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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

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

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 delivers intense gameplay and atmospheric horror but sacrifices narrative depth for survival mechanics. While its Cold War setting, cooperative puzzles, and tense multiplayer shine, critics panned its shallow story, weak characters, and repetitive design. A polarizing entry: action-focused fans will love it, but lore lovers will find it hollow.

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 Outlast Trials has received a range of opinions from critics, with several highlighting its engaging gameplay and unique setting. Many reviewers, such as Checkpoint Gaming and KeenGamer, praised the game’s intriguing and disturbing story set during the Cold War, noting its focus on escaping the trials orchestrated by the Murkoff Corporation. GAMINGbible and SpazioGames emphasized the fresh direction the game takes for the series, offering a multiplayer experience centered around cooperative puzzle-solving and strategic thinking. Additionally, Multiplayer.it and TheXboxHub appreciated the game’s atmospheric setting, which immerses players in a dark, twisted narrative involving experiments and a sense of urgency. The game’s emphasis on survival and intense challenges, as noted by Hobby Consolas and XboxEra, also contributed to its appeal for fans of the horror genre. However, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the game’s storytelling. COGconnected and IGN both noted that the narrative lacks depth, serving more as a backdrop for the survival mechanics rather than a compelling or immersive plot. Pure Xbox and SomosXbox criticized the weak characters and narrative, suggesting that they felt like imitations rather than original creations. Movies Games and Tech mentioned that the story is deliberately vague, which could be seen as a positive by some but a negative by others who expect more clarity. New Game Network also pointed out that the game leans heavily on repetitive gameplay mechanics, with limited horror and story depth, which may not satisfy all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Outlast Trials is a game that prioritizes gameplay over storytelling, with a narrative that is more functional than profound. While it offers an engaging and challenging experience, especially in its multiplayer mode, the story is often seen as a secondary element. However, the game’s unique setting, atmospheric horror, and cooperative focus have earned it praise from some reviewers, even if the narrative itself is not as strong as in previous entries of the series. The mixed reception reflects a divide between players who value intense gameplay and those who seek a more developed story, with IGN Italia and BaziCenter noting that the game’s focus on multiplayer and survival mechanics makes it a distinct entry in the Outlast franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Outlast Trials thrives in co-op with tight stealth, puzzle-solving, and tense teamwork, but repetitive mechanics, predictable AI, and underwhelming solo play tarnish its horror edge. While it honors the franchise’s ethos, its formulaic design and lack of innovation leave it polarizing—exciting for cooperative fans, but shallow for those craving depth or immersion.

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 Outlast Trials receives praise for its core gameplay elements that emphasize survival, stealth, and cooperation. Critics like COGconnected and Hobby Consolas highlight the strong survival puzzle mechanics, teamwork requirements, and the tension created by smart, relentless enemies. IGN and MondoXbox commend the game’s unique blend of horror, puzzles, and co-op play, noting the psychological pressure of navigating dark environments and the variety of challenges, such as pushing carts or avoiding traps. XboxEra and Movies Games and Tech appreciate the smooth movement, environmental interaction, and the inclusion of customizable trials, which add depth and adaptability. The multiplayer focus, as pointed out by KeenGamer and GameOver.gr, is seen as a key strength, with cooperative strategies and shared objectives enhancing the experience. These reviews collectively suggest that the game’s design successfully channels the series’ signature survival-horror ethos while introducing fresh mechanics that reward teamwork and strategic thinking. However, several critics voice concerns about repetition and lack of innovation. Pure Xbox and New Game Network describe the core gameplay loop as dull and unsatisfying, particularly in solo mode, where the reliance on hiding and mundane tasks feels unengaging. Multiplayer.it and BaziCenter criticize the limited enemy variety and predictable AI, which can make the experience feel stale over time. Everyeye.it and TheXboxHub note the slow progression and repetitive trial structures, while MeuPlayStation and Push Square point to a lack of deep horror elements in single-player, with the atmosphere often overshadowed by the need to complete rote objectives. The Jimquisition even compares the co-op experience to a "jaunty theme park feel," suggesting that the game’s focus on mechanics over atmosphere dilutes its horror impact. These critiques indicate that while the game’s systems are functional, they risk feeling formulaic and underdeveloped, especially for players seeking a more immersive or varied experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with the game’s cooperative gameplay and puzzle-driven mechanics serving as its primary selling points, but its repetitive structure and lack of innovation in solo play acting as significant drawbacks. IGN and KeenGamer acknowledge the game’s potential as a co-op experience, where teamwork and strategy shine, but many, like Pure Xbox and Multiplayer.it, feel it fails to match the original Outlast’s intensity or originality. While Eurogamer Germany and GameSkinny appreciate the engaging stealth-action elements and smooth controls, others, such as Movies Games and Tech and SpazioGames, argue that the limited scope of content and inconsistent pacing hinder its longevity. Despite these criticisms, the game’s emphasis on cooperative survival and its faithful adherence to the series’ core principles create a polarizing but recognizable entry in the Outlast franchise, appealing to fans of team-based horror but falling short for those craving deeper narrative or varied challenges.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Rave reviews hail The Outlast Trials for its stunning graphics, immersive horror atmosphere, and technical polish, with critics praising its grotesque environments, realistic details, and next-gen performance. While some note minor flaws—repetitive assets, loading hiccups, and polarizing violence—these are overshadowed by its effective world-building and terrifying visuals, solidifying it as a standout survival horror title.

