The new, crazy co-op game Moving Out releases next month, and Team17 launched a demo to help those interested get a feel for the game. PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch players can all test out their skills as a mover in the latest game from the developers of the chaotic Overcooked games. Based on the demo, it's clear this new game is just as fun, but in a totally new form.
The objective is simple: move furniture onto a moving truck as quickly as possible. Getting the furniture to the truck, however, may require some creative thinking and help from friends. Couches and beds for example, require two people to haul effectively. Items can also be thrown, which can be necessary in certain situations. There are also obstacles to deal with and other challenges that may require creative solutions.
Like Overcooked, Moving Out is a chaotic and sometimes frustrating game full of fun but wacky scenarios you and your friends will have to deal with. Sometimes, there'll be an obstacle that requires you to throw an item. Other times, you'll find the truck is almost completely full, and you'll have to find a way to get that last thing inside.
Then, there are the challenges that come with teamwork. With two person items, there is a "heave-ho" method to throwing where furniture is swung back and forth. It requires players to be in-sync with one another and have the timing to let go at the peak of a swing. It can be pretty handy. After all, why should you waste time fighting with a small front door when you and a friend can toss the couch through a wide window?
And don’t worry, there are plenty of things to break besides windows. Some items are breakable because they’re fragile or just because they’re in the way. You’ll want to be careful with the fragile items since if they break, you’ll need to get them again, and some levels can be tricky.
The demo showcases four levels, giving players a good an idea of what to expect from the full game. The first is a training area that teaches you the game’s mechanics. Completing it makes you a certified F.A.R.T (Furniture Arrangement and Relocation Technician). The next level is a small, simple house, and the third and fourth are where players truly get a sense of the chaos the game entails.
In these levels, there are ghosts, which will try to hinder players. They can be thwarted with a slap, tricky doorways, and even some platforming. Players can jump, which makes it a bit easier, but some furniture is heavy, and you might not make it while hauling a TV. In these situations, players must work together to figure out how to get different items through these areas. There are also pitfalls, which require maneuvering and cooperation to prevent one or both players from ending up in a ditch under a table. Each level also has a timer. There are gold, silver, and bronze times for completing levels, but you can run out of time and lose as well.
Once players have mastered the art of getting furniture into a truck, there are additional objectives to try for. Some of the ones included in the demo include breaking all the windows, taking plastic flamingos with you, and playing a little Frogger. Each adds a bit of extra challenge after completing levels and increases the game's replay value.
Moving Out features some inclusive options as well. There is some comedic dialogue and subtitles that come with a dyslexic-friendly toggle that changes the font to one that is easier to read, as well as the option to make the text larger. The character selection screen, on top of featuring a variety of quirky and fun options like in Overcooked, allows players to customize their character to be in a wheelchair.
Moving Out's demo shows off entertaining gameplay that promises of chaos, but with a hint of method to the madness -- that is, if you and your friends can cooperate.