Introduction to Look Outside

In the face of an inexplicable disaster, what kind of person would you be? Would you choose to help your distressed neighbors and open your home to strangers, or would you rather go it alone, despite the overwhelming odds against you? Perhaps a more mundane question, but one that the game Look Outside by Francis Coulombe poses, is whether you would still maintain your daily habits, such as brushing your teeth.

The Horror of Look Outside

The horror in Look Outside is all-encompassing, embracing both the cosmic element of an incomprehensible happening outside the walls of your apartment building and the body horror of those who have looked or been outside, transforming in unimaginable ways. As you navigate the game, the unease also stems from introspection, making you question the choices you’ve made and the person you’ve become to survive.

Gameplay and Characters

Your character, Sam, wakes up with a strong urge to look outside after a strange dream. You’re immediately presented with choices that will haunt you throughout the game. You meet Sybil, a mysterious next-door neighbor who communicates through the wall, advising you to wait out the catastrophe. As you scavenge for resources, you’ll encounter other neighbors, some of whom seem to know more about the phenomena than they let on. The game features turn-based interactions, allowing you to evaluate encounters, but the line between enemies and allies is often blurred.

Survival and Allies

Surviving alone can be difficult, but forming alliances can tip the scales in your favor. The game allows you to have up to three allies, making combat more manageable. However, trusting others comes with its own set of challenges, as you may find yourself at odds with your allies or struggling with the moral implications of your decisions.

Art and Soundtrack

The pixel art style brings the creature designs to life in a disgustingly beautiful way, balancing horror and absurdity. The soundtrack, composed by Eric Shumaker, perfectly complements the environment, evoking every emotion. The game’s ability to blend dread with humor makes for a powerful experience.

Conclusion and Endings

Look Outside builds up to a cosmic gut-punch of an ending, one that completely changes your perspective on the game. With multiple endings, the game offers a high level of replayability. Even after completing the game, you’ll find yourself pondering the secrets and conclusions, making Look Outside one of the best cosmic horror games available.

Availability and Recommendation

Currently available on Steam, Look Outside is a must-play for fans of cosmic horror. With its unique approach to survival horror, engaging gameplay, and impactful story, it’s an experience that will leave you shaken. The hope is that it will soon be available on other platforms, allowing more players to discover this masterpiece.