Classes, skills, double jump – our tips guide shows you everything you need for the best possible start in The Outer Worlds 2.
Obsidian Entertainment has taken The Outer Worlds 2 to a whole new level compared to its predecessor. The game is much larger, there’s far more to do, and the mechanics go much deeper than in the first part. At the same time, it’s far less forgiving – once you commit to a certain path, you risk closing off opportunities for good. To help you hit the ground running in The Outer Worlds 2, we’ve put together this tips guide so you’re fully prepared for the early hours.
The Outer Worlds 2: Which Class Should I Choose?
Early in The Outer Worlds 2, you’ll need to decide on your character’s background and traits. Once you’ve made your choices, you’re locked in for the entire playthrough – there’s no going back.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Backgrounds mostly open up unique dialogue options that let you gain extra information or persuade NPCs. They serve more as role-playing flavor and don’t have real gameplay advantages or disadvantages.
- Traits offer active and passive perks that can even help solve certain puzzles. They noticeably shape how the game plays.
So think carefully about which direction you want to take your character.
Here’s a quick guide to help you out:
- If you prefer solving problems with brute force, go for attributes like “Brawny” or “Resilient.”
- “Heroic” works best for team players who rely heavily on companions.
- Choosing “Nimble” fits a playstyle focused on stealth and sneaking.
- “Innovative” is ideal if you plan to invest time in crafting weapons, armor mods, or consumables.
- “Brilliant” and “Suave” are perfect if you want to rely on conversation and persuasion rather than combat.
- “Witty” is great if you don’t want to side with any faction, while “Lucky” is a solid all-rounder choice for the undecided.
We’ve already put together two build guides to give you a first look at how to shape your character. Our Master Thief build focuses on hacking, stealing, and making quick cash, while the Stealth build turns you into a silent assassin.
The Outer Worlds 2: General Tips for Getting Started
- Yes, there is a flashlight — it’s a lifesaver in dark areas (D-pad up).
- Whenever possible, use your skills instead of objects. It earns you more experience points.
- Quests and side missions are crucial for gaining XP and leveling up faster. Take your time in the first area and complete everything you can.
- Time Dilation (TDD) is incredibly useful — use it in combat and look for mods or perks (including for companions) that boost your device energy. The effect will last longer.
- Study enemy weaknesses: Some foes have resistances or vulnerabilities to certain ammo types. Robots, for instance, are best taken down with energy weapons.
- Avoid killing robots or drones in melee — they release a corrosive gas cloud when destroyed.
- Sell your junk and duplicate gear regularly. Money is useful in more ways than one in The Outer Worlds 2.
- If you prefer crafting, break down junk and duplicates instead. You’ll get valuable crafting materials for mods and consumables.
- Check your loot regularly. You’ll collect a ton of weapons and armor over time — it’s easy to overlook useful gear.
- You can only perform stealth kills if you’ve invested in the Sneak skill. Without it, enemies will quickly become too tough for silent takedowns.
- Specialize! Don’t spread your points too thin — focus on three or four key skills. The game soon requires high values for key dialogue options.
- No, there’s no respec! Once you spend a skill point, it’s permanent. So plan carefully which playstyle you want to pursue.
- Pay attention to how you treat your companions! They all have their own principles and will leave if you constantly act against them or insult them.
- If the first act feels slow, stick with it. The Outer Worlds 2 takes its time but really kicks into gear — both in story and gameplay — after Act One. It’s worth pushing through, promise!
Do This First in The Outer Worlds 2
Don’t Skip Anything in Fairfield
The first region, Paradise Island, can easily keep you busy for 10 to 12 hours. It’s worth exploring every corner and completing all side missions — especially in Fairfield, make sure to finish everything before you infiltrate the Vox Relay Station during the main quest. Don’t ask why — just trust us!
Get the Double-Jump Boots ASAP
One of the best improvements in The Outer Worlds 2 over the first game is the double jump. It makes movement far more dynamic, lets you reach high places, and helps you traverse the map much faster. However, you’ll first need to unlock it via a missable side quest.
- Check out our detailed guide on how to unlock the double jump in The Outer Worlds 2.
Grab Scrabbles
To reach the Vox Relay Station mentioned above, you’ll need to cross a sealed-off bridge. Before that, you’ll encounter a minefield and a camp of Auntie’s Choice soldiers. Talk to Commander Torez and complete his mission. Your reward is the “Scrabbles” perk, which gives you a bonus to all Bits you find.
Unlock These Collectible Quests
On Paradise Island, you can unlock two collectible quests that offer valuable rewards. Southeast of the Ministry of Accuracy, you’ll meet Censor Officer Quesnel, who asks you to find missing magazines. From the landing site, head up the main road toward Fairfield, take the fork east into the forest, and you’ll find Betsy Szmuch, who sends you hunting for rare plants.
Lucy the Crab Is Waiting for You
South of the landing site where your ship, the Incognito, is parked, you’ll reach a beach. Follow the bay — watch out for killer crabs! — until you discover the crab farm. There, you can get a pet for your ship. Pro tip for explorers: nearby, there’s a hidden cave with another very special crab waiting just for you…
