Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Steam

Epic

Twitch

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 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

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials impresses with its Cold War backdrop and chilling multiplayer gameplay, creating an immersive atmosphere that critics appreciate. However, many feel the story is weak and serves merely as a backdrop for gameplay, lacking character development and depth. The narrative's reliance on mechanics leads to repetitive experiences, alienating those seeking a compelling plot. Overall, while it's gripping and terrifying, it fails to deliver a meaningful story, leaving a mixed reception among players.

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 story of The Outlast Trials has garnered some appreciation from critics for its immersive setting and thematic elements. Many reviewers, such as KeenGamer and MondoXbox, highlight the intriguing backdrop of the Cold War and the sinister experiments conducted by the Murkoff Corporation, which adds a layer of historical context to the narrative. The cooperative multiplayer aspect, noted by GamersRD and IGN Italia, is also praised for enhancing the gameplay experience, allowing players to face the horrors together while navigating through the trials. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Movies Games and Tech appreciate the game's ability to create a sense of mystery and suspense, with hidden collectibles and notes that enrich the lore, albeit indirectly. However, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with the depth and coherence of the story. Many, including IGN and Pure Xbox, point out that the narrative feels weak and serves primarily as a vehicle for gameplay rather than a compelling story in its own right. The lack of character development and engaging plotlines is a recurring theme, with reviewers like SomosXbox and New Game Network noting that the characters feel like mere imitations rather than well-rounded individuals. Critics also mention that the game relies heavily on gameplay mechanics, which can detract from the narrative experience, leading to a perception of repetitive and shallow storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Outlast Trials presents an engaging premise and a chilling atmosphere, it ultimately falls short in delivering a meaningful and cohesive story. The game's focus on survival challenges and gameplay mechanics overshadows the narrative, leading to a mixed reception. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and DarkZero emphasize that the lack of a central story may alienate players seeking a more profound narrative experience. Thus, while the game successfully immerses players in a terrifying environment, it struggles to provide the depth and richness in storytelling that many had hoped for.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials impresses with its cooperative gameplay and survival mechanics, promoting teamwork and strategic engagement. Critics praise the innovative psychosis mechanic and randomized environments, but many warn of repetitiveness and a lack of depth in objectives, especially in single-player mode. While the game offers solid cooperative experiences, it risks becoming tedious without more variety and engaging content to maintain player interest.

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 various critics, particularly regarding its cooperative elements and survival mechanics. Reviewers like COGconnected and MondoXbox highlight the strong emphasis on teamwork, with mechanics that require players to work together to navigate traps and complete objectives. The incorporation of survival puzzle elements, as noted by GamersRD, adds depth to the experience, while the psychosis bar mechanic introduces an innovative twist to the gameplay. Critics such as XboxEra and KeenGamer appreciate the cooperative play aspect, which enhances engagement and strategy, allowing players to face trials together and utilize various abilities for survival. The randomized environments, as mentioned by COGconnected, keep the gameplay fresh and maintain a sense of tension throughout. However, several critiques point to significant drawbacks in the gameplay experience, primarily revolving around repetitiveness and a lack of depth. IGN and Multiplayer.it express concerns over the limited number of levels and the repetitive nature of the objectives, which can lead to diminishing excitement over time. Critics like Pure Xbox and The Jimquisition indicate that the core gameplay loop can feel dull and unsatisfying, especially in single-player mode, where the absence of meaningful scares and varied objectives detracts from the overall tension. Moreover, BaziCenter and New Game Network highlight issues with predictable AI behavior and overused mechanics, suggesting that the game may not offer enough variety to maintain long-term interest. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Outlast Trials successfully introduces engaging cooperative gameplay and maintains core survival horror elements, it suffers from repetitive mechanics and a lack of depth in objectives. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Eurogamer Germany commend the strategic and stealth aspects of the gameplay, but many, including Pure Xbox and IGN, caution that the experience may become tedious over time. The balance between cooperative fun and the need for more varied content appears to be a central theme in the reviews, indicating that while the game has potential, it may require further refinement to fully capture the essence of the original Outlast experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials impresses with stunning visuals and immersive environments that amplify the horror experience, earning high praise for its detailed design, lighting, and sound effects. While critics highlight minor flaws like repetitive asset usage and uninspired enemy designs, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, marking it as a standout title in the horror genre.

