Similiar games
The Great Outdoors is a walking-based mobile game where progress inside the virtual world is directly tied to the number of steps taken in the real world. At the start, the player takes the role of an assistant to a miller in a rural settlement that has fallen into disrepair. Movement through the in-game map requires spending steps that are earned by walking or running in daily life. Each completed walk in reality provides new opportunities in the game: players can travel to different locations, interact with characters, gather items, and gradually unlock the story. The entire progression system is based on consistent physical activity, which means the more the player moves, the further they can advance.
Core gameplay and objectives
The central gameplay loop involves collecting steps through real-world movement and then deciding how to use them in the game. Steps can be spent to explore new areas, repair broken structures, trade with NPCs, and unlock paths to different regions. The game world is divided into various zones, each containing its own set of resources and challenges. The player begins with small tasks, such as fixing simple buildings or delivering items, but as they progress, the objectives become more complex, requiring resource management and careful planning. The story develops as the settlement grows, and new areas become available, offering both practical benefits and more narrative elements.
Key features
- Step-based travel and actions that depend on real-world walking or running
- Resource collection and trading for settlement development
- Unlockable routes and regions that expand the playable area
- Progression tied entirely to physical activity instead of time limits
- Free-to-play model with optional in-app purchases hidden from core gameplay
Player interaction and community aspect
The community around The Great Outdoors often discusses efficient step usage, the best order for unlocking areas, and strategies for gathering rare resources. Some players focus on fully restoring each location before moving forward, while others prefer unlocking as many areas as possible for wider access to resources. The game’s developer has stated that the in-app purchase system is non-intrusive and can be ignored completely, keeping the focus on the main mechanic of walking to progress. Over time, this has encouraged players to treat their real-life movement as part of the gameplay, turning regular daily routines into opportunities for exploration and development inside the game world.
