The Outer Worlds 2: 11-Minute Gameplay Debut

Welcome to our exclusive IGN First coverage this April, featuring an in-depth look at The Outer Worlds 2. This is your first real-time glimpse of gameplay, showcasing a mission where you infiltrate the N-Ray Facility. Discover new game mechanics, refined level design, and an enriched RPG experience as Obsidian draws from its history and immersive sims like Deus Ex and Dishonored.

The RPG DNA in first-person games is nothing new, but The Outer Worlds 2 introduces deeper systems than its predecessor. Experience a true stealth system with practical tools, including reliable melee weapons and silent takedown abilities. For instance, enemy health bars now feature a purple indicator showing the potential damage from a stealth attack—helping you decide whether to go for a one-hit kill. Enemies will notice fallen comrades and alert guards, but you can eliminate evidence with skills like on-the-spot body disintegration.

The Outer Worlds 2 Gameplay - Screenshots

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Later in the mission, you acquire the N-Ray Scanner to detect objects and enemies through walls. This tool isn’t just essential for solving environmental puzzles—it’s also vital for stealth and combat. Cloaked enemies roam the N-Ray Facility, invisible to the naked eye but visible through the scanner. Without diligent use, these hidden foes can ambush you, demonstrating how new gadgets reshape gameplay.

Multiple interconnected systems influence your playstyle, emphasizing RPG elements that define character builds.

These systems allow for deeper customization, ensuring stealth and immersive sim elements aren’t the only upgrades. Obsidian also focused heavily on improving gunplay, inspired by titles like Destiny for a more responsive feel. While not a pure shooter, the game delivers smooth firearm mechanics true to first-person action.

This refinement is evident during the assault on the N-Ray Facility. Enhanced movement complements gunplay, allowing quick sprints and slides while aiming. Tactical Time Dilation (TTD) returns, integrating bullet-time into combat seamlessly. Throwables add another tactical layer—imagine tossing a grenade, activating TTD, and shooting it mid-air to surprise enemies.

Story details remain scarce, but conversational mechanics have evolved. In one scene, you meet Exemplar Foxworth, injured during a cultist takeover. Your Medical skill can save her, or your Guns/Melee stats influence dialogue options. We also meet Aza, a frantic former cultist companion aiding your mission.

Many features from the original return, but The Outer Worlds 2 fully realizes Obsidian’s initial vision. Our early access and interviews with the team reveal a sequel rooted in RPG tradition yet modernized—often referencing Fallout: New Vegas as a benchmark. Expectations are high for this ambitious project.

This is just a preview of our April IGN First coverage. Stay tuned for breakdowns on character builds, the new flaws system, unique weapons, and the game’s expanded scope through insights from creators like Leonard Boyarsky, Brandon Adler, and Matt Singh. Visit IGN throughout April for more updates!