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 overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of The Outlast Trials is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising the game's stunning visuals and immersive environments. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and GamersRD, highlighted the beautifully designed environments that are both detailed and unsettling, effectively creating a sense of horror through explicit gore and disturbing imagery. The lighting and sound effects were also commended, with Hobby Consolas noting how these elements contribute to the game's intense atmosphere. Reviewers like Pure Xbox and TheXboxHub emphasized the impressive visual polish and atmospheric design, with specific mention of the game's ability to maintain high frame rates and minimal dropped frames on next-gen consoles, further enhancing the overall experience. Despite the high praise, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the game's visual design. For instance, SomosXbox mentioned that while the visual design is impressive, it falls short in creating memorable enemy designs. Additionally, Push Square noted some repetitiveness in asset usage, such as mannequins and cardboard cutouts, which could detract from the overall visual experience. IGN Italia also raised concerns about input cleanliness impacting gameplay precision, hinting at potential technical issues that could affect immersion. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, there are aspects that could benefit from further refinement. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Outlast Trials features exceptional graphics and visual design that significantly enhance the horror experience. Reviewers like MondoXbox and Movies Games and Tech emphasized the game's ability to create immersive and chilling environments, showcasing the capabilities of new-gen hardware. While some minor criticisms exist regarding asset repetition and enemy design, the majority of critics agree that the game successfully captures the essence of horror through its stunning visuals, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials scores high with critics for its spine-chilling sound design and music that amplify horror. Tom Salta's score and immersive audio cues enhance the terrifying atmosphere, especially in cooperative gameplay. However, some voice acting, notably from antagonist Mother Gooseberry, falls flat, and there are complaints about audio clarity that could disrupt immersion. Despite these flaws, the consensus is clear: the sound design is pivotal to the game's success, keeping players on edge throughout the 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 reviews for the sound design and music of The Outlast Trials are largely positive, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive and terrifying atmosphere. Critics like COGconnected praise Tom Salta's musical score for amplifying the horror, while GamersRD emphasizes the effectiveness of enemy grunts and footsteps in enhancing the overall atmosphere. The directional audio noted by MondoXbox is particularly appreciated for its role in cooperative gameplay, adding a layer of immersion that is crucial for a horror experience. Similarly, Movies Games and Tech commend the top-notch sound design, where audio cues significantly contribute to building tension and fear, especially during chase sequences. Overall, many reviewers agree that the sound design is a key element in elevating the horror experience, with immersive audio cues that keep players on edge. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. IGN points out that while the sound design complements the gameplay, certain voice acting performances, particularly that of the antagonist Mother Gooseberry, can be annoying and repetitive. SomosXbox also expresses that the sound design did not have the impactful effect expected, despite the well-executed gore and atmosphere. New Game Network raises concerns about audio issues, such as sounds cutting off abruptly and challenges in pinpointing enemy locations, which could detract from the overall experience. These criticisms suggest that while the sound design is generally effective, there are areas that could benefit from refinement to enhance player immersion. The overall consensus among critics is that The Outlast Trials excels in creating a chilling and immersive horror atmosphere through its sound design and music. While many reviewers, such as KeenGamer and GameOver.gr, highlight the importance of sound in enhancing the gameplay experience, there are notable critiques regarding certain aspects of voice acting and audio clarity. Despite these shortcomings, the majority of critics agree that the sound design plays a crucial role in delivering a tense and engaging horror experience, making it a significant aspect of the game that contributes to its overall success.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials shines on Xbox Series X with smooth 60 FPS and minimal bugs, earning high praise for its stability. However, the PlayStation 5 version struggles with bugs and loading issues, while the PC version faces multiplayer and audio problems. Overall, Xbox is the clear winner for technical performance, leaving PS5 and PC needing improvements.

