
Outriders throws you into a desperate struggle for survival on Enoch, a hostile planet ravaged by an anomaly known as “The Anomaly.” This isn’t your typical run-and-gun shooter; it’s a thrilling blend of science fiction and third-person action, spiced with a hefty dose of loot. Imagine Destiny meets Gears of War, with a touch of The Division thrown in for good measure.
A Planet Gone Wrong
Enoch was supposed to be humanity’s salvation – a new world ripe for colonization after Earth became unsustainable. However, the colonists quickly discovered that Enoch held dangerous secrets. “The Anomaly” began wreaking havoc, twisting both the environment and its inhabitants with unpredictable energy storms and mutations. The initial wave of colonists, including your character, were caught in this cataclysm, emerging from cryostasis decades later into a world teeming with monstrous creatures and struggling human factions.
Choose Your Path to Devastation
Outriders allows you to select from four distinct classes, each with unique abilities and playstyles:
Class | Description |
---|---|
Trickster | Manipulates time and space, using teleportation and slowing fields. |
Pyromancer | Commands fire and ash, incinerating enemies and creating fiery traps. |
Devastator | A tanky class wielding earth-shattering powers, capable of absorbing damage and dealing heavy blows. |
Techomancer | Manipulates technology, deploying turrets, drones, and shields for strategic advantage. |
No matter your choice, you’ll be unleashing devastating combos against hordes of enemies. The combat is visceral and satisfying, with each shot feeling impactful and every ability leaving a mark. The loot system is also a key element – acquiring new weapons and armor is crucial for progress and tailoring your build to your preferred playstyle.
A Narrative Woven Through Blood and Fire
While the core gameplay revolves around blasting enemies and looting powerful gear, Outriders doesn’t skimp on narrative. You uncover the fate of previous colonists, encounter different factions vying for power, and unravel the mysteries surrounding The Anomaly. Choices you make throughout the campaign influence relationships with allies and shape the final outcome.
The worldbuilding is detailed and immersive, with environmental storytelling adding depth to Enoch’s desolate beauty and danger. Audio logs left behind by past colonists paint a poignant picture of their struggles and hopes, while encountering mutated creatures forces you to adapt to constantly shifting threats.
Co-op Mayhem for Up To Three Players
Outriders truly shines when played with friends. The co-op experience allows up to three players to team up and tackle missions together, combining different class abilities for devastating synergy. Communication and coordination are essential for surviving intense encounters, but the camaraderie forged through shared victories is undeniably rewarding.
A Technical Triumph (Mostly!)
Developed by People Can Fly, renowned for their work on Bulletstorm and Gears of War: Judgment, Outriders showcases impressive technical prowess.
-
Graphics: The environments are beautifully rendered, from the desolate landscapes of Enoch to the decaying remnants of colonial settlements. Character models are detailed, and animations fluid, bringing the world and its inhabitants to life.
-
Sound Design: The soundtrack is atmospheric and enhances the tension of combat encounters. Sound effects are impactful, making each gunshot and ability use satisfyingly visceral.
However, it’s worth noting that Outriders faced some technical issues at launch. Server instability and bugs hampered the initial player experience. While People Can Fly has been diligently addressing these issues through patches and updates, it’s important to acknowledge them as part of the game’s history.
Final Verdict: A Looter Shooter Worth Exploring
Outriders is a compelling looter shooter that offers a unique blend of action, science fiction, and cooperative gameplay. Its strong narrative, diverse class system, and satisfying combat make it a worthy addition to any gamer’s library. While technical hiccups marred the initial launch, ongoing support from the developers promises a smoother experience for future players.
If you’re looking for an action-packed adventure with friends or crave a loot grind that doesn’t feel repetitive, Outriders is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared to face some monstrous creatures along the way – and remember, there’s always time for one more loot box!