Outbuddies DX is a 2D action Metroidvania platformer developed by a single creator and available on Xbox One and Xbox Series consoles. Players control maritime archaeologist Nikolay Bernstein after a shipwreck leaves him deep beneath the South Atlantic Ocean inside the sunken fortress of Bahlam. The story unfolds through exploration of this Lovecraftian setting tied to ancient Old Gods, with the protagonist linked to a robotic Buddy unit that assists in navigation and interaction with the environment.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on non-linear exploration across five distinct areas filled with environmental hazards, puzzles, and enemies. Movement begins with solid fundamentals like running, jumping, swimming, crouching, and dodging, then expands through collected upgrades such as new weapons, suit enhancements, and protocols that improve the Buddy unit's capabilities. These tools allow selective use in combat and puzzle solving, with gear balanced to match specific challenges rather than providing overwhelming power.
Progression involves rescuing captured Wozan, a tribe of mining creatures who were enslaved long ago and now hide in secret colonies or remain under hostile control. The Buddy unit procedurally maps surroundings and offers abilities including scanning for secrets, hacking mechanisms, and telekinesis to manipulate objects. Switching control to the Buddy at any time supports solo play, while the pixel art style and original soundtrack by OGRE music contribute to the atmospheric underwater ruins.
Boss encounters require mastery of movement and weaponry, often demanding precise timing and strategy against creative designs. The game emphasizes freedom from the outset, with backtracking and ability gating typical of the Metroidvania genre, though some players note the need for careful map checking due to the scale of the interconnected spaces.
Game Modes
Outbuddies DX supports single-player campaigns focused on solo exploration and progression through Bahlam. An optional local co-op mode allows a second player to take direct control of the Buddy unit, handling its mapping, scanning, and manipulation tools while the first player manages Nikolay. This setup adds a layer of teamwork for shared discovery without altering the fundamental single-player structure.
No additional competitive or online modes exist. The experience remains centered on the Metroidvania loop of exploration, combat, and upgrades, with co-op serving as a quality-of-life option rather than a separate campaign variant.
Story and World
The narrative follows Nikolay's search for answers about his situation amid the remnants of an ancient civilization ruled by the Old Gods. Interactions with the Wozan provide context about their history of enslavement and ongoing struggles against hostile creatures that have taken over parts of the city. The setting blends underwater ruins with fantasy elements, encouraging players to uncover lore through environmental details and rescued characters rather than extensive cutscenes.
Five unique areas present varied hazards and layouts, from shadowed caverns to more open sections, all tied together by the central fortress. The Buddy unit's presence adds a companion dynamic that influences both puzzle solutions and the sense of isolation in the depths.
Is It Worth Playing?
Outbuddies DX appeals most to players who enjoy challenging Metroidvania titles with emphasis on exploration, precise platforming, and creative boss fights. The improved controls and quality-of-life features in the DX version make the experience more accessible than earlier iterations, though the difficulty and occasional map confusion can frustrate those seeking smoother progression. Local co-op provides a way to share the adventure, particularly useful for navigating complex sections with the Buddy unit.
Reception highlights strong atmosphere, music, and rewarding exploration for dedicated fans, while noting clunky elements in controls and navigation as drawbacks. The game offers a complete single-player journey with optional co-op on Xbox platforms, suiting those comfortable with retro-inspired action platformers that demand patience and experimentation. If precise movement and backtracking align with your preferences, it delivers a distinctive take on the genre.
