New game design studio Red Barrels has released more details regarding its new Outlast first-person-shooter horror title they are currently developing, which is powered by the Unreal Games Engine.
Outlast will be launching on Steam next summer, but the studio released a trailer for the new game on Halloween. Watch the video after the jump to learn more about the Outlast project and see it in action.
In an interview with games website Joystiq, Red Barrels co-founders Philippe Morin and David Chateauneuf explained a little more about the game and its dynamics.
“So the core of the game is pretty much like a stealth game, so you have to avoid enemies, hide from enemies and run away from enemies,” Red Barrels co-founder Philippe Morin told Joystiq. “But the action comes into play when you have to run from them, so this is where we are using our experience making games like Prince of Persia and Assassin’s Creed. To try and make the chases as exciting as possible.”
“That’s the thing about survival horror: if you’re empowered, then the threat is not as big. You feel you have to be proactive to fight back. But if you know there is no way you can fight back, then that’s when I think the horror is most effective.”
Innovative Gameplay Mechanics
Outlast aims to redefine the survival horror genre by focusing on vulnerability and fear. Unlike traditional first-person shooters where players are equipped with an arsenal of weapons, Outlast strips you down to the bare essentials. The game emphasizes stealth and evasion over combat, making every encounter with enemies a heart-pounding experience. The developers have drawn inspiration from other successful horror games like Amnesia: The Dark Descent, which also focuses on hiding and running rather than fighting.
The game is set in an abandoned psychiatric hospital, a setting that naturally lends itself to a terrifying atmosphere. Players will need to use their wits to navigate through dark corridors, avoid detection, and uncover the mysteries that lie within. The use of the Unreal Engine allows for highly detailed environments and realistic lighting effects, which further enhance the sense of dread and immersion.
Story and Atmosphere
The narrative of Outlast is deeply intertwined with its gameplay. Players take on the role of investigative journalist Miles Upshur, who breaks into the Mount Massive Asylum following a tip from an anonymous source. As Miles delves deeper into the asylum, he uncovers horrifying secrets and encounters deranged inmates. The story is revealed through environmental storytelling, documents, and audio recordings, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny of the asylum.
The atmosphere is a crucial component of Outlast’s horror. The game employs a dynamic sound design that reacts to the player’s actions, making every creak and whisper feel like a potential threat. The asylum itself is a character, with its decaying walls and flickering lights adding to the sense of unease. The developers have paid meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every element of the environment contributes to the overall horror experience.
Community and Future Updates
Red Barrels has expressed a strong commitment to engaging with the gaming community. They have been actively seeking feedback from early testers and incorporating suggestions to refine the gameplay experience. The studio plans to release regular updates and additional content post-launch, ensuring that players have new challenges and stories to look forward to.
In conclusion, Outlast promises to be a groundbreaking entry in the survival horror genre. With its focus on stealth, atmosphere, and narrative, it aims to deliver a truly terrifying experience. The use of the Unreal Engine allows for stunning visuals and immersive environments, making every moment in the game feel intense and real. As we await its release next summer, the trailer and developer insights have certainly piqued our interest and set high expectations for what is to come.
Source: Joystiq
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