Outland

Outland is a platformer developed by Housemarque and published by Ubisoft available for download for XBLA and PSN. Trying to describe Outland is very difficult. The downloadable title combines 2D platforming, intense and challenging gameplay, and map exploration into something very fun. It's a beautiful and fun experience that will interest a lot of people.

When you first start Outland it is clear that its style is the first thing you'll notice. Displayed in a vivid array of colors Outland makes the player feel like he/she is playing within a painting. The atmosphere is gorgeous and sucks the play right in. Combined with an excellent soundtrack and great sound effects that complements the beauty of the game you have a game with a perfect presentation right from the start.

The story of Outland isn't anything new or engaging. It's about two mystical sisters that each control light and dark powers that are represented in red and blue that seek to destroy the world. It's a basic story that doesn't add to Outland's appeal but doesn't hurt it either. There are occasional poems that are well-written but can be ignored without hurting the game.

As pretty as Outland is, it wouldn't be a good game if it wasn't fun to play. Both combat and platforming is smooth, however demands a lot from the player. Your character is imbued with both red and blue powers that the player must use to defeat fantastic bosses, collect items, and overcome terrain. Taking from games like Ikaruga players will have to change from red to blue in an elaborate and effective fashion to beat the game. Outland also emphasizes on collecting items and exploring areas that will feel familiar to those who played Super Metroid.

 

In addition to the single player campaign there is arcade mode and cooperative play. Arcade mode allows players to run through certain areas to gain high scores and net fast time completions on an online leaderboard. Co-op allows two players to play through the campaign or a variety of challenge rooms.

The only complaint I had with the game is the platfoming which can be vexing due to the requirement to change colors mid jump before touching the platform. Sometimes the detection can be off and cause the player to fall. Outland is a fun and beautiful game that looks incredible and plays great. If you’re looking for a new downloadable title you should put this on the top of your list.

Adam Siddiqui, NoobFeed
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