Obsidian Entertainment delivers a substantial sequel to their 2019 sci-fi RPG, The Outer Worlds 2, building on the foundations of its predecessor while sharpening nearly every aspect of the gameplay. Released in 2025, the game stands as one of the year’s strongest RPG releases, combining deep role-playing mechanics with improved action-FPS elements.
A Galaxy of Intrigue and Betrayal
Players assume the role of an agent for the Earth Directorate, tasked with navigating a distant future where Earth controls colonies across the stars. What begins as a routine mission unravels into a shocking betrayal, forcing you to uncover the mastermind behind the conspiracy. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of an intergalactic power struggle between the totalitarian Protectorate – wielding faster-than-light travel – and Auntie’s Choice, a ruthless megacorporation formed from the merger of two familiar entities from the first game. The sequel maintains the original’s biting satire of consumerism, though the tonal balance occasionally falters.
Character Customization and Choice-Driven Gameplay
The Outer Worlds 2 places a heavy emphasis on player agency. Character creation is extensive, allowing for customization of appearance, background, traits, flaws, skills, and perks. These choices aren’t cosmetic; they directly shape gameplay, unlocking unique dialogue options and influencing how you overcome obstacles.
The game encourages specialization. Investing in a few key skills – hacking, lockpicking, speech, or engineering – unlocks powerful benefits, while attempting to master everything limits access to critical rewards. Perks, tied to skill levels, provide passive buffs that further customize your character build. Flaws are a returning feature, now more impactful with both positive and negative effects. For example, the “Foot-in-Mouth Syndrome” flaw grants experience boosts but forces random dialogue choices if you hesitate too long.
Improved Combat and Companion Dynamics
Combat has been significantly refined. Gunplay feels weighty and tactical, with a wide range of weapons, from fast-firing pistols to futuristic energy weapons. The game supports both aggressive and methodical playstyles.
Companions return, each with their own backstories, loyalty missions, and unique impacts on the narrative. Companions now influence events more directly; their presence can intimidate opponents, and neglecting their desires can lead to abandonment or even betrayal. Romance options remain absent, focusing instead on complex relationships and moral consequences.
The Satire Problem
While The Outer Worlds 2 excels in many areas, its satirical humor feels inconsistent. The game oscillates between serious, dramatic scenes and jarringly silly dialogue, often undermining immersion. Jokes land poorly when NPCs shrug off outrageous behavior, and the constant barrage of quips can detract from the world’s stakes. The satire, a hallmark of Obsidian’s style, doesn’t always serve the narrative effectively.
A Near Miss
Despite its tonal missteps, The Outer Worlds 2 is a compelling RPG. Its lush environments, cinematic presentation, and excellent voice acting create an immersive experience. The game’s strength lies in its depth: character builds, companion choices, and exploration all contribute to a uniquely tailored playthrough.
The Outer Worlds 2 comes incredibly close to greatness. Obsidian has created a strong contender for best sci-fi RPG, but the jarring humor prevents it from reaching its full potential. The studio may refine its approach in future installments, but this sequel remains a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.