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 majority of critics praised The Outlast Trials for its exceptional graphics and visual design, highlighting its ability to immerse players in a terrifying atmosphere. COGconnected and GamersRD both commended the game’s "beautifully designed and executed environments" and "disturbing environments featuring mutilated bodies," emphasizing the attention to detail and unsettling imagery that amplifies the horror. Pure Xbox and TheXboxHub noted the "wonderfully detailed and atmospheric environments" and "brilliant lighting effects," which effectively create a sense of unease. IGN and MondoXbox lauded the polished visuals and technical performance, with the latter pointing out smooth 60 FPS gameplay on next-gen consoles. Movies Games and Tech described the "stunning visuals" and "grotesque enemy designs," while Checkpoint Gaming and GAMINGbible praised the "realistic and immersive environments" and the way the visuals showcase new-gen hardware capabilities. These reviews collectively underscore the game’s strong visual execution, with its environments—ranging from police stations to fairgrounds—featuring a level of detail that enhances the horror experience and aligns with the series’ signature style. While the positives dominate, some critics pointed to minor flaws in the visual design. Push Square and SpazioGames noted a lack of originality, with repetitive assets like mannequins and cardboard cutouts detracting from the immersion. IGN Italia mentioned "issues with input cleanliness" that impacted gameplay precision, though this was more about mechanics than visuals. New Game Network highlighted "occasional long loading times" and "issues with audio propagation through a portal system," which could disrupt the atmosphere. Eurogamer Germany also cautioned that the "graphic violence may not appeal to all players," suggesting the visuals’ intensity might be polarizing. Additionally, SomosXbox critiqued the "lack of memorable enemies," indicating that while the environments were impressive, the enemy design didn’t fully match the game’s visual ambition. These critiques, though less frequent, reveal that while the game’s visuals are technically strong, they occasionally struggle to maintain consistency or innovation in certain aspects. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with The Outlast Trials being celebrated for its high-quality graphics, atmospheric environments, and technical polish. The game’s ability to blend detailed, grim settings with effective lighting and sound design—as noted by Hobby Consolas and TheXboxHub—creates a deeply immersive horror experience. While some reviewers pointed to repetitive elements or minor technical hiccups, these were often framed as minor drawbacks in an otherwise strong package. The visual design’s success lies in its capacity to evoke fear through grotesque imagery, oppressive settings, and meticulous world-building, as highlighted by COGconnected, Player 2, and Movies Games and Tech. For the most part, the game’s visuals are seen as a standout feature, reinforcing its reputation as a compelling entry in the horror genre and a testament to the capabilities of next-gen hardware.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise The Outlast Trials’ spine-chilling sound design and music for immersive terror, with standout praise for environmental audio, directional cues, and chilling silence. While some critiques highlight repetitive voice acting, technical hiccups, and missed subtlety, these flaws pale next to the overwhelming acclaim. The audio remains a standout force, driving fear and tension to redefine the horror 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 majority of critics praised the sound design and music of The Outlast Trials for their immersive and terrifying contributions to the horror experience. COGconnected highlighted Tom Salta’s musical score as a key element in amplifying fear, while GamersRD and Player 2 emphasized how environmental audio, such as enemy grunts, footsteps, and atmospheric effects, heightened tension. MondoXbox and TheXboxHub commended the directional audio for enhancing cooperative gameplay, and Movies Games and Tech praised the use of silence and chilling enemy voice acting to intensify horror. IGN Italia and KeenGamer noted the technical excellence of the sound design, with the latter recommending headphones for an optimal experience. Checkpoint Gaming and The Jimquisition also lauded the audio’s role in creating a tense, immersive atmosphere, with the latter crediting it for memorable, disturbing sequences. These reviews collectively underscore the sound design’s effectiveness in driving the game’s horror narrative. However, some critics pointed out notable flaws. IGN criticized the repetitive and grating voice acting of the antagonist Mother Gooseberry, which detracted from the experience. SomosXbox found the sound design less impactful despite other strong elements, while New Game Network highlighted technical issues, such as abrupt sound cuts and difficulty pinpointing enemy locations through thin walls. Eurogamer Germany noted a lack of subtle horror, though it acknowledged the game’s ability to maintain a tense, ever-changing atmosphere. These critiques suggest that while the sound design is generally strong, certain aspects—like voice acting consistency and audio precision—fell short of expectations, particularly in specific gameplay scenarios or character portrayals. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily toward admiration for The Outlast Trials’ sound design and music, with most praising their role in crafting a terrifying, immersive horror experience. While a minority of reviews raised concerns about voice acting repetition, technical glitches, or missed opportunities for subtlety, these issues did not overshadow the broader acclaim. The game’s audio effectively complements its gameplay, with many reviewers emphasizing its importance in driving fear and tension. As IGN Italia noted, the sound design and music excel in creating a cohesive, harrowing atmosphere, reinforcing the game’s identity as a horror title. Despite the critiques, the overwhelming sentiment is that the audio elements significantly enhance the experience, making them a standout feature of the game.

