NoNewTaleToTell: The way Outcast introduces the ability to save is a bit silly, your character is given a crystal named something like "Gamsav" and you're told it has magical abilities such as saving your spirit whenever you use it, some mumbo jumbo like that.
I think it's the charm of outcast : most of it is mumbo jumbo that ultimately makes sense.
I usually like tutorials to be a packed mini level with a lot of freedom. I like myth 2 tutorial because it is a nice sandbox, and the first level is advice heavy. What I can't bear are unskipable cinematics or forced practice on obvious things ("shoot 50 targets with your gun and proceed to the next step", "use WASD to scroll the camera : DO IT NOW !")
Now, a well integrated tutorial .... I remember E.Y.E Cybermancy to have a varied first level, with barebone explanations, and the possibility to go in the menu watch video tutorials on multiple aspects of the game. The result doesn't feel pushed down the throat as you can pick what level of information you need.
Edit : Misteryo, how is your stress level btw ? are "things" going as planned ? :-)