bsunter on Nostr: I just finished Outer Wilds! One of the best games I've played in a while. Here's my ...
I just finished Outer Wilds! One of the best games I've played in a while. Here's my review:
What's it about?
It's about exploring a small solar system in your spaceship while trying to solve a mystery. I don't want to give spoilers since figuring things out yourself is a huge part of what makes it special.
Who would like it?
If you enjoy puzzle-solving, space exploration, and games that trust you to figure things out on your own, you'll probably love this.
What is the gameplay like?
The core mechanic is flying your spaceship using realistic zero-gravity physics - "an object in motion stays in motion," so you need to think way ahead about slowing down before reaching planets. Just navigating properly, landing safely, and not losing your ship are engaging challenges. It's like playing lunar lander but in a full 3D space environment.
Does one specific element of the game stand out to you?
The completely nonlinear design really sets it apart. Progress comes from solving puzzles, reading texts, and understanding how various mechanics work. Something you discover early on one planet might be crucial for solving a puzzle on another planet hours later. These "eureka moments" when everything clicks together are incredibly satisfying, especially since solutions often work together in surprising ways.
What elements did you like?
I love how it handles being an open world. Unlike many games that feel empty and sparse (like the new Halo and Zelda's vast fields), Outer Wilds strikes a perfect balance. It gives you complete freedom but keeps every planet densely packed with unique and interesting things to discover. Another great touch is all the Easter eggs and creative achievements - there are tons of unexpected things that can happen while exploring.
What elements did you dislike?
My only real frustration came about 30 hours in when I got stuck and had to check a guide. Some of the steps to finish the game felt pretty non-obvious.
How does the game compare to similar games?
Unlike typical open world games that can get boring with too much empty space, Outer Wilds keeps things focused and meaningful. Every planet feels carefully crafted with creative stuff going on. It manages to deliver both exploration freedom and purposeful design in a way I haven't seen before.
What's it about?
It's about exploring a small solar system in your spaceship while trying to solve a mystery. I don't want to give spoilers since figuring things out yourself is a huge part of what makes it special.
Who would like it?
If you enjoy puzzle-solving, space exploration, and games that trust you to figure things out on your own, you'll probably love this.
What is the gameplay like?
The core mechanic is flying your spaceship using realistic zero-gravity physics - "an object in motion stays in motion," so you need to think way ahead about slowing down before reaching planets. Just navigating properly, landing safely, and not losing your ship are engaging challenges. It's like playing lunar lander but in a full 3D space environment.
Does one specific element of the game stand out to you?
The completely nonlinear design really sets it apart. Progress comes from solving puzzles, reading texts, and understanding how various mechanics work. Something you discover early on one planet might be crucial for solving a puzzle on another planet hours later. These "eureka moments" when everything clicks together are incredibly satisfying, especially since solutions often work together in surprising ways.
What elements did you like?
I love how it handles being an open world. Unlike many games that feel empty and sparse (like the new Halo and Zelda's vast fields), Outer Wilds strikes a perfect balance. It gives you complete freedom but keeps every planet densely packed with unique and interesting things to discover. Another great touch is all the Easter eggs and creative achievements - there are tons of unexpected things that can happen while exploring.
What elements did you dislike?
My only real frustration came about 30 hours in when I got stuck and had to check a guide. Some of the steps to finish the game felt pretty non-obvious.
How does the game compare to similar games?
Unlike typical open world games that can get boring with too much empty space, Outer Wilds keeps things focused and meaningful. Every planet feels carefully crafted with creative stuff going on. It manages to deliver both exploration freedom and purposeful design in a way I haven't seen before.