Platformers are usually either hit or miss. Sometimes they can be the most engrossing games you can play, with precision and timing taking precedence over all else. Other times they can feel like an endless slog with unforgiving level design and difficult enemies. Outland is a strange mix of both, becoming a game you’ll either love to hate or hate to love.
Aesthetic seems to be the biggest part of Outland by far. The central tribal theme is pervasive throughout, and is the main explanation for all of your abilities. One of the abilities that defines this game is the ability to switch between light and dark. While it sounds like you’re traversing between worlds or get different abilities based on the form you take, this mechanic is actually nothing more than a Mighty Switch Force ripoff. That wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing if it wasn’t executed in the most boring way possible. Certain enemies can only be damaged if you switch to the opposite alignment, which is about as challenging as hitting a button and then mashing until they die. The puzzles that use this mechanic aren’t much more difficult than that, relying on waiting more than anything else. It’s a fun idea that doesn’t really evolve into anything more than a gimmick.
This isn’t to say that Outland is a terrible game, but rather an extremely average one. Without it’s heavy reliance on visuals, there would be nothing unique for it to offer. In fact it feels more like a grotesque Frankenstein monster, cobbled together parts from other, better platformers then given a nice suit to wear. While that can make a game that’s serviceable in its own right, Outland will never be as good as it’s peers. If average or aesthetic is your thing have at this game otherwise I suggest you steer clear.
Outland Trailer
http://youtu.be/LSJ4vL5GhlE