo players. Critics such as The Jimquisition and SpazioGames acknowledge the game's potential for improvement, particularly in mission diversity and content updates. Ultimately, the game is recommended primarily for those who enjoy multiplayer horror experiences, with the understanding that it may not fully satisfy those seeking a rich narrative or varied gameplay when played alone.

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials has garnered a generally positive reception, praised for its thrilling cooperative gameplay and impressive visuals that enhance the horror experience. Critics highlight its team-oriented mechanics, which create memorable moments when played with friends. However, the game faces criticism for its lack of a compelling story, repetitiveness in gameplay, and technical issues that may hinder long-term engagement, especially for solo players. While recommended for multiplayer horror fans, it falls short for those seeking deeper narratives or diverse gameplay in single-player mode.

MONSTER

Reviews

91 reviews found

Movies Games and Tech

PlayStation 5

Jun 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Outlast Trials is a masterpiece in blending cooperative gameplay with the iconic horror of the series. It offers exhilarating and terrifying gameplay moments, unforgettable characters and enemies, stunning visuals, and top-notch sound design. The game's balance between story and gameplay, along with its presentation and design, make it a must-play for horror fans.

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Checkpoint Gaming

PlayStation 5

Mar 8, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Outlast Trials provides a brutally fresh twist to the franchise, offering a seamless cooperative horror experience that is both horrifying and fun to survive together. Solo play may be more tedious, but the matchmaking system helps alleviate this issue, with more content on the way to keep players engaged.

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KeenGamer

PlayStation 5

Oct 8, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Outlast Trials delivers a unique co-op horror experience with a disturbing story, engaging gameplay, impressive visuals, and immersive sound design. It is recommended for players seeking a different multiplayer horror experience.

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Player 2

Xbox Series X

Apr 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Outlast Trials provides an intense and gory horror experience that is well-balanced, engaging, and offers a unique gameplay experience that horror fans should definitely consider trying, with potential for long-term enjoyment and replayability.

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SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Mar 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A solid cooperative horror game but lacks the essence that made Outlast stand out in the genre.

MeuPlayStation

PlayStation 5

Mar 17, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Recommended for horror fans looking for a thrilling cooperative gameplay experience with a fair in-game monetization system and regular content updates.

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GamersRD

Xbox Series X

Mar 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Outlast Trials delivers a surprising cooperative survival horror experience, maintaining series gameplay elements while elevating them. Visually disturbing and strategically challenging, especially in multiplayer.

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GameSkinny

Mar 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Outlast Trials is recommended as a solid experience for fans of Outlast and horror games, offering a terrifying gameplay that can be completed in about four hours with potential for growth.

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Eurogamer Germany

Mar 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Unique and intense stealth-action experience with a chilling horror environment. Cooperative gameplay provides memorable moments despite some repetitive elements in single-player mode.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Mar 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Outlast Trials delivers a visually and atmospherically captivating horror experience, with a unique multiplayer approach that may not be as satisfying story-wise as previous titles but excels in creating a terrifying cooperative gameplay experience.

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