After a 25-year hiatus, the Outcast series makes a triumphant comeback with “Outcast: A New Beginning.” Set on the alien planet Adelpha, the sequel introduces a non-linear gameplay experience reminiscent of Nintendo’s acclaimed open-world title, “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.”
Non-linear gameplay
Game director Pablo Coma emphasizes the game’s non-linear approach, allowing players to explore the vast world of Adelpha freely. Following a brief tutorial, players can traverse any part of the terrain without constraints, with no remote locations locked behind an experience system.
Coma highlights the significance of this design choice, stating that while the original Outcast served as the team’s primary inspiration, “Breath of the Wild” provided valuable insights into open-world mechanics. He notes that both games share a common emphasis on player freedom, with “Outcast: A New Beginning” aiming to replicate this sense of liberty while introducing new tools for exploration.
Influence of “Breath of the Wild”
Drawing inspiration from “Breath of the Wild,” the development team integrated various traversal mechanics to enhance the player’s mobility across Adelpha. The game features a gliding suit for swift aerial movement, complemented by a mini-jetpack for traversing water bodies and a hover suit for effortless ground traversal.
Coma underscores the importance of exploration in the game’s expansive world, spanning 64 square kilometers. He hopes that including fast-paced traversal options will incentivize players to uncover every corner of Adelpha, emphasizing the thrill of discovering undiscovered territories.
Expansive world exploration
With its sprawling landscape and diverse environments, “Outcast: A New Beginning” invites players to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. Coma highlights the sheer size of Adelpha, emphasizing that exploration is a fundamental aspect of the game’s enjoyment.
The game’s emphasis on fast-paced traversal aims to entice players to venture into uncharted territories, fostering a sense of curiosity and adventure. As players uncover hidden secrets and aid native populations in their struggle against a mechanized faction, they are encouraged to immerse themselves fully in the richly detailed world of Adelpha.
“Outcast: A New Beginning” marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Outcast series, drawing inspiration from “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” to deliver a captivating open-world experience. With its non-linear gameplay, fast-paced traversal mechanics, and expansive world to explore, the sequel promises to reignite the spirit of adventure for new and returning players.
As players embark on their journey to liberate Adelpha from tyranny, they are invited to embrace the freedom and excitement of exploration, uncovering hidden treasures, and forging alliances. With its blend of nostalgia and innovation, “Outcast: A New Beginning” sets a new standard for open-world gaming, inviting players to embark on an unforgettable adventure across the alien landscapes of Adelpha.
