The Outer Worlds 2: Exclusive 11-Minute Gameplay Revealed - IGN First

Welcome to our exclusive IGN First coverage for April, where we're diving deep into the highly anticipated The Outer Worlds 2. This month, we're thrilled to bring you the very first real-time gameplay glimpse, showcasing a thrilling quest at the N-Ray Facility. This sneak peek not only reveals new features and mechanics but also highlights how the game is redefining level design. One of the most striking aspects is the enhanced depth in its RPG elements, with Obsidian drawing inspiration from its rich history and the immersive sims genre, such as Deus Ex and Dishonored.

The gameplay of The Outer Worlds 2 shows a significant evolution from its predecessor. It introduces a sophisticated stealth system, complete with effective melee weapons and skills that allow for silent takedowns. A notable feature is the health bar above enemy heads, which includes a purple-colored indicator showing the potential damage of a stealth attack. This helps players determine if a one-hit kill is possible or if it's worth engaging the target. Moreover, the game adds realism with enemies detecting dead bodies and alerting guards, though players with the right skills can quickly disintegrate bodies to avoid detection.

The Outer Worlds 2 Gameplay - Screenshots

25 ImagesLater in the quest, players acquire the N-Ray Scanner, a pivotal tool for both stealth and combat. This device allows visibility through walls, crucial for solving complex environmental puzzles and spotting cloaked enemies at the N-Ray Facility. Neglecting the use of this scanner can lead to unexpected ambushes, illustrating how gadgets enrich the gameplay experience.

The game features several interlocking systems that enhance the RPG experience, allowing for diverse character builds. Beyond stealth, The Outer Worlds 2 focuses on improving gunplay, taking cues from Destiny to enhance the feel of firearms. While not turning into a full-blown shooter, the game offers a more refined first-person shooting experience. Enhanced movement mechanics complement gunplay, enabling actions like sprint-sliding while aiming, adding a cinematic flair to combat. The return of Tactical Time Dilation (TTD) continues to offer strategic depth, and the inclusion of throwables adds another layer to tactical combat, such as tossing a grenade and using TTD to shoot it midair for explosive effects.

Although details about the overarching story remain sparse, the gameplay video reveals tweaks in conversation mechanics. An interaction with an NPC named Exemplar Foxworth, who has survived a cultist takeover, showcases how players' choices can affect outcomes based on their Medical, Guns, or Melee stats. Additionally, a new companion, Aza, a former cultist, joins the player, adding a dynamic element to the narrative.

Many elements from the original The Outer Worlds are expanded upon in the sequel, aiming to fully realize the vision Obsidian set out with the first game. Through discussions with the team at Obsidian, including insights from key figures like original Fallout developer and creative director Leonard Boyarsky, game director Brandon Adler, and design director Matt Singh, it's clear that The Outer Worlds 2 is poised to blend Obsidian's RPG heritage with modern first-person RPG innovations, with Fallout: New Vegas serving as a significant inspiration.

This month's IGN First will delve further into The Outer Worlds 2, covering character builds, the new flaws system, an array of unique weapons, and the game's expanded scope. Stay tuned to IGN throughout April for more in-depth coverage!