The Outer Worlds 2 marks an impressive feat for Obsidian Entertainment, as it is not just their first game of the year but their second. Despite being a relatively smaller studio, Obsidian has managed to release both the fantasy RPG Avowed and the highly anticipated sequel to The Outer Worlds within the same year. While Avowed had its areas for improvement, it successfully provided an engaging action-RPG experience, emphasizing combat mechanics.
Comparisons have inevitably arisen, positioning Outer Worlds 2 against Starfield, similar to how Avowed was juxtaposed with Skyrim. Thankfully, the expectations for Outer Worlds 2 seem comparatively moderate, especially given Starfield‘s mixed reception, which stemmed from dated gameplay elements and graphics. Nevertheless, recent gameplay footage suggests that The Outer Worlds 2 may be emulating some of Starfield‘s less favorable attributes.
Exciting New Gameplay Footage of The Outer Worlds 2
11 Minutes of Gameplay Revealed
In anticipation of the upcoming Xbox Summer Showcase, where more gameplay will be revealed, Obsidian Entertainment has generated excitement for The Outer Worlds 2. IGN has released 11 minutes of gameplay footage, showcasing a mission in which players navigate an underground facility, assist a non-player character (NPC) in eliminating cultists, and retrieve a critical item.
This segment features a blend of dialogue sequences and high-octane action, highlighted by an intense moment where the player employs a grenade throw, slows time, and detonates it mid-air to take out the enemies below. This sequence effectively demonstrates the game’s constant spirit and solidifies its status as one of the most awaited first-person shooters of 2025.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhDvnM3wBaQhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhDvnM3wBaQ
The gameplay footage provides a glimpse into various dialogue options, including interactions like offering health kits, which are contingent on the player’s equipped weapon and skill set. While these options seem typical for The Outer Worlds, some unique weapons add a layer of excitement. However, this demo raises concerns as it bears a close resemblance to Starfield in aspects that might not appeal to players.
Echoing the Flaws of Starfield
Loading Screens, Facial Animations, & More
There are numerous shortcomings in Starfield, including the ineffective use of procedurally generated worlds, uninspired writing, frequent loading screens, and a lack of immersive experience. Consequently, it is surprising to see The Outer Worlds 2 employing similar loading screens between game areas, as experienced in 2025. Such a decision appears somewhat regressive, especially for a next-gen exclusive title.
Although Avowed does incorporate loading screens, it wisely moves away from the open-world format, which can be a positive change. In contrast, The Outer Worlds 2 showcases the player transitioning between connected dungeons, restricting the sense of exploration and connection to the game world. The quick loading times might provide some relief, yet the inclusion of loading screens feels outdated.
Another area of concern relates to the facial animations presented in the gameplay. The characters involved in dialogue sport masks, obscuring their facial expressions, which might have been an intentional choice given the mission’s context. However, it raises questions about the quality of facial animations in the game overall.
While it’s conceivable that The Outer Worlds 2 may exceed Starfield in terms of facial animations, the lack of visibility in this demo is disconcerting, especially since Avowed didn’t excel in that aspect either. Compounded by the constant chatter from the player’s companion, reminiscent of Starfield‘s less appealing partnerships, it raises some doubts about this sequel’s capabilities.
Potential for Greatness in The Outer Worlds 2
A Preview of What’s Ahead
Despite the concerns raised about the uninspired environments, missing facial animations, and persistent loading screens in this gameplay footage, I still feel a surge of excitement for Obsidian Entertainment’s upcoming project. Historically, Obsidian has yet to disappoint with a subpar game or one lacking creativity, even if their execution isn’t flawless. I remain hopeful that, like the outstanding and unique Avowed, The Outer Worlds 2 can deliver an inspired experience to fans.
It’s crucial to remember that we’ve only seen 11 minutes of gameplay; I’ve encountered lengthier spans of boredom in many beloved titles. While the segments shared leading up to a game’s release are typically strategic selections, I believe Obsidian is merely providing a glimpse, with more exciting content to be revealed at the Xbox Summer Showcase. Given the substantial development time for The Outer Worlds 2, it’s reasonable to anticipate much greater depth than what has been shown so far.
Additionally, I aspire to maintain a sense of optimism regarding video games; this is not an easy stance to uphold. It’s effortless to succumb to skepticism and react strongly to initial gameplay footage, especially after past disappointments. Nonetheless, at least for now, my hope remains that there’s more to The Outer Worlds 2 than what currently appears, particularly because I genuinely wish for it to succeed and to ensure that any investment I make in it proves worthwhile.
Source: IGN/YouTube