Overview
Outbound uses a grid-based inventory system split between the player's backpack and the camper van's storage compartments. Managing inventory space is a constant part of gameplay: players gather resources on foot, carry them back to the van, and store or process them at crafting stations. The system is designed to feel manageable rather than punishing, fitting the game's cozy survival philosophy.
Backpack
The backpack is the player's personal inventory while exploring on foot. It has a limited number of grid slots. Items like download vouchers and bottle caps occupy the same backpack space as resources, so managing what you carry is important when heading out to explore.
Encumbrance
When the backpack exceeds its capacity limit, the player becomes encumbered. The penalty is mild: encumbrance disables sprinting but does not prevent movement entirely. Players can still walk at normal speed while overloaded. This design keeps the game relaxed; you will never be stranded because your backpack is full. You just move a bit slower on the way back to the van.
Van Storage
The van's trunk and interior provide additional storage space. Players can offload items from their backpack into the van's storage module by accessing the back of the vehicle. The storage interface lets you sort and organize items quickly. As you progress through the technology tree and unlock building upgrades, you can add larger storage containers to the van's interior, including rooftop racks for exterior storage.
Storage Upgrades
Upgrade | Description |
|---|---|
Base Trunk | Starting storage space in the van's rear compartment |
Medium Storage Upgrade | Expanded trunk capacity via technology tree blueprint |
Rooftop Racks | Exterior storage attached to the van's roof |
Interior Shelves | Decoration and item slots inside the van (added in alpha v0.5.6) |
Vehicle weight capacity was increased from 12 to 20 in alpha patch v0.5.6, and further weight upgrades became available through the researcher workstation. The van's camper mode creates a pop-up second floor that opens up even more space for storage, garden beds, and workstations.
Dog Companion as Extra Storage
The dog companion can carry items and fetch resources, acting as a mobile extension of the player's inventory. Commanding the dog to return items to the van saves trips on foot. This is especially useful in multiplayer where each player's dog can shuttle resources back to camp while the group continues exploring.
Tips
Offload resources to the van frequently to keep backpack space free for new finds.
Prioritize storage upgrades early in the technology tree to reduce back-and-forth trips.
Use the dog companion to carry overflow items when exploring far from the van.
Download vouchers and bottle caps take up space; spend them at signal towers and vending machines before they pile up.