Colin Cassidy
Outta Hand Review: A Short, Sweet, and Sublime VR Platforming Adventure
Outta Hand, developed by Capricia Productions, is the latest VR platforming game to hit the Oculus Quest platform. Offering a charming and polished campaign that combines immersive gameplay with a delightful story, Outta Hand is a must-play for fans of the genre.
The game puts players in the role of a ‘hand person,’ a small blue creature with long arms and wings. The unique movement system requires players to propel themselves using their arms and hands, creating a running and galloping-like action. The absence of artificial movement adds to the immersive experience, making it a standout feature of Outta Hand.
The campaign begins with the player trapped in a glass container within the facility of the evil Dr. Vendeldoom. As the story unfolds, players must escape the facility, overcoming various challenges and boss battles along the way. The narrative takes a back seat, allowing the frenetic platforming action to drive the gameplay forward.
A Mechanical Leap of Faith
Outta Hand builds upon the motion gesture-based movement system popularized by games like Gorilla Tag and No More Rainbows. The connection between physical action and in-game movement reduces the risk of motion sickness and enhances the sense of immersion. Players will find themselves jumping, propelling, and flinging through the game’s levels with ease.
Capricia Productions has refined the movement system in Outta Hand, offering a more stretchy and versatile experience. The game introduces new mechanics, including wings that provide a slight boost in mid-air and fists that can be used for combat or platforming purposes. The result is a movement system that feels unique and exhilarating.
Handfuls of Variety
Outta Hand’s campaign is filled with a wide variety of platforming and combat challenges. Players will navigate through moving platforms, breakable platforms, and wall-jumping obstacle courses, among others. The game gradually ramps up the difficulty, introducing new obstacles and combinations that require the player to strategically use their jumps, fists, and wings.
Despite the game’s fast-paced energy, the level design ensures there are multiple ways to approach and complete each section. This flexibility allows for creative problem-solving and adds depth to the gameplay experience.
While the combat may not offer significant challenges, it serves as a light and enjoyable addition to the overall experience. The boss fights are particularly memorable, each requiring unique strategies and presenting new gameplay mechanics.
A Thrilling Adventure with Beautiful Environments
Outta Hand impresses with its beautiful visuals and quirky humor. The game takes inspiration from classics like Crash Bandicoot, resulting in charming character designs and visually appealing environments. The creative level design and attention to detail make every leap and obstacle a joy to experience.
The campaign’s length is just right, offering enough challenge and variety without overstaying its welcome. For those craving more, there is an endless mode with leaderboard support, as well as a zen mode for relaxed exploration. The developer has also hinted at post-launch content updates, adding to the game’s replayability.
In terms of performance, Outta Hand runs near flawlessly on the Oculus Quest Pro, with minor hitches that do not significantly impact gameplay. The game also offers comfort options, such as vignette and snap/smooth turning, to cater to individual player preferences.
Outta Hand Review – Final Verdict
Outta Hand is a delightful VR platforming adventure that ticks all the right boxes. With its polished gameplay, immersive movement system, and captivating levels, the game offers a captivating experience from start to finish. The combination of narrative, witty dialogue, and stunning visuals make it a standout title on the Oculus Quest platform.
For fans of the genre, Outta Hand is a must-play this fall. With its short but sweet campaign and additional gameplay modes, it offers hours of fun and replayability. Capricia Productions has created a gem that showcases the strengths of VR platforming and leaves players eagerly anticipating future updates and content.
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