It’s been a few years since we first journeyed to the Halcyon colony, where corporate greed met hilarious absurdity in Obsidian Entertainment’s beloved RPG, The Outer Worlds.

With the sequel, The Outer Worlds 2, slated for release next month in October 2025, the hype is palpable. While details have been kept under wraps with Obsidian’s signature wit, we can’t help but speculate on what new adventures, corporate shenanigans, and morally ambiguous choices await us in the next chapter of this beloved spacefaring saga.

Bigger Worlds, More Exploration?

One of the common desires from fans of the original was for larger, more interconnected environments. While the first game offered distinct, charmingly crafted zones, many are hoping The Outer Worlds 2 will expand its scope. Could we see more expansive planets, perhaps with fewer loading screens between areas, allowing for a more seamless sense of exploration? Obsidian is known for its rich world-building, and the prospect of delving deeper into new, unexplored corners of the galaxy – or even entirely new star systems – is incredibly exciting. Imagine encountering bizarre alien flora and fauna, un-colonized planets teeming with hidden secrets, or even venturing into the perilous depths of uncharted space.

Refined Combat and Companions

The original game’s combat was solid, offering a variety of weapon types and tactical time dilation (TTD) for those dramatic slow-motion moments. For the sequel, we can likely expect a refinement of these mechanics. Perhaps new weapon categories, more robust companion commands, or even deeper customization for our crew. Speaking of companions, they were undoubtedly a highlight of the first game, each brimming with personality and compelling personal quests. We’re eager to see if old favorites make a return (maybe as references or in expanded lore), or if an entirely new roster of quirky, endearing, and often morally conflicted characters will join our crew. More unique companion abilities and enhanced synergy between team members would also be a welcome addition.

Even Deeper Choices and Consequences

Obsidian’s reputation for player choice and meaningful consequences precedes them, and The Outer Worlds delivered on this promise. We made difficult decisions that genuinely impacted the fate of colonies and individuals. For The Outer Worlds 2, we fully expect this to be amplified. Could our choices have even grander, more far-reaching effects on the entire corporate-dominated galaxy? Will factions be more complex, and allegiances even more fluid? The satirical take on capitalism and corporate culture is a core strength, and we anticipate even sharper writing and more biting social commentary, forcing us to grapple with tough ethical dilemmas wrapped in a layer of charming absurdity.

A New Protagonist, A New Story?

While the narrative of the first game felt fairly self-contained, the ending certainly left room for the universe to expand. It’s highly probable that The Outer Worlds 2 will feature a new protagonist, perhaps one who awakens from cryo-sleep in a different, equally precarious situation. This allows for a fresh start, new connections, and the ability to explore a different angle of the corporate-controlled cosmos. However, we’d love to see subtle nods, returning characters in new roles, or even lore connections that tie back to the events of Halcyon. The mystery of the true nature of the corporations and the wider galaxy is ripe for further exploration.

Visuals and Performance

Given the capabilities of current-gen hardware, we can certainly expect a significant visual upgrade for The Outer Worlds 2. While the first game had a distinct art style, imagine more detailed environments, enhanced lighting, and more expressive character models bringing the quirky world to life with even greater fidelity. Optimized performance will also be key, ensuring a smooth experience as we navigate whatever new challenges the universe throws our way.

The Future is Unwritten (But Probably Corporate-Controlled)

The Outer Worlds 2 has the potential to build upon everything that made the original so special, taking players on another unforgettable journey filled with humor, heart, and hard choices. As we count down the days to its October release, the anticipation is almost unbearable. One thing’s for sure: whether we’re fighting monstrous creatures, negotiating with eccentric corporate executives, or simply trying to decide which brand of toothpaste is least likely to kill us, it’s going to be one hell of a ride.