(Image credit: Epic Games Publishing)
Out of Words immediately captures attention, moving from impressive to spectacular with each interaction, gradually unveiling its exceptional nature. Imagine the co-op puzzle-solving charm of It Takes Two combined with the intense focus of Limbo or Inside. Now picture it wrapped in a stunning stop-motion style that delivers a heartfelt coming-of-age love story.
Playing alongside a friend, you’ll step into the shoes of Kurt and Karla, two young individuals navigating the tumultuous seas of first love. In a striking metaphor, both characters lose their mouths, silencing their voices and thrusting them into a fantastical realm where emotions must be confronted and understood.
This handcrafted world is a visual marvel, constructed with traditional stop-motion techniques and brought to life through a bespoke photogrammetry process. Each landscape and character radiates charm, offering a tactile joy as you leap and explore whimsical terrains filled with life.
Directed by Johan Oettinger in collaboration with development studio Kong Orange, and under the banner of WiredFly and Epic Games Publishing, this title represents the culmination of a lifelong aspiration to unite gaming with stop-motion animation. Oettinger’s journey began in 2013, culminating when the project joined forces with Kong Orange and secured a publishing deal with Epic Games in 2022, granting the creative freedom and resources needed to bring the game to various platforms.
The passion of Oettinger and his team is palpable in every facet of Out of Words. Despite what might seem like an overly sweet premise, the narrative remains engaging and diffused through expert storytelling techniques.
The platforming aspect of the game emphasizes coordination over difficulty. Players will find themselves in scenarios where gravity can shift at the push of a button, requiring joint timing to traverse levels. According to game design lead Jeff Sparks, this approach is deliberate, aiming to make the game accessible and enjoyable for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.
Sparks explains the game’s accessible nature was honed through numerous iterations, constantly reassessing what makes a mechanic enjoyable and how it can evolve to provide a seamless experience for players.
Reflecting on design philosophy, Oettinger emphasizes, “I love simple games, but I love games where the design is taken very seriously.” His focus remains on ensuring that every element, from the intricate stop-motion animations to the immersive art and sound design, elevates the narrative and player engagement.
As the game progresses, it reveals deeper complexities reminiscent of Playdead’s titles. Early chapters offer a taste of the light-hearted adventure, but the narrative depth intensifies as players are introduced to darker overtones when Kurt and Karla face overwhelming emotions.
The adventure takes a transformative turn as you manipulate a monstrous form, combining elements of a grappling game where each player controls a hand, evoking the climactic experiences seen in Inside. Although this shift offers a more intense gameplay experience, playful elements persist, ensuring the narrative remains balanced and engaging.
With the promise of an 8-10 hour journey, filled with dynamic moments and exciting challenges, Out of Words is set to mesmerize. The best part? It’s an adventure likely to leave personal bonds intact—a refreshing change for co-op gaming enthusiasts eager to explore a beautifully crafted world together.
For those interested in similar gaming experiences, be sure to explore the best co-op games of all time.