Outbound: A Post-Apocalyptic RPG Where Choices Matter and Mutants Roam Free!
“Outbound”, Obsidian Entertainment’s 2019 gem of a game, isn’t just another post-apocalyptic RPG; it’s a masterclass in choice and consequence. Picture this: you awaken aboard a Halcyon Mothership orbiting Earth, centuries after a cataclysmic event left the planet irradiated and overrun with mutants. Your memories are fragmented, your purpose unclear, but one thing is certain – your fate hangs precariously in the balance.
Welcome to Halcyon: Where Humanity Fights for Survival (and Coffee)
The game throws you into the heart of Halcyon, a megacorporation-controlled colony ship orbiting Earth. You quickly discover that Halcyon, while seemingly utopian with its shiny chrome and bustling markets, is rife with political intrigue and social inequality. Corporations hold all the power, dictating the lives of their workers and vying for dominance. As you navigate this complex web of alliances and betrayals, your choices will have a profound impact on the fate of Halcyon and its inhabitants.
Choices Matter: Shaping Your Destiny (and Halcyon’s)
Outbound thrives on player agency. Every dialogue choice, every quest decision, even seemingly mundane interactions can ripple outwards, affecting the course of events. Will you side with the ruthless corporations, exploit the system for personal gain, or fight alongside the downtrodden to dismantle Halcyon’s oppressive hierarchy? The possibilities are as diverse as the characters you encounter:
- The Spacer’s Guild: A pragmatic group of skilled traders and explorers who value freedom and independence above all else.
- The Hegemony: A militant faction dedicated to enforcing order and preserving Halcyon’s social structure, even if it means resorting to brutal measures.
- The Iconoclasts: A radical group seeking to dismantle the corporations’ control and usher in a new era of equality and freedom.
Each faction offers its own unique perspective on Halcyon’s problems, presenting compelling arguments for and against their respective ideologies.
Unleash Your Inner Superhero: Skill Trees and Perks Galore!
Outbound doesn’t skimp on character customization either. As you level up, you can invest points in a variety of skill trees, tailoring your character to suit your playstyle. Whether you prefer a stealthy approach, brute force combat, or wielding technology to manipulate the battlefield, there’s a build for you.
| Skill Tree | Description |
|---|---|
| Combat | Enhance your melee and ranged prowess with perks like “Headshot Master” and “Iron Will”. |
| Science | Decipher complex technology, hack security systems, and craft powerful gadgets. |
| Social | Persuade others to see your point of view, gather information through charming conversation, and build trust among allies. |
Beyond the core skill trees, a plethora of perks further refine your character’s abilities. Want to become a master negotiator? Grab the “Silver Tongue” perk. Prefer to go in guns blazing? “Trigger Happy” will increase your critical hit chance.
Explore Halcyon: A World Ripe for Discovery (and Danger!)
Outbound offers a richly detailed world ripe for exploration. From bustling corporate hubs and sprawling industrial complexes to desolate wasteland ruins and treacherous mutant-infested zones, each location has its own unique atmosphere and challenges. Discover hidden quests, uncover ancient secrets, and encounter memorable characters who will leave a lasting impression.
A Symphony of Sound: Immerse Yourself in Halcyon’s Atmosphere
The game’s soundtrack perfectly complements the post-apocalyptic setting, blending haunting melodies with intense action themes to create an immersive soundscape. The voice acting is top-notch, breathing life into the diverse cast of characters and adding weight to their emotional performances.
Outbound: A Worthwhile Journey
For those seeking a truly engaging RPG experience where choices matter, “Outbound” offers a captivating blend of narrative depth, character customization, and world exploration. Prepare to be challenged, to question your own moral compass, and to forge a destiny that will resonate long after the credits roll.