In the realm of action games, few titles deliver the visceral thrill and adrenaline-pumping gameplay like “Outriders.” Developed by People Can Fly, the studio behind critically acclaimed shooters like Gears of War Judgement and Bulletstorm, Outriders plunges players into a bleak, dystopian future where humanity struggles to survive on Enoch, a hostile alien planet. This third-person shooter RPG marries frenetic combat with deep character customization and a gripping narrative that explores themes of survival, humanity’s relationship with technology, and the seductive allure of power.
The Setting: Enoch, A Playground of Danger and Wonder
Picture this: Earth is ravaged by environmental disasters, forcing humanity to seek refuge among the stars. A colossal ark carrying millions of colonists sets its sights on Enoch, a planet teeming with untamed wilderness and shrouded in an enigmatic anomaly known as “the Anomaly.” This celestial phenomenon grants individuals extraordinary abilities but twists them into monstrous creatures.
As Outriders, you are genetically modified soldiers tasked with pacifying Enoch and paving the way for colonization. You awaken from cryosleep thirty years later to find the colony fractured and besieged by hostile factions, mutated beasts, and the relentless Anomaly itself.
The Characters: Unleash Your Inner Superhero
Outriders offer four distinct classes – each with unique abilities and playstyles:
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Technomancer: This class wields the power of the Anomaly to manipulate technology, summoning turrets, deploying destructive energy blasts, and even controlling hostile creatures.
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Pyromancer: Wielding flames and pyrokinetic power, the Pyromancer incinerates enemies with molten projectiles, scorching ground traps, and fiery explosions.
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Trickster: Masters of time manipulation and teleportation, Tricksters can dodge attacks with uncanny grace, unleash deadly temporal blasts, and vanish into thin air to outmaneuver their foes.
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Devastator: This powerhouse class thrives in close combat. They wield seismic waves and earth-shattering blows to crush enemies and control the battlefield.
Each class offers a plethora of customization options through skill trees and weapon mods, allowing you to tailor your build to your preferred playstyle. Whether you’re a cunning sniper, a ruthless berserker, or a strategic support player, Outriders empowers you to carve your path to victory.
Gameplay: A Symphony of Gunplay, Explosions, and Superpowers
Outriders’ combat is a frenetic dance of destruction. The game encourages aggressive play, rewarding you for pushing forward and unleashing your powers against hordes of enemies.
The gunplay feels incredibly satisfying, with a variety of weapons at your disposal, from classic assault rifles and shotguns to futuristic energy weapons and Anomaly-infused blades. Weapon customization adds another layer of depth, allowing you to fine-tune your arsenal for maximum damage or elemental effects.
Alongside your trusty weaponry, you’ll utilize your class abilities to unleash devastating attacks and manipulate the battlefield. The Technomancer’s turrets provide covering fire while the Pyromancer melts groups of enemies with molten flames. The Trickster can teleport behind unsuspecting foes for a swift execution, and the Devastator can create shockwaves to send opponents flying.
Co-op: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Outriders truly shines in co-op mode. Team up with two other players to tackle challenging missions, share loot, and synergize your powers for devastating combos. Coordinating abilities is key to success – a Technomancer’s turret can draw enemy fire while a Pyromancer unleashes a wave of flames for maximum damage.
The game encourages communication and tactical thinking as you work together to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.
A Stunning Visual Feast and an Eerie Soundtrack:
Outriders immerses players in a world ravaged by beauty and danger. From the overgrown ruins of ancient civilizations to the volcanic landscapes and bioluminescent forests of Enoch, the environments are breathtakingly detailed and alive with atmosphere. The character models are equally impressive, showcasing nuanced expressions and intricate designs.
The soundtrack perfectly complements the game’s tone. The haunting melodies underscore the desolate world while adrenaline-pumping scores punctuate intense firefights, adding to the immersive experience.
A Few Nitpicks:
While Outriders delivers a thrilling experience overall, there are a few minor drawbacks worth mentioning:
- Server Issues: Online connectivity can be inconsistent at times, leading to frustrating disconnections and matchmaking delays. This is a common issue for online games and hopefully will be addressed with future updates.
- Repetitive Missions: While the environments are varied, some missions can feel repetitive in terms of objectives.
Conclusion: A Must-Play for Action RPG Fans
Outriders is a stellar addition to the action RPG genre. Its compelling storyline, deep character customization, and adrenaline-pumping gameplay offer countless hours of entertainment. Whether you prefer solo adventures or teaming up with friends, Outriders delivers an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more.
Feature | Description |
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Genre | Action RPG Shooter |
Developer | People Can Fly |
Platforms | PC, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X/S |
Multiplayer | Online Co-op (up to 3 players) |
Release Date | April 1, 2021 |