The studio behind indie adventure title Outbound has issued a public apology after receiving criticism for encouraging a player to remove a negative Steam review.
Developed by Square Glade Games, Outbound is a relaxed exploration and survival experience centered around transforming a basic camper van into a mobile home. Players gather resources, customize interiors, and use technology systems to survive and travel across an open-world environment.
The game launched on Steam on May 11 with a 10% off introductory offer to end on 25 May. The gameplay is different, but fans of this game might also be interested with our review on Tiny Bookshop for a similar cozy, van vibe. While the launch generated interest among fans of cozy simulation games, it also became the focus of controversy.
The situation began after a Steam user posted a critical review describing the gameplay systems as lacking depth and arguing that the title did not justify its price. In response, the developer acknowledged the criticism and informed the player they could request a refund through Steam support. However, the studio also suggested that, if a refund was granted, the reviewer consider updating or removing the negative review.
Screenshots of the exchange were later circulated online, including discussions across Reddit and gaming communities, drawing criticism from players who argued that developers should not pressure users into altering honest feedback. Many viewed the request as an attempt to improve the game’s review score rather than address the concerns being raised.
The backlash appeared to have an unintended effect on the game’s public reception. Although Outbound still maintains a “Mostly Positive” rating on Steam overall, several newer negative reviews reportedly referenced the controversy itself, with some players citing the developer’s response as part of the reason for their low ratings.
Following the growing criticism, Square Glade Games publicly addressed the issue and apologized for how it handled communication with players after launch.
In a statement shared on Steam, the studio admitted that the launch period had been emotionally overwhelming and acknowledged that its replies to reviewers were inappropriate. The developers explained that the pressure surrounding release day contributed to poor judgment in how they interacted with community feedback.
The studio also clarified that it would no longer ask users to change or remove negative reviews and confirmed that previous comments requesting such actions had been deleted.
Square Glade Games added that it respects honest criticism and sees player feedback as an important part of improving the game moving forward. The team said it is continuing to work on reported issues while also trying to rebuild trust with the community.
Respect each other, speak your mind, and focus on ideas, not individuals.