Outland (2011)

Housemarque

Linux · Mac · PC (Microsoft Windows) · PlayStation 3 · Xbox 360

3.09 from 282 ratings

2396 members have it in their collection · 26 playing now · 1362 backlogged · 57 wish listed

How long? Main story 6h · with extras 9h (from 5 logged playthroughs)

An action platformer with a combat/interactivity system based on polarity, Outland focuses on a hero who can switch between light and dark forms, an ability he'll need to exploit in order to destroy monsters and avoid attacks. He'll take damage from opposite-colored bullets but will be impervious to those of the same polarity. He'll also only be able to control … Read more
An action platformer with a combat/interactivity system based on polarity, Outland focuses on a hero who can switch between light and dark forms, an ability he'll need to exploit in order to destroy monsters and avoid attacks. He'll take damage from opposite-colored bullets but will be impervious to those of the same polarity. He'll also only be able to control objects that match his polarity. By switching between forms, he will be able to solve platforming puzzles and crush enemies in this mysterious new land he finds himself in. Read less
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Release dates

  • Apr 27, 2011 (Worldwide) Xbox 360
  • Jun 02, 2011 (Europe) PlayStation 3
  • Jun 14, 2011 (North_America) PlayStation 3
  • Jun 14, 2011 (Worldwide) PlayStation 3
  • Sep 29, 2014 (North_America) Linux, Mac
  • Sep 29, 2014 (Worldwide) PC (Microsoft Windows)
  • Dec 22, 2014 (Worldwide) Mac

Related

Bundled in

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Rating distribution

5 stars
12
4 stars
75
3 stars
128
2 stars
59
1 star
8
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Community All Reviews Statuses

Krauzer

Review Krauzer 4/5 · Jul 22, 2025

This game is a striking blend of fast-paced platforming and Metroidvania-style exploration, wrapped in a bold, silhouette-heavy visual style. Its core mechanic, switching between light and dark energies to counter enemies and navigate bullet-hell patterns, keeps the gameplay dynamic and challenging. While the story is minimal and the checkpoint system can feel punishing at times, the smooth controls and unique …

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This game is a striking blend of fast-paced platforming and Metroidvania-style exploration, wrapped in a bold, silhouette-heavy visual style. Its core mechanic, switching between light and dark energies to counter enemies and navigate bullet-hell patterns, keeps the gameplay dynamic and challenging. While the story is minimal and the checkpoint system can feel punishing at times, the smooth controls and unique polarity-based combat make it a standout. It's a hidden gem that combines old-school design with modern flair, I particularly loved the platforming sections and also the boss fights, they are very unique and creative.

The boss encounters deserve special mention for how well they test the game’s core ideas. Each fight feels more like a carefully choreographed duel than a simple test of reflexes, demanding constant awareness of polarity, positioning, and timing. The screen often fills with hostile projectiles, but success comes from reading patterns and switching energies at just the right moment, creating a satisfying rhythm that rewards patience as much as skill.

Exploration is equally rewarding, as new abilities gradually open up previously unreachable areas, reinforcing the Metroidvania structure without overstaying its welcome. Backtracking rarely feels like a chore thanks to the tight movement and clear visual language, where color and contrast communicate danger and opportunity instantly. Combined with its atmospheric OST and understated worldbuilding, this title leaves a lasting impression as a focused, challenging experience that trusts the you to learn, adapt, and persevere.

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anarchistica

Review anarchistica 2/5 · Mar 19, 2019

Too aimless

Outland is an okay platformer with tight controls, pretty visuals and a colour-switching element that works nicely. Unfortunately, like so many of these metroidvania/open-world platform games it gives too little direction and involves way too much backtracking. After an hour i got a bit lost and left the map i was on. When i returned every enemy had respawned and …

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Outland is an okay platformer with tight controls, pretty visuals and a colour-switching element that works nicely. Unfortunately, like so many of these metroidvania/open-world platform games it gives too little direction and involves way too much backtracking. After an hour i got a bit lost and left the map i was on. When i returned every enemy had respawned and i had to backtrack through most of the map (you have to find a key to a door). This kind of aimless exploring works in 3D games but gets on my nerves in 2D. If i find the door before i find the key, just open up a portal when i pick up the key. Stop wasting my time.

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