The Outlast Trials
In short: The Outlast Trials is an action game released in 2023 by Red Barrels, available on PC, PlayStation and Xbox. Our score: 8.5/10 (highly recommended).
Co-op psychological horror
{"title":"The Outlast Trials","description":"The Outlast Trials plunges players into the horrifying world of the Cold War-era Murkoff Corporation's unethical human experimentation. Set in 1959, you are one of many unfortunate souls kidnapped and subjected to a series of gruesome 'Trials' designed to test the limits of human endurance, sanity, and morality. Unlike its predecessors, The Outlast Trials introduces a co-operative element, allowing players to face the terror together with up to three other brave (or foolish) individuals. This shift fundamentally alters the experience, transforming pure survival horror into a desperate fight for collective escape.\n\nGameplay in The Outlast Trials retains the core tenets of the Outlast series: stealth, evasion, and resource management. You are largely defenseless against the deranged abominations that stalk the environments. Your primary tools are your wits, your ability to hide, and your trusty night-vision camcorder – indispensable for navigating the oppressive darkness and documenting the horrors you witness. The Triallists must complete a variety of objectives, often involving retrieving items, activating machinery, or reaching specific locations, all while avoiding grotesque enemies and deadly environmental hazards. The introduction of crafting allows for limited preparation, letting players create makeshift tools and items to aid their survival, such as bandages for healing or thrown distractions. Cooperation is key; players…
Game details
- Developer: Red Barrels
- Publisher: Red Barrels
- Release year: 2023
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
- Category: action
Our review
The Outlast Trials ramps up the horror with its cooperative focus while retaining the series' signature terrifying atmosphere. The sense of dread is palpable as you and your friends attempt to survive the gruesome experiments of the Murkoff Corporation. Its blend of stealth, puzzle-solving, and frantic escape sequences makes for exhilarating moments, though some players might find the mission structure a bit repetitive over extended play sessions. The progression system is well-paced, offering satisfying unlocks and improvements that keep you invested in the gruesome world. Graphically, the game is a standout, with detailed environments and gruesome character models that enhance the horror. It's a must-play for fans of survival horror and cooperative gameplay.
Pros
- Intense and terrifying atmosphere, Excellent cooperative gameplay, Rewarding progression system
- Unique setting and lore
Cons
- Limited inventory space, Can be repetitive in longer sessions, Requires frequent backtracking
- Steep learning curve for new players
FAQ
- Is The Outlast Trials a single-player or multiplayer game?
- The Outlast Trials was specifically developed for cooperative multiplayer with up to 4 players, but it can also be played in single-player. The experience is recommended to be played with friends due to its difficulty and emphasis on teamwork.
- Is The Outlast Trials considered a psychological horror or jump scare game?
- Like its predecessors in the series, The Outlast Trials combines elements of psychological horror with plenty of jump scares. It is known for its disturbing atmosphere and graphic visuals, alongside numerous sudden moments of fear.
- Does The Outlast Trials require a constant internet connection?
- Yes, The Outlast Trials requires a constant internet connection for both multiplayer and single-player modes.
- What is the main difference between The Outlast Trials and previous Outlast games?
- The main difference is the focus on cooperative play with up to three additional players, unlike previous games which were strictly single-player experiences. Additionally, it is set during the Cold War era and presents a different backstory.
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Last updated: 01/04/2026