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 nails smooth, stable performance across Xbox, PS5, and PC, with 60 FPS and Unreal Engine 4 shine—but Xbox’s AI hiccups, PS5’s input bugs/load times, and PC’s communication glitches dog its polish, proving even a robust foundation needs tweaks.

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 receives generally positive feedback across all platforms, with notable stability and optimization. On Xbox Series X, IGN praised the game for running "smoothly with minimal bugs or performance issues," while MondoXbox highlighted consistent 60 FPS performance, and Player 2 noted a "stable gameplay experience." Multiplayer.it also acknowledged strong technical aspects, though without specifics. For PS5, Everyeye.it commended "smooth performance on next-gen consoles," and SpazioGames highlighted the game’s use of Unreal Engine 4, which "runs smoothly." On PC, New Game Network observed a "good framerate during regular play," though this was tempered by other issues. These reviews collectively suggest that the game is well-optimized, with few major technical hurdles on each platform. However, platform-specific challenges emerge in the critiques. On Xbox Series X, XboxEra pointed to "AI not always being up to the task," hinting at potential technical limitations. For PS5, IGN Italia reported "bugs and input problems impacting gameplay precision," while MeuPlayStation criticized "long loading times due to network connectivity issues." GameOver.gr noted "minor bugs," and SpazioGames mentioned repetitive gameplay that could detract from the experience. On PC, Hooked Gamers flagged issues with "communication tools like indication pings," and New Game Network cited "occasional long loading times" and "abrupt sound cuts." These concerns, while not universal, highlight areas where the game’s technical execution falls short on certain platforms. Despite these issues, the overall consensus among critics leans toward a positive assessment of The Outlast Trials’ technical performance. The game’s stability on Xbox and PS5, along with its smooth engine performance on PS5, aligns with expectations for next-gen titles. While PC and PS5 users encountered specific bugs or optimizations, the majority of reviewers emphasized that these did not significantly detract from the core experience. IGN’s dual-platform praise and the general absence of major technical failures suggest that the game is well-optimized overall, even if some platform-specific hiccups remain. The mixed feedback underscores the importance of targeted fixes, but the technical foundation of The Outlast Trials appears robust.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Outlast Trials delivers strong replay value through co-op, customization, and randomization, but its repetitive missions, limited content, and grind-heavy progression risk leaving players bored after 20 hours. A mixed bag — great for fans of cooperative horror, but shaky on long-term appeal.

