Building System
The building system in Outbound is a grid-based modular construction system that lets players transform an empty camper van into a personalized mobile home. Players place walls, furniture, workstations, and decorations inside the van, on the exterior, and on the rooftop, with all structures folding into compact boxes for travel.
Overview
The building system lets players transform the camper van from an empty shell into a personalized mobile home. The system is fully modular: players place, rotate, and connect building components on a grid that covers the van's interior cabin, exterior walls, and rooftop. Building is one of the game's primary creative outlets alongside crafting and exploration.
Interior
The van's interior provides a protected workspace and living area. Functional items include the Crafting Table (built into the back of the van), stoves, storage containers, and garden beds. Decorative items include curtains, candles, rugs, shelving, picture frames, and potted plants. A well-organized interior makes daily routines smoother, since players access workstations frequently.
Exterior and rooftop
The roof is prime real estate. Energy modules like solar panels and wind turbines are typically mounted on the roof for optimal exposure. Players can also build upward, adding platforms and structures to expand usable space. Multi-level builds are possible, though solar panels need unobstructed sky above them.
Fold-into-boxes mechanic
When the player enters driving mode, all built structures fold into compact boxes attached to the van's frame. When the van parks, the boxes unfold back into their full layouts. This is automatic and instant. Players never have to dismantle their base to travel. The fold-into-boxes mechanic is the building system's signature innovation.
Notable modules
Greenhouse An enclosed growing space for plants, protecting crops during travel
Terrace An open platform for enjoying views from atop the van
Modular Sofas A Kickstarter stretch goal. Mix-and-match sofa pieces that can be arranged in different configurations
Garden Beds For growing crops directly on or around the van
Customization
Exterior paint changes the van's color scheme. Interior decorations include curtains, candles, furniture, and various ornaments. Decorative lighting illuminates automatically at night, adding ambiance to the campsite. In multiplayer, all players share the van and can build collaboratively with changes visible in real time.