Unlike traditional fantasy RPGs where you play as a legendary hero, Outward places you in the role of an ordinary adventurer. Survival is never guaranteed, and even simple journeys require careful planning.

Every expedition demands preparation. Players must gather supplies, monitor their physical condition, craft useful equipment, and make tactical decisions before venturing into hostile environments. Exploration is highly rewarding, with hidden dungeons, rare treasures, and dangerous creatures waiting throughout the world of Aurai.

The Definitive Edition combines the original game with both major expansions, introducing new regions, additional dungeons, enhanced mechanics, city-building features, enchanting, balance improvements, and numerous gameplay refinements.

Story

You begin your journey burdened by a family debt in the coastal city of Cierzo. Rather than being destined to save the world, you must earn your place through hard work, exploration, and survival.

As your adventure unfolds, you'll encounter powerful factions, uncover ancient secrets, discover forgotten civilizations, and influence the future of Aurai through your choices.

Gameplay Overview

Outward blends several genres into one immersive adventure:

• Open-world exploration
• Survival gameplay
• Action RPG combat
• Character progression
• Magic system
• Crafting
• City building
• Dungeon exploration
• Local and online co-op

Every expedition requires planning, making every victory feel meaningful.

Main Features

Massive Open World

Explore forests, deserts, mountains, swamps, frozen landscapes, and ancient ruins filled with hidden dangers and valuable rewards.

True Survival Mechanics

Manage:

• Hunger
• Thirst
• Fatigue
• Temperature
• Disease
• Equipment durability

Ignoring survival needs can be just as deadly as enemy attacks.

Deep Character Building

There are no fixed character classes. Develop your own build by combining:

• Warrior skills
• Magic disciplines
• Rogue abilities
• Defensive techniques
• Passive bonuses

Every decision shapes your playstyle.

Local and Online Co-op

Adventure with a friend through split-screen local co-op or online cooperative multiplayer for up to two players.

Dynamic Magic System

Magic requires preparation rather than simple button presses. Players combine spells, sigils, and elemental effects to create powerful combinations.

Included Expansions

The Definitive Edition includes:

• Base Game
• The Soroboreans
• The Three Brothers

Along with additional improvements and exclusive content.

Explore the World of Aurai

Major regions include:

• Chersonese
• Enmerkar Forest
• Abrassar Desert
• Hallowed Marsh
• Antique Plateau
• Caldera

Each region introduces unique climates, enemies, quests, and resources.

Survival System

Players must prepare for every journey.

Essential survival elements include:

• Cooking food
• Purifying water
• Crafting camping equipment
• Repairing weapons
• Sleeping safely
• Treating illnesses
• Protecting against extreme weather

Preparation often determines survival.

Combat System

Combat rewards patience and planning.

Players can use:

• Swords
• Axes
• Spears
• Halberds
• Bows
• Pistols
• Shields
• Magical abilities

Blocking, dodging, stamina management, and positioning are all essential for success.

Magic and Enchantments

The Definitive Edition expands magical gameplay with:

• Sigil combinations
• Rune magic
• Hexes
• Elemental attacks
• Powerful enchantments

More than 85 enchantment recipes allow players to customize weapons, armor, and equipment.

City Building

One of the major additions allows players to help rebuild New Sirocco.

Manage:

• Building placement
• Resource collection
• Population growth
• Specialized facilities
• City development

These decisions unlock new opportunities and equipment.

Character Progression

Instead of traditional leveling, players become stronger by:

• Learning new skills
• Finding better equipment
• Unlocking passive abilities
• Joining factions
• Mastering magic
• Crafting superior gear

Skill choices permanently shape each character.

Beginner Tips

New adventurers should:

• Carry enough food and clean water.
• Always bring a bedroll.
• Avoid fighting multiple enemies.
• Learn enemy attack patterns.
• Upgrade backpacks early.
• Keep spare weapons.
• Explore cautiously.
• Save supplies for long expeditions.

Advanced Strategy

Experienced players should:

• Build hybrid combat styles.
• Combine magic with melee attacks.
• Prepare elemental resistance gear.
• Use traps before difficult encounters.
• Master enchantments.
• Plan routes based on weather.
• Establish efficient inventory management.

Graphics and Audio

Outward: Definitive Edition features enhanced lighting, improved textures, refined environmental effects, and atmospheric music that bring the fantasy world of Aurai to life. Every region has a distinct visual identity, making exploration consistently engaging.

Xbox Features

The Xbox version includes:

• Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
• Single-player
• Local split-screen co-op
• Online co-op
• Xbox achievements
• Shared/split screen support

Strengths

• Deep survival mechanics
• Flexible character customization
• Meaningful exploration
• Excellent co-op gameplay
• Rich fantasy world
• Rewarding magic system
• Included DLC expansions
• High replay value

Things to Consider

• The game has a steep learning curve.
• Survival mechanics require careful resource management.
• Combat is intentionally challenging and methodical.

Why Players Love Outward

Players appreciate Outward because it rewards preparation and discovery rather than rushing through combat. Every expedition feels like a genuine adventure, and the freedom to build unique characters, explore vast regions, and survive together with friends creates a memorable RPG experience. Community discussions also frequently praise the Definitive Edition for integrating DLC content throughout the world and improving overall gameplay.

Similar Games

• Dragon's Dogma 2
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
• The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
• GreedFall
• ELEX II
• Elden Ring
• Gothic Remake
• Valheim

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Outward: Definitive Edition include all DLC?

Yes. It includes the base game along with The Soroboreans and The Three Brothers expansions, plus additional improvements.

Can I play with friends?

Yes. The game supports both local split-screen and online co-op for two players.

Is Outward an open-world RPG?

Yes. Players can freely explore the interconnected world of Aurai while completing quests and discovering hidden locations.

Is there a traditional leveling system?

No. Character growth comes from learning skills, acquiring better equipment, joining factions, and improving your survival abilities.

Is the Definitive Edition optimized for Xbox Series X|S?

Yes. It is specifically optimized for Xbox Series X|S consoles.

Final Verdict

Outward: Definitive Edition offers one of the most rewarding survival RPG experiences available on Xbox. Its combination of meaningful exploration, challenging combat, realistic survival mechanics, deep character customization, and cooperative gameplay creates an unforgettable fantasy adventure. Players seeking a thoughtful RPG that rewards preparation and perseverance will find countless hours of engaging content in Aurai.

Expert Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.3/10