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 Outlast Trials receives praise from several critics for its replay value, driven by features like character customization, randomized loot, and enemies, which create variability in each playthrough. COGconnected highlights these elements, noting that weekly challenges and cooperative gameplay enhance engagement, while GamersRD emphasizes teamwork-driven levels and unlockable abilities as key incentives. Hobby Consolas and Player 2 commend the game’s cross-play functionality and the promise of future content updates, which encourage players to return for new trials and experiences. XboxEra and Checkpoint Gaming also point to dynamic level layouts and special challenges, suggesting that the game’s design offers enough diversity to sustain interest, particularly for those drawn to its horror mechanics and progression systems. Additionally, GameSkinny and Push Square note the addictive gameplay loop, where players are motivated to chase higher scores, better gear, and unique cooperative moments, especially when playing with friends. However, multiple critics express concerns about the game’s repetitive nature and limited content, which detract from its long-term appeal. IGN and MondoXbox criticize the lack of changing stages and the monotony of repeating the same missions, leading to player frustration. Multiplayer.it and The Jimquisition argue that repetitive gameplay hinders true cooperation and solo enjoyment, while Everyeye.it and MeuPlayStation point to insufficient incentives for resource farming and a lack of replay value overall. BaziCenter and Hooked Gamers highlight the game’s struggle to maintain engagement beyond 20 hours, and Eurogamer Germany notes that single-player’s linear progression and repetitive environments fail to sustain interest. New Game Network adds that while difficulty modes and unlockables exist, the grind to complete all programs feels unworthy, and the limited number of levels at launch restricts replayability. These critiques suggest that the game’s core mechanics, while engaging initially, risk becoming stale without significant variety or depth. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, with the game’s replay value hinging on player preferences and willingness to overlook its repetitive elements. While many praise its cooperative dynamics, customization, and weekly challenges as strong draws, others argue that these features are insufficient to counteract the monotony of its core structure. TheXboxHub and KeenGamer acknowledge that multiplayer adds chaos and memorable moments, but The Jimquisition and Eurogamer Germany question its long-term viability. Notably, some critics (like IGN and New Game Network) emphasize that post-launch updates or additional content could address these shortcomings, while others (such as BaziCenter and Hooked Gamers) remain skeptical about the game’s sustainability. Ultimately, The Outlast Trials offers a moderate amount of replay value for fans of cooperative horror and progression systems, but its reliance on repetition and limited content may leave many players feeling unfulfilled over time.

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 Outlast Trials receives widespread praise for its cooperative gameplay, atmospheric tension, and technical execution. Critics like COGconnected and IGN highlight its "terrifying experience" and "impressive technical performance," emphasizing the engaging group mechanics and level design that elevate the survival-horror formula. TheXboxHub and Push Square commend its "visually and atmospherically captivating" horror, noting how the multiplayer approach creates memorable moments through teamwork. Movies Games and Tech and KeenGamer laud its "exhilarating and terrifying gameplay," "stunning visuals," and "immersive sound design," while Player 2 and Checkpoint Gaming appreciate the balance between horror and fun, with the latter praising its "seamless cooperative horror experience." The game’s focus on co-op, as noted by GameOver.gr and GAMINGbible, is seen as a fresh twist that retains the series’ core elements of fear and grotesque settings, making it a standout for multiplayer enthusiasts. However, several critics point to significant drawbacks, particularly in solo play and content longevity. Multiplayer.it and Pure Xbox criticize the game for lacking originality and engaging gameplay when played alone, while IGN and Checkpoint Gaming note its "limited levels" and "repetitive nature," which may hinder long-term enjoyment. New Game Network calls it a "tedious and repetitive run-away simulator," and IGN Italia highlights input issues that disrupt gameplay. BaziCenter and COGconnected criticize the narrative, with the former stating the game "falls short in delivering a cohesive narrative experience" despite its graphics. TheXboxHub and Push Square also mention flaws in enemy AI and visual assets, while Eurogamer Germany and Hooked Gamers note repetitive elements in single-player mode, underscoring the game’s reliance on multiplayer for its strengths. Overall, the consensus leans toward a mixed but cautiously optimistic verdict. While IGN, Checkpoint Gaming, and Movies Games and Tech acknowledge its potential for growth with more content, most critics agree that The Outlast Trials shines brightest in co-op scenarios, where its atmosphere and teamwork-driven mechanics resonate most. COGconnected and TheXboxHub emphasize its "strong foundation," while GAMINGbible and KeenGamer suggest it’s a worthwhile experience for horror fans seeking a different multiplayer approach. Despite criticisms of repetition, technical flaws, and solo play shortcomings, the game is broadly seen as a successful experiment for the series, with Player 2 and MeuPlayStation recommending it for its "thrilling cooperative gameplay" and "regular content updates." The divide between co-op and solo experiences remains a key factor in its reception, with the former largely praised and the latter often deemed underwhelming.

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials thrills in co-op with immersive horror, stunning visuals, and teamwork-driven tension, but falters solo with repetition, narrative gaps, and technical hiccups—proving its strength is in multiplayer, not solitude.

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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