Outbound

Outbound is a cozy open-world exploration and simulation game developed and published by Square Glade Games. Set in a utopian near future, the game centres on transforming an empty camper van into a fully functioning home on wheels. Players explore a colourful world at their own pace, gathering materials, crafting tools, and gradually expanding their vehicle into a personalised living space. The experience is designed to be flexible, allowing for both relaxed solo play and cooperative gameplay with up to four players.

At its core, Outbound combines exploration with base building. Players travel through diverse biomes, discovering landmarks, resources, and environmental challenges. The camper van serves as both transport and home, and can be expanded using a modular building system. Structures, furniture, and decorative elements can be placed in and on the vehicle, allowing players to shape both its function and appearance. Progression is tied to collecting materials and advancing technology, which unlocks new crafting options and improvements.

A central mechanic in Outbound is energy management. The player’s vehicle is powered by renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and water. Efficient use of these systems is necessary to maintain and expand the mobile base. Crafting systems allow players to build workstations and tools using natural resources, which can then be refined into more advanced materials. This progression encourages experimentation and adaptation as players encounter new environments.

The game also includes systems focused on sustainability and self-sufficiency. Players can grow plants and mushrooms in onboard gardens, using them as food or ingredients for cooking. Maintaining resources and health becomes part of the broader gameplay loop while travelling. In addition, players can adopt and train a canine companion, which can assist with tasks such as fetching items and carrying supplies during exploration.

Outbound supports both single-player and online cooperative play. Players can embark on shared journeys across its open world, building and exploring together. Development of the game began in 2023, with an alpha released in April 2025 and a beta later that year introducing additional biomes and features. The full release is scheduled for 14 May 2026 across PC and multiple console platforms, with the game positioned as a relaxed, creative experience focused on exploration, building, and cooperative play.