Outlast 2
" Immersive action-adventure horror with innovative camcorder mechanics but drawn-out pacing "
Outlast 2 Review
Outlast 2 is a psychologically intense survival horror game that expands upon its predecessor with a larger, more open environment set in a remote Arizona cult compound. Players follow journalist Blake Langermann as he searches for his wife amidst religious fanaticism, trauma, and disturbing imagery. The game excels in atmosphere, with stunning visuals powered by Unreal Engine 4, immersive sound design, and a narrative that blurs reality and hallucination. Gameplay centers on stealth and evasion, relying on a camcorder's night vision and microphone to navigate threats without combat. While praised for its emotional depth and unsettling tone, many players found the pacing drawn-out, with repetitive segments, especially flashbacks to a school setting, which some felt broke immersion. The story's heavy religious themes and graphic violence divided opinions, with some appreciating its ambition and others criticizing it as clichéd or excessive. Despite flaws, Outlast 2 delivers a haunting experience that challenges players' nerves and leaves a lasting impression.
Highlights
Players consistently praise Outlast 2's atmospheric horror, highlighting its effective sound design and chilling environments. The game's graphics receive acclaim for their detailed, immersive quality using Unreal Engine 4. The storyline, though complex and at times confusing, is recognized for its psychological depth and emotional impact. Gameplay mechanics like stealth, evasion, and the innovative use of a camcorder with night vision and directional microphone enhance tension. Many appreciate the game's ability to sustain dread without relying on cheap jump scares, making it a standout in the horror genre. The emotional narrative and unsettling themes resonate strongly with fans seeking a cerebral horror experience.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's pacing, with many players finding it too long and repetitive, especially due to frequent and tedious school flashback sequences. The linearity in some sections and unclear objectives lead to frustration and immersion breaks. Some players feel the heavy religious themes are clichéd and overused, detracting from the story's originality. The excessive gore and graphic violence are seen by some as desensitizing and detracting from the horror. Gameplay frustrations include clunky UI, trial-and-error chase sequences, and difficulty seeing in dark or foggy areas, which some consider manufactured difficulty. The voiced protagonist's commentary is occasionally viewed as annoying or exposition-heavy.
Pros
- • Immersive and atmospheric horror with excellent sound design and visuals.
- • Psychologically deep and emotionally engaging storyline.
- • Innovative gameplay mechanics using camcorder night vision and directional microphone.
- • Open, detailed environments that enhance tension and exploration.
- • Sustains dread effectively without relying on cheap jump scares.
- • Strong thematic focus on trauma, guilt, and religious fanaticism.
- • High production values with Unreal Engine 4 graphics.
Cons
- • Pacing is drawn-out and repetitive, especially due to excessive flashbacks.
- • Linear sections and unclear objectives cause frustration and immersion breaks.
- • Heavy religious themes feel clichéd and sometimes pretentious.
- • Excessive gore and violence can desensitize and detract from horror.
- • Clunky UI and unintuitive item management hinder gameplay flow.
- • Trial-and-error chase sequences reduce tension and increase annoyance.
- • Visibility issues in dark or foggy areas create manufactured difficulty.
Rating Criteria
Outlast 2 introduces you to Sullivan Knoth and his followers, who left our wicked world behind to give birth to Temple Gate, a town, deep in the wilderness and hidden from civilization. Knoth and his flock are preparing for the tribulations of the end of times and you’re right in the thick of it.
