The Outer Worlds 2 is almost here. Find out everything about its release, gameplay, story, and editions in this complete guide.
Coming in fall 2025, The Outer Worlds 2 is the long-awaited sequel to Obsidian Entertainment’s acclaimed sci-fi RPG. This time, you’ll head to the Arcadia system, where, as an agent of the Earth Directorate, you’ll navigate a universe ruled by authoritarian regimes, mega-corporations, and religious zealots. Here’s a breakdown of all the key details on the release, platforms, gameplay, and companions.
When does The Outer Worlds 2 release?
The Outer Worlds 2 launches worldwide on October 29, 2025, at 6 p.m. CEST for PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. Players who purchase the Premium Edition can jump in early starting October 24 at 6 a.m. The launch is global, meaning region switching won’t get you in ahead of schedule.
Which platforms will The Outer Worlds 2 be on?
The game will be available simultaneously on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC (Steam, Microsoft Store, Battle.net), and for the first time, PlayStation 5. Despite being published by Xbox, it’s not a console exclusive.
Is The Outer Worlds 2 on Game Pass?
Yes, The Outer Worlds 2 will be available on both the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and the PC Game Pass at launch. However, it won’t be included in the lower-tier Game Pass subscriptions.
Which editions are available?
The Outer Worlds 2 will be released in two editions:
Edition Contents Price Standard Edition Main game $69,99 / £59,99 Premium Edition Main game, 5 days early access, DLC pass (2 story expansions), “Moon Man’s Corporate Appreciation” pack, digital artbook, and soundtrack $99,99 / £89,99
For Xbox and PlayStation, there’s also a Code-in-a-Box version – a physical box that doesn’t include a disc.
What’s The Outer Worlds 2 about?
The sequel takes place in the Arcadia system, a remote colony far from the Halcyon worlds. You play as an agent of the Earth Directorate—a sort of interplanetary oversight bureau—investigating mysterious space-time rifts that threaten reality itself.
At the heart of the story is a power struggle among three factions with clashing agendas:
- The Protectorate – a dictatorial colonial government obsessed with control.
- Auntie’s Choice – a mega-corporation with military-grade influence.
- A religious uprising – viewing the rifts as manifestations of divine will.
Your choices will shape the balance of power between these factions—deciding who rises, who falls, and whether you side with order, chaos, or your own agenda.
Gameplay: What’s new?
The Outer Worlds 2 keeps its first-person RPG roots—emphasizing player choice, dark humor, and faction dynamics—but expands its mechanics across the board:
- New stealth mechanics like silent takedowns and stealth kills.
- The N-Ray Scanner lets you spot cloaked enemies through walls.
- Temporal detonation pauses combat for tactical decisions.
- Dynamic combat skills like dropkicks and melee finishers.
- New weapons such as energy blades, goo cannons, and science guns.
- Larger open zones with double jumps and parkour for better mobility.
- Improved gunplay inspired by Destiny and Halo.
According to Obsidian, the focus has shifted more toward abilities rather than raw stats. You’ll have access to twelve core skills, including Hacking and Engineering, and over 90 permanent perks. The revamped Flaw System introduces lasting weaknesses based on your playstyle—like gaining a penalty if you skip too many dialogue lines.
What weapons are in the game?
Obsidian has revealed several new weapons that mix bizarre creativity with tactical depth:
- The Boarst Blaster – fires explosive or healing tumors.
- Rookie’s Reward – levels up with you and celebrates each milestone with confetti.
- The Pop-Up Gun – launches ad drones to distract enemies.
- The Armageddon – shoots tiny arms that keep punching enemies.
- Spectrum Dance Saber – a rhythm-based sword that grants attack bonuses when you strike in sync with the beat.
- The Big Bang – a devastating rift weapon that uses rare ammo.
- Bullet Blender – combines every ammo type in your inventory.
- Gary – a living armor that attacks enemies autonomously.
Are there companions?
Yes. You’ll meet up to six companions, each tied to one of the main factions. While romance isn’t an option, every companion has their own questlines and reacts to your decisions throughout the story.
- Niles – a loyal agent of the Earth Directorate.
- Valerie (V.A.L.E.R.I.E.) – a medical support drone.
- Aza – a zealous cultist of the religious faction.
- Inez – a former medic and test subject for Auntie’s Choice experiments.
- Marisol – an assassin with hidden motives.
- Tristan – a Protectorate warrior obsessed with order.
The voice cast includes several big names: Jennifer Hale voices the female protagonist, Erica Luttrell plays Inez, and Kari Wahlgren lends her voice to Valerie.
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