Welcome to our exclusive IGN First coverage for April, where we delve deep into The Outer Worlds 2. This month-long feature gives you an unprecedented first look at the game's real-time gameplay, showcasing a thrilling quest that involves infiltrating the N-Ray Facility. This quest not only highlights several new features and mechanics but also demonstrates how the game is redefining level design. One aspect that truly stands out is the enhanced depth as an RPG, with developer Obsidian drawing