Welcome to our latest IGN First, where we dive deep into an entire month of exclusive coverage for April, all centered around The Outer Worlds 2. We're thrilled to bring you the very first look at its gameplay in real time, showcasing a thrilling quest where you infiltrate the N-Ray Facility. This glimpse not only highlights several new features and mechanics but also demonstrates how the game is rethinking level design. One aspect that truly stands out is the enhanced depth of its RPG elements, with developer Obsidian drawing inspiration from its rich history and even taking cues from immersive sims like Deus Ex and Dishonored.
The DNA of first-person RPGs has always been present, but The Outer Worlds 2 takes it up a notch with more sophisticated systems than its predecessor. A prime example is the introduction of a true stealth system, bolstered by better tools that make this playstyle not only viable but rewarding. You now have access to effective melee weapons and skills designed for silent takedowns. The game smartly indicates potential damage from stealth attacks via a purple-colored health bar above enemy heads, helping you decide if you can secure a one-hit kill or if it's even worth attacking. Enemies will detect dead bodies, prompting alerts to guards, but players can quickly clean up with a skill that disintegrates bodies on the spot.
The Outer Worlds 2 Gameplay - Screenshots
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As you progress through the quest, you'll acquire the N-Ray Scanner, a vital tool that allows you to see specific objects, NPCs, and enemies through walls. This is not only key for solving intricate environmental puzzles but also crucial for stealth and combat strategies. The N-Ray Facility is teeming with cloaked enemies that are invisible to the naked eye, yet easily detected with the N-Ray Scanner. Failure to use this tool diligently could result in unexpected ambushes, adding an extra layer of tactical gameplay.
Several interlocking systems contribute to a more personalized gameplay experience, enhancing the RPG elements that define specific character builds. Stealth and immersive sim elements are just part of the equation. Obsidian has also focused on improving gunplay, drawing inspiration from Destiny to achieve a more satisfying shooting experience. While The Outer Worlds 2 won't become a pure shooter, it aims to deliver the feel of a well-crafted first-person game with firearms.
This enhanced gunplay is evident when you storm the N-Ray Facility. Movement mechanics have been refined to complement the shooting dynamics, allowing for more fluid actions like sprint-sliding while aiming down sights, reminiscent of action heroes. The return of Tactical Time Dilation (TTD) enhances the bullet-time experience, making it an integral part of combat. Additionally, the introduction of throwables adds another strategic layer, enabling you to execute maneuvers like tossing a grenade, activating TTD, and shooting it mid-air to devastating effect on unsuspecting foes.
While there's little to share about the story at this stage, including the context around the N-Ray Facility quest, we can see subtle changes in conversation dynamics in the sequel. In the gameplay video, you'll encounter an NPC named Exemplar Foxworth, who has survived a cultist takeover. You can choose to help her based on your Medical stat or respond according to your Guns or Melee stats. This moment also introduces Aza, a new companion and former cultist, who joins you in your efforts to undo the damage caused by the cultists.
Many elements from the original The Outer Worlds return in some form, but the sequel aims to fully realize the vision that was laid out in the first game. I had the opportunity to discuss The Outer Worlds 2 with Obsidian's team, gaining insights into its new features and the overarching vision. The game seeks to blend Obsidian's RPG heritage with the possibilities of modern first-person RPGs, often referencing Fallout: New Vegas as a guiding light. This connection certainly fuels my anticipation for the game.
This is just a glimpse of what's in store with The Outer Worlds 2 and what we'll be covering throughout this month's IGN First. Expect in-depth breakdowns of character builds, the new flaws system, an array of unique weapons, and insights into the game's expansive scope through interviews with key figures like original Fallout developer and creative director Leonard Boyarsky, game director Brandon Adler, and design director Matt Singh. Stay tuned to IGN all April for more exciting updates!
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