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

Welcome to our latest IGN First, where we're dedicating the entire month of April to bring you exclusive coverage of The Outer Worlds 2. This is your very first look at its gameplay in real time, showcasing a thrilling quest that involves infiltrating the N-Ray Facility. This quest not only demonstrates several new features and mechanics but also highlights how the game rethinks level design. One aspect that truly stands out is the game's deeper dive into RPG elements, with developer Obsidian drawing from their rich history and taking inspiration from immersive sims like Deus Ex and Dishonored.

The DNA of first-person RPGs is evident in The Outer Worlds 2, but this sequel boasts more sophisticated systems than its predecessor. For instance, it introduces a true stealth system, complete with better tools and effective melee weapons, making this playstyle not only viable but engaging. A notable feature is the health bar above enemy heads, which includes a purple-colored readout indicating the potential damage from a stealth attack. This allows players to assess whether they can achieve a one-hit kill or if it's worth engaging the target. Additionally, enemies can detect dead bodies, triggering alerts among guards, though players with the right skill can disintegrate bodies to avoid detection.

The Outer Worlds 2 Gameplay - Screenshots

25 ImagesAs you progress through the quest, you'll acquire the N-Ray Scanner, a vital tool that enables you to see through walls to locate objects, NPCs, and enemies. This gadget is crucial for solving environmental puzzles and is equally important for stealth and combat strategies. The N-Ray Facility is home to cloaked enemies, invisible to the naked eye but detectable with the N-Ray Scanner. Failing to use this tool diligently can lead to unexpected ambushes, illustrating how gadgets add a new layer of complexity to the gameplay.

The game features several interlocking systems that enhance the RPG experience, allowing for diverse character builds. Stealth and immersive sim elements are just part of the broader gameplay expansion in The Outer Worlds 2. Obsidian has also focused on improving gunplay, drawing inspiration from Destiny to ensure a satisfying shooting experience. While the game doesn't transform into a full-blown shooter, it offers a more refined first-person shooting experience.

During the gameplay demonstration, we see the enhanced movement mechanics that complement the gunplay, allowing for more agile actions like sprint-sliding while aiming down sights. The return of Tactical Time Dilation (TTD) adds a bullet-time element to combat, and the introduction of throwables, such as grenades, provides players with additional tactical options. For instance, you can toss a grenade, activate TTD, and shoot it midair to create devastating effects on enemies.

While details about the story are scarce, the gameplay video reveals tweaks to the conversation system. In one scene, you encounter an NPC named Exemplar Foxworth, who has survived a cultist takeover. Depending on your Medical, Guns, or Melee stats, you can choose to help her or respond differently. This segment also introduces a new companion, Aza, a former cultist who joins your quest to rectify past actions.

While *The Outer Worlds* laid the groundwork for Obsidian's vision, *The Outer Worlds 2* aims to fully realize that vision. My discussions with the team at Obsidian provided insights into the new features and the overarching vision for the sequel. They're keen on leveraging their RPG heritage while pushing the boundaries of what a modern first-person RPG can be, often citing *Fallout: New Vegas* as a key influence. This has certainly raised my expectations for the game.

This is just a glimpse of what's in store for The Outer Worlds 2, and we'll be covering it extensively throughout this month's IGN First. Stay tuned for more in-depth breakdowns of character builds, the new flaws system, the array of unique weapons, and the expanded scope of the sequel. We'll be featuring interviews with key figures like original Fallout developer and creative director Leonard Boyarsky, game director Brandon Adler, and design director Matt Singh. Keep checking back at IGN all April long for more exciting updates!