Moving Out

Lore & Background

The idea for Moving Out originated from developer Jan Rigerl helping a friend move, becoming fascinated with the strategies involved in moving objects around tight spaces. As the project grew, Rigerl teamed up with Ashley Ringrose, CEO of SMG Studio, who had previously collaborated with him. SMG's earlier game Death Squared informed development, with lessons including focusing on a strong visual identity, a fun name, and relatable characters. Upon announcement, comparisons to Overcooked emerged; Ringrose noted he had not played Overcooked before the prototype but accepted the comparison as a shorthand reference, while emphasizing differences such as Moving Out's more focused single-player experience.

Reader's Guide

Moving Out received generally positive reviews, with most reviewers commending its multiplayer gameplay. Comparisons to Overcooked were common. The game's Assist Mode allowed players to reduce difficulty by adding time, removing obstacles, or skipping levels. Downloadable content expanded the experience: the Employees of the Month Pack added four characters, while the Movers in Paradise expansion introduced 14 tropical levels, new items, and mechanics like cranks and jetpacks. A free update added a reverse game mode for 12 levels, requiring players to unload items from a truck into appropriate locations, along with new costumes and dance moves. Reviewers of the expansion agreed that fans of the main game would enjoy it, praising its low price but noting its relatively short length.

Did You Know?

• The game was inspired by developer Jan Rigerl helping a friend move.
• Moving Out was released on Amazon Luna on January 28, 2021.
• The Movers in Paradise DLC added mechanics such as cranks, jetpacks, fans, breakable walls, and rafts.
• A free update introduced a reverse game mode where players remove items from a truck and place them in appropriate locations.