The Outer Worlds 2: News, Trailers, Release Date, and More

Last Updated: November 13, 2025


The Outer Worlds 2 logo with a vast, colorful alien landscape.

Years after its memorable announcement, Obsidian Entertainment's The Outer Worlds 2 remains one of the most anticipated RPGs on the horizon. The original game captured hearts with its sharp satirical humor, vibrant corporate-dystopian setting, and deep commitment to player choice. The sequel promises to expand on that formula, taking players to an entirely new frontier.

While Obsidian has remained famously tight-lipped since the game's reveal, the initial announcement and the studio's pedigree give us a clear picture of what to expect. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of everything we know about The Outer Worlds 2, updated with the latest information.

The Hilarious Reveal and What Was Confirmed

The Outer Worlds 2 was officially announced during the Xbox & Bethesda Games Showcase in June 2021 with a brilliantly self-aware trailer. Rather than show off-target gameplay or a vague cinematic, the trailer leaned into the absurdity of modern game reveals. A dramatic voiceover described epic shots of monsters, heroes, and sprawling landscapes, all while admitting none of it had been designed yet.

Beneath the humor, the trailer confirmed the most crucial details: The Outer Worlds 2 will transport players to a brand-new star system with a new crew. This confirms the sequel is a fresh start, freeing the developers to explore new worlds, factions, and alien creatures without being constrained by the lore of the Halcyon system.

A Grand, Unexplored Galaxy

The move to a new star system is the single most significant change for the sequel. While the corporate-controlled Halcyon was a fantastic setting, a new galaxy offers limitless potential. Players can expect to discover entirely new planets with unique biomes, from treacherous alien jungles to technologically advanced cityscapes.

This narrative reset allows Obsidian to do what it does best: build a rich, reactive world from the ground up. Key expectations based on the studio's legacy include:

  • Deep RPG Mechanics: Expect a robust evolution of the first game's character creation, skill systems, and branching dialogue trees where your choices have a tangible impact on the world and narrative.
  • Engaging Storytelling: Obsidian is renowned for crafting compelling stories with morally grey conflicts and unforgettable characters. The sequel will undoubtedly deliver another thought-provoking adventure.
  • Signature Humor and Satire: The unique blend of dark comedy and biting corporate satire is the soul of the series. This will return as players encounter a new set of hyper-capitalist factions vying for control.
  • Next-Gen Visuals: Developed for current hardware, the game will leverage the power of Xbox Series X|S and modern PCs to create a more visually stunning and immersive experience than its predecessor.

The Future of Companions

Companions were a highlight of the original game, and while the trailer confirmed a "new crew," the system itself is sure to return. The desire for more diverse and interactive companions is one of the most common requests from the community. Fans have often speculated about the possibility of recruiting non-humanoid or even animal companions from the alien worlds players will explore.

While no specific companion types have been confirmed, the possibility of befriending a native creature—a furry, scaly, or feathery friend—remains a popular hope. Features like petting or other unique interactions would only deepen the bond between the player and their crew, adding a layer of warmth to the harsh realities of space. For now, this remains speculation, but it's an exciting prospect for the expanded sequel.

Obsidian Entertainment's Legacy of Excellence

Obsidian Entertainment has cemented its reputation as a master of the RPG genre. With a portfolio that includes timeless classics like Fallout: New Vegas and Pillars of Eternity, the studio has consistently proven its ability to deliver intricate narratives, meaningful player agency, and deep world-building.

The first Outer Worlds was a testament to this legacy, and the sequel is poised to be its next evolution. The studio's recent successes with the survival game Grounded and the ongoing development of its fantasy RPG Avowed show a team operating at the peak of its creative power. This track record is the strongest indicator of the quality and depth fans can expect from The Outer Worlds 2.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is The Outer Worlds 2 being released?

A: No release date or window has been announced. The game has been in active development since its 2021 reveal, but Obsidian Entertainment has not provided an official timeline.

Q: What platforms will The Outer Worlds 2 be available on?

A: The Outer Worlds 2 is confirmed for Xbox Series X|S and PC. As a first-party Xbox title, it will also be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one.

Q: Has any gameplay been shown?

A: No. The announcement trailer was purely cinematic and intentionally made fun of the fact that it showed no actual gameplay, story, or finalized character designs.

Q: Will the story connect to the original game?

A: While the game is set in a new star system with a new crew, it's possible there will be narrative or thematic links to the first game. However, it is being developed as a standalone adventure that new players can jump into.

Q: Will the original companions from The Unreliable return?

A: The announcement trailer explicitly stated players will have a "new crew," so it is highly unlikely that characters like Parvati, Felix, or Vicar Max will return as primary companions. Cameos or references, however, are always a possibility.