You clicked on this because you, just like me, are a massive fan of the groundbreaking game – Outer Wilds, right? If the concept of exploration and character discovery encapsulated in this game has left you yearning for more, you’re in for a treat! Brace yourself as we’re about to embark on an interstellar journey through the cosmos of eight other games that share the same unique gameplay mechanics as Outer Wilds.
Tighten your seatbelts as we set off to discover galaxies sculpted with rich action-adventure elements, all lying dormant on multiple platforms, ready to satiate your thirst for thrill and exploration.
An Overview of Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds is a unique game that falls into the Action-Adventure genre with a marvelous incorporation of space exploration elements. Developed by Mobius Digital and published by Annapurna Interactive, Outer Wilds stands out due to a distinctive feature that is unknown in the gaming world today. And that is the concept of unfettered exploration.
Outer Wilds propels you into a world of adventure set in a dying universe and allows you the freedom to explore and solve the enigmatic puzzles that lie therein. With no guided path, your adventure is unique to you, and this freedom is part of the magic that makes Outer Wilds such a fascinating game journey.
Developers and Publishers of Outer Wilds
The brilliant minds responsible for creating the Outer Wilds are found within the team at Mobius Digital. They are an independent game studio based in Los Angeles, California, committed to producing innovative and player-centered games.
The publishers who helped make Outer Wilds possible are Annapurna Interactive, renowned for supporting groundbreaking games that offer unique interactive experiences.
Gameplay Mechanics of Outer Wilds
The gameplay mechanics of Outer Wilds revolve primarily around exploration. Once you have learned the basics of movement and mechanics in the spaceship, you are left alone to traverse through different planets and uncover the enveloping mysteries of the game.
Although challenging, every clue you gather and every discovery you make adds to your understanding of the game, rewarding your curiosity!
Popularity and Reception of Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds made a notable mark in the gaming industry and won the hearts of many players for its incredibly engaging gameplay. It has been especially praised for its focus on exploration and discovery, a breath of fresh air in an era of hand-holding game designs.
Outer Wilds is that gem in the treasure chest reminding players of the satisfaction of solving a challenging puzzle.
1. No Man’s Sky
Release Date and Developer
No Man’s Sky was released on August 9, 2016, by the passionate developers at Hello Games.
Genre and Platforms
The genre of this game involves Action-Adventure, Survival, and Exploration. It is available on platforms such as PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, and Microsoft Windows.
Similarities to Outer Wilds
Like Outer Wilds, No Man’s Sky offers a universe to explore. It encourages players to explore different planets and unravel the mysteries that lie within.
2. The Long Journey Home
Release Date and Developer
The Long Journey Home was released on May 30, 2017, and developed by Daedalic Studio West.
Genre and Platforms
This title blends Space Exploration and Rogue-like genres and is available on Windows PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One platforms.
Similarities to Outer Wilds
The Long Journey Home takes explorative play to a new level, quite similar to Outer Wilds, as it sets you adrift in the vast universe to dive into an adventure unique for every player.
3. Obduction
Release Date and Developer
Obduction was released on August 24, 2016, and developed by Cyan Worlds.
Genre and Platforms
Obduction belongs to the Adventure, Indie, and Puzzle genres. You can enjoy this game on Windows PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One platforms.
Similarities to Outer Wilds
Like Outer Wilds, Obduction provides its players with an enigmatic world and various puzzles to solve, making exploration a key gameplay component.
4. Subnautica
Release Date and Developer
Subnautica was released on December 16, 2014, and developed by Unknown Worlds Entertainment.
Genre and Platforms
Belonging to the Adventure, Survival, and Exploration genres, Subnautica can be played on platforms including Windows PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
Similarities to Outer Wilds
Subnautica, like Outer Wilds, puts you in an unknown world and encourages you to explore your surroundings and reveal hidden secrets.
5. Soma
Release Date and Developer
Soma, created by Frictional Games, was released on September 22, 2015.
Genre and Platforms
Soma is a member of the Survival Horror and Adventure genres. It is available on Windows PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Linux platforms.
Similarities to Outer Wilds
Soma and Outer Wilds share a unique feature – they throw players into unfamiliar territories and foster a sense of curiosity essential for exploration and progress.
6. The Witness
Release Date and Developer
The Witness was released on January 26, 2016, and developed by Thekla, Inc.
Genre and Platforms
Featuring in the Puzzle and Adventure genres, The Witness can be played on platforms including Windows PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, and Mac.
Similarities to Outer Wilds
Just like Outer Wilds, The Witness offers a mysterious world full of challenging puzzles that stimulate exploration.
7. Firewatch
Release Date and Developer
Firewatch was released on February 9, 2016, and is developed by Campo Santo.
Genre and Platforms
Belonging to the Adventure, Mystery, and Exploration genres, Firewatch can be played on platforms including Windows PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Linux, and Nintendo Switch.
Similarities to Outer Wilds
Firewatch shares the dare-to-discover ethos with Outer Wilds, encouraging players to explore the unknown intricacies of its world.
8. Astroneer
Release Date and Developer
Astroneer was released on February 6, 2019, by System Era Softworks.
Genre and Platforms
Taking a place in the Adventure, Survival, and Exploration genres, Astroneer is available on Windows PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch platforms.
Similarities to Outer Wilds
Much like Outer Wilds, Astroneer presents an open world waiting to be explored, pushing players to uncover and learn from the environment around them.
