Exclusive 11-Minute Gameplay of The Outer Worlds 2 - IGN First

Welcome to our exclusive IGN First coverage for April, where we dive deep into The Outer Worlds 2. This month, we're thrilled to bring you the very first look at real-time gameplay, featuring a quest that showcases the game's innovative features and mechanics, particularly during your infiltration of the N-Ray Facility. What struck me most was the enhanced depth of the RPG experience, with developer Obsidian drawing inspiration from its rich history and even from immersive sims like Deus Ex and Dishonored.

The game introduces more sophisticated systems than its predecessor, including a refined stealth system. You'll now have access to effective melee weapons and skills for silent takedowns, making stealth a viable playstyle. A new feature includes a purple-colored readout above enemy heads that indicates potential stealth attack damage, allowing you to decide if a one-hit kill is feasible or if it's better to wait. Additionally, enemies can detect dead bodies, prompting alerts, but players with the right skills can disintegrate bodies to cover their tracks.

The Outer Worlds 2 Gameplay - Screenshots

25 ImagesLater in the quest, you'll acquire the N-Ray Scanner, a crucial tool for both environmental puzzles and stealth combat. It allows you to see through walls, spotting cloaked enemies and important objects. Neglecting to use it could lead to surprise attacks from hidden foes, demonstrating how gadgets enrich the gameplay experience.

The game's design leans heavily into RPG elements, supporting diverse character builds. Beyond stealth, The Outer Worlds 2 also focuses on improving gunplay, taking cues from Destiny to enhance the feel of firearms. While not turning into a pure shooter, the game aims to deliver a satisfying first-person shooting experience. This is evident in the dynamic movement mechanics during a guns-blazing approach to the N-Ray Facility, where players can sprint-slide while aiming, enhancing the action-hero vibe. The return of Tactical Time Dilation (TTD) adds a bullet-time element to combat, and the introduction of throwables allows for strategic plays like shooting a grenade midair to devastating effect.

Although details about the story and the context of the N-Ray Facility quest are sparse, we've seen enhancements in dialogue interactions. In one instance, you encounter Exemplar Foxworth, who has survived a cultist takeover. Your response to her plight can be influenced by your Medical, Guns, or Melee stats. This section also introduces Aza, a former cultist and new companion, who joins your cause to rectify past wrongs.

Many of these elements build upon the foundation laid by the original Outer Worlds, but The Outer Worlds 2 appears to be a fully realized version of Obsidian's vision. The developers are keen on leveraging their RPG heritage while exploring what a modern first-person RPG can offer, often referencing Fallout: New Vegas as a guiding light.

This month's IGN First will delve into various aspects of The Outer Worlds 2, including character builds, the new flaws system, unique weapons, and the game's expanded scope. Stay tuned for 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 throughout April for all the latest updates!