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 various platforms, particularly on the Xbox Series X. Critics like IGN and MondoXbox highlight the game's smooth performance, noting it runs at 60 FPS with minimal bugs or performance issues, which showcases impressive stability. Player 2 also echoes this sentiment, emphasizing a stable gameplay experience without any reported technical concerns. Multiplayer.it notes strong technical aspects, albeit without specific details, which further supports the notion of a well-optimized experience on Xbox consoles. On the PlayStation 5, Everyeye.it praises the smooth performance and commendable technical aspects, while GameOver.gr mentions only minor bugs, indicating a largely positive experience. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out, particularly on the PlayStation 5. IGN Italia raises concerns about bugs and input problems that affect gameplay precision, especially during high-stress moments. MeuPlayStation also highlights long loading times attributed to network connectivity issues, which could detract from the overall experience. On the Xbox Series X, XboxEra mentions potential technical performance issues related to AI behavior, which could impact gameplay dynamics. On PC, Hooked Gamers notes issues with communication tools, while New Game Network points out occasional long loading times in multiplayer and problems with audio propagation, indicating that the technical performance is not uniformly strong across all platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Outlast Trials performs admirably on Xbox Series X, with a stable and smooth experience, the PlayStation 5 version faces some technical challenges, particularly with bugs and loading times. The PC version, while generally stable, has its own set of issues related to multiplayer functionality and audio. This mixed reception indicates that the game's technical performance is platform-dependent, with Xbox Series X standing out as the most reliable option, while the PlayStation 5 and PC versions have room for improvement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials offers mixed replay value. Critics praise customizable characters, cooperative gameplay, and weekly challenges as engaging elements. However, concerns about repetitive gameplay and limited content loom large, risking long-term player interest. While there's potential for improvement, the game's future replay appeal hinges on addressing these shortcomings.

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 overall sentiment regarding the replay value of The Outlast Trials is mixed, with several critics highlighting positive aspects that can keep players engaged. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and Player 2, appreciate the character customization options, randomized loot, and cooperative gameplay, which enhance the replayability of the game. GamersRD notes that teamwork is essential, with levels designed to promote cooperative play, while Hobby Consolas emphasizes the importance of cross-play and new challenges that can keep players returning. The inclusion of weekly challenges and unlockable modes, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming and GameSkinny, also contributes to a sense of ongoing engagement, suggesting that there is a foundation for replay value that can be built upon. However, a significant number of critics point out the game's shortcomings that detract from its long-term replayability. IGN and MondoXbox express concerns about the repetitive nature of the gameplay, emphasizing that running the same stages repeatedly can lead to player frustration and a lack of sustained interest. Multiplayer.it echoes this sentiment, noting that the repetitive gameplay hinders cooperation and makes solo play nearly unplayable. Critics like MeuPlayStation and The Jimquisition also highlight the limitations of linear progression and the lack of varied gameplay, suggesting that these factors could significantly impact the game's appeal over time. In summary, while there are several features that provide a solid foundation for replay value in The Outlast Trials, such as character customization and cooperative gameplay, the consensus among critics leans towards a cautious outlook due to the game's repetitive nature and limited content. Critics like IGN and BaziCenter warn that these issues could hinder long-term engagement, despite the potential for future updates and improvements. Overall, the game presents an intriguing experience, but its replay value may ultimately depend on the developers' ability to address these concerns and introduce more varied content in the future.

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 has garnered a mix of opinions from critics, highlighting several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and GamersRD, praise the game's cooperative mechanics and engaging level design, emphasizing the fun of playing with friends. The game is described as visually disturbing and strategically challenging, which enhances the horror experience, as noted by Hobby Consolas and TheXboxHub. Additionally, critics like Movies Games and Tech commend the game's stunning visuals, sound design, and the successful blend of cooperative gameplay with horror elements, making it a recommended title for fans of the genre. The multiplayer aspect is frequently highlighted as a significant strength, with many reviewers noting that the game excels in creating a terrifying atmosphere when played in groups. However, The Outlast Trials is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including IGN and Multiplayer.it, point out the game's lack of a compelling story and limited variety in levels, which may affect long-term enjoyment. The repetitive nature of gameplay, particularly in solo play, is a common concern, with critics like New Game Network labeling it a "tedious and repetitive run-away simulator." Additionally, some critics note technical issues, such as input problems and AI inconsistencies, which can detract from the overall experience. Pure Xbox and BaziCenter also mention that while the game has a cool concept, it falls short in delivering meaningful scares and a cohesive narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Outlast Trials offers a unique and enjoyable cooperative horror experience, particularly for fans of the series. While the game has its flaws—such as a lack of variety, a compelling story, and some technical issues—many reviewers agree that it provides an intense and engaging gameplay experience when played with friends. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and KeenGamer emphasize the potential for long-term engagement through future content updates, suggesting that the game has a solid foundation that could be built upon. Despite its shortcomings, The Outlast Trials is seen as a successful experiment in the franchise, appealing to those seeking a fresh multiplayer horror experience.

TL;DR

The Outlast Trials impresses with its cooperative mechanics, stunning visuals, and engaging level design, making it a hit among friends for horror fans. However, critics note flaws like a weak story, limited level variety, and technical issues that hamper solo play. Despite these drawbacks, it’s praised as a solid multiplayer horror experience with potential for future updates.

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review