Moving Out: Chaos, Co-op, and Cartons

Moving Out is a physics-based simulation title developed by SMG Studio's Melbourne branch in collaboration with Stockholm-based Devm Games, and published by Team17. Released on April 28, 2020, this action-packed indie experience is available on PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and macOS. The title holds a Metacritic score of 77.00. Players assume the role of a Furniture Arrangement & Relocation Technician (F.A.R.T.) for the Smooth Move company, tasked with clearing homes and loading moving vans within strict time limits.

Gameplay Mechanics and Modes

The core loop involves clearing rooms of furniture and debris and transporting them to a waiting van. The game features over 50 levels that challenge players to manage inventory space and navigate increasingly complex environments. Controls are intuitive, utilizing analog sticks for movement and shoulder buttons for grabbing and throwing objects. While lighter items can be tossed, larger furniture like sofas and beds often requires cooperative effort from multiple players. The game dynamically adjusts its experience based on the number of players, welcoming participants of all ages and skill levels.

Moving Out supports both solo play as an independent contractor and multiplayer sessions for up to four players. The game offers local and online co-op options, allowing friends to team up from the same couch or across distances. Additionally, a party mode enables competition for the highest scores locally or against the community. Each level presents specific goals and time limits, awarding Bronze, Silver, or Gold medals based on performance. Beyond the main objective, bonus missions reveal themselves upon completion, offering challenges such as finishing without breaking windows. Completing these bonuses earns tokens redeemable in the arcade for extra content.

Story, Setting, and Aesthetic

The narrative follows new recruits undergoing orientation at the Smooth Move company. To become certified F.A.R.T.s, employees must complete a series of instructional lessons guided by narrator Mick "RicePirate" Lauer. The game is steeped in an irreverent '80s aesthetic, featuring a retro soundtrack and visual style reminiscent of vintage training videos.

Players traverse the town of Packmore and tackle jobs at diverse locations. The levels range from standard homes to fantastical settings like haunted houses, outer space, and the zoo. The game is packed with pop culture references, including homages to Seinfeld's apartment and Frogger, alongside cameo appearances and plot twists that add humor to the moving simulation.

Notable Features

  • Variety of Challenges: Over 50 levels spanning arcade, story, and versus modes.
  • Cooperative Physics: Dynamic object handling requires coordination, as some items break down into pieces or require two people to move.
  • Replay Value: Multiple medal tiers and bonus missions encourage repeated playthroughs.
  • Accessible Co-op: Dynamic difficulty scaling ensures the game remains fun regardless of player count.

Who It Appeals To

Moving Out is ideal for players seeking a lighthearted, accessible co-op experience. It appeals to fans of casual indie games and those who enjoyed titles like Overcooked, though it offers a more streamlined and relaxed approach compared to high-stress kitchen simulations. The game is well-suited for families and groups of friends looking for laidback fun, as well as solo players who enjoy puzzle-solving and physics challenges. Its colorful world, humorous tone, and flexible multiplayer options make it a strong choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the chaos of moving without the real-life stress.