Outer Terror doesn’t break the mould. Instead, it uses tried and tested mechanics and dated 80s and 90s nostalgia to get your juices flowing. Moreover, its moreish gameplay and straightforward ideas make this simple to learn, but a tough game to put down. Accordingly, this is an intense and enjoyable indie experience.
This arena-based rogue-like was developed by Salt and Pixel LLC and published by Ratalaika Games. Additionally, it can be enjoyed alone or with another player. This cooperative action adds depth to an otherwise well-trodden genre. What’s more, the clichéd comic book art style and the familiar horror gameplay will impress and scare you in equal measure.
Outer Terror focuses on its heroes.
This 80s/90s-inspired adventure has 5 unbelievable and unique stories to enjoy. Moreover, there is an array of sinister monsters to overcome. However, that is not all! You must explore vast maps and tackle enormous boss battles as you try to complete each outlandish plot.
You control one of 10 heroic individuals. These hardcore warriors must explore deadly environments whilst completing an array of tasks. With a never-ending wave of enemies to defeat and plenty of weapons to choose from, each playthrough is never the same. On top of this, each of the protagonists has a special weapon and a list of strengths and weaknesses that must be considered if you wish to be victorious. Though the differences between characters can be minimal, it offers enough variety to keep you focused throughout.
Simple mechanics.
Each playthrough follows a similar pattern. You must choose whether to go it alone or ask a friend to play cooperatively. Next, you must select your character and pick your story. After this, all hell breaks loose as you complete each quest and explore the vast wilderness. En route, you’ll encounter monsters and creatures that will make your skin crawl. What’s more, you will pick up coins and earn temporary XP to improve your character.
As your character improves, you may select from a limited number of weapons. Each slot can be upgraded and once you maximise your potential, you will face an enormous boss. Yet, getting to the boss battle is no easy feat as you will have your ass kicked multiple times. Additionally, the environments can be tough to explore, and each side quest will test your ability and patience. Subsequently, getting to each boss encounter should be considered an achievement in itself.
Upgrades and an arsenal of weapons.
In typical genre fashion, Outer Terror has a list of temporary and permanent upgrades. The latter can be accessed before you start each hellish run. However, affording each of these bonus abilities is a challenge. Unless you work hard, or you are extremely lucky, you will have to grind away to improve your hero.
If that isn’t enough, you can improve your chances of survival as your character gains XP during each playthrough. With an array of options to pick from, you can specialise your skills to match your approach. As such, you can lean towards a defensive build. Alternatively, you can upgrade your weaponry and hope this is enough to survive.
Outer Terror has old-school vibes.
The colour palette, comic book cinematic, and simple pixelated graphics emit an old-school vibe. I adored this dated approach and I enjoyed every cinematic treat. On top of this, the animation is basic but effective and the monsters are laughable and terrifying simultaneously. My only complaint is the monster’s ability to move through buildings. This issue was stupid and unfair. What’s more, it delivers an unpolished finish that tarnishes the end product.
The audio was more rounded and enjoyable to listen to. The soundtrack is aggressive and upbeat. The blend of heavy tracks and synth music matched the 80s theme. Moreover, the loud and uncomfortable sound effects enhance the drama without being OTT or annoying.
Brilliant controls.
Like Brotato and Vampire Survivors, Outer Terror uses a simple control layout. You may unlock usable items and special perks. However, it is a mostly automated title that requires you to avoid your foes and allow the auto shooting to rule the roost. This rudimentary idea may annoy you, but there were some tactical elements. Once you unlock certain tools and skills, you can manipulate different situations to your advantage. I loved this basic idea as it added depth to an otherwise simple approach.
If you don’t mind repeatedly losing your progress, this game will be right up your street. The cruel nature of each playthrough is hard to swallow. Additionally, the unbalanced and expensive upgrades make the action far too grindy for my liking. I’d have preferred a more considered upgrade system as it would have improved things considerably.
Despite its minor issues, Outer Terror is fantastic.
If the developers could tweak the balancing issues, then Outer Terror would be a challenger to Vampire Survivors. However, it doesn’t quite compare and this may disappoint. Yet, if you want a simplified and fun nod to 80s/90s horror, then this is the game for you. I love the aesthetics and the wonderful learning curve. Accordingly, I recommend buying it here! Can you complete each chapter? Choose a hero, explore each vast land, and kill every boss you face.
