How many people can play The Outlast Trials together?

The Outlast Trials represents a significant step forward for the popular horror franchise. Not only does it transport the action to a brand-new setting–a research center during the height of the Cold War–but it also builds on the mechanics of the series, most notably with the introduction of co-operative gameplay options. But just how many people can play The Outlast Trials together at one time? Read on for full intel on that and more.

How many test subjects can undergo The Outlast Trials together?

As confirmed by the game’s official Steam page, co-op play for teams of 2, 3, or 4 players is supported in The Outlast Trials. This gives you a nice range of options to work with, and accommodates playgroups of varying sizes, though it is worth noting that the game currently only supports online co-op and not local. This option may be added later, but for now it’s online-only.

Image via Red Barrels

While co-operative play is undoubtedly an exciting option, and one that many players will be sure to take advantage of, Red Barrels is keen to point out that playing in co-op won’t be necessary to enjoy the game. On the game’s Steam page, they note: “Co-op is never forced when it comes to mandatory objectives but working together can be highly beneficial. Whatever the number of players in your party, it’s about surviving and getting out.”

However many friends you bring along to The Outlast Trials, your ultimate goal will remain the same: to survive the sadistic trials imposed by the Murkoff Corporation, and in doing so earn your freedom. The game provides you with various tools to help you survive these trials, which serve as self-contained slices of horror gameplay; a welcome structural change to the established Outlast format.

The Outlast Trials is available now via Steam Early Access.