Welcome to our latest IGN First, where we're dedicating April to exclusive coverage of The Outer Worlds 2. This is your first real-time glimpse into its gameplay, featuring a quest where you infiltrate the N-Ray Facility. This mission showcases several new features and mechanics, highlighting how the game rethinks level design and delves deeper into its RPG elements. Obsidian, the developer, draws inspiration from its past successes and immersive sims like Deus Ex and Dishonored, promising a richer RPG experience.
One of the standout features in The Outer Worlds 2 is its enhanced RPG systems. Compared to its predecessor, the sequel introduces a sophisticated stealth system, complete with better tools and effective melee weapons for a more viable stealth playstyle. A new feature includes a purple-colored readout above enemy heads, indicating potential stealth attack damage. This helps players decide whether they can achieve a one-hit kill or if it's worth engaging. Enemies can detect dead bodies, which might alert guards, but players with the right skills can quickly disintegrate these bodies to avoid detection.
The Outer Worlds 2 Gameplay - Screenshots
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Later in the quest, players can acquire the N-Ray Scanner, a crucial tool that allows them to see through walls, spotting objects, NPCs, and enemies. This scanner is vital for solving environmental puzzles and enhances both stealth and combat strategies. Cloaked enemies within the N-Ray Facility become visible through the scanner, adding a new layer of tactical gameplay.
The game features several interlocking systems that influence your playstyle, emphasizing RPG elements and character builds. Beyond stealth, The Outer Worlds 2 focuses on improving gunplay, inspired by games like Destiny. While not turning into a full-on shooter, the game's gunplay feels more refined and satisfying. The N-Ray Facility mission showcases this when players approach it with guns blazing. Enhanced movement mechanics complement the gunplay, allowing for agile actions like sprint-sliding while aiming. 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 strategic options.
While details about the story are scarce, the gameplay video offers a glimpse into tweaked conversation mechanics. For instance, during an interaction with an NPC named Exemplar Foxworth, players can choose actions based on their Medical, Guns, or Melee stats. This encounter also introduces a new companion, Aza, a former cultist eager to rectify past actions.
Though many elements echo the original The Outer Worlds, the sequel aims to fully realize Obsidian's vision. Insights from conversations with the developers, including original Fallout creator and creative director Leonard Boyarsky, game director Brandon Adler, and design director Matt Singh, reveal a strong emphasis on RPG roots and modern first-person RPG design, often referencing Fallout: New Vegas as a benchmark.
This month's IGN First coverage will dive deeper into The Outer Worlds 2, exploring character builds, the new flaws system, unique weapons, and the expanded scope of the sequel. Stay tuned to IGN throughout April for more in-depth analysis and exclusive content!
