How to Get Past the Axe Lady Encounter in Outlast 2
When you first start out in Outlast 2 you’re all alone during the first half an hour or so. There are some creepy surroundings and the sound design will keep the hairs on the back of your neck standing tall. But, eventually, you’ll run into someone who will actually interact with you… and kill you very quickly. The only way to avoid death is to avoid the person, who is a screaming lady with an impossibly large pick-axe, since you have no way of fighting in Outlast 2. You’ll need to use your wits, and a bit of silence, to get around her.
You’ll encounter the axe lady after coming out from underground the first time, where you discovered the pit of bodies with the cross skylight. There will be a barn, with a truck and a house just beyond it. You’ll know you’re in the right place because you’ll hear the woman reciting verses from her “bible.” During this time you’ll want to approach the truck, making sure to stay in line of sight of the house to attract her outside. The music will change and she’ll scream. When this happens, run to the other side of the truck, near the rocks and just wait there. She’ll keep moving past you and the music, as well as the sound of her breathing and talking, will fade away.
Get up and move on, you can check the house for a letter, then proceed to the large gate. You’ll hear a scream from very close by once again. Quickly look to the left of the gate to notice an area that’s worn down under the wall. Crawl through here (Hold Circle/B to get into crawling position). The axe lady won’t follow, and you’ll be safe… for now at least.
Move the container nearby to climb up to the upper level of the stables-like area you’ve entered, then drop down on the other side. The axe lady will appear again but leave you be. You’ve managed to get past the terror.
For more on Outlast 2, be sure to check out our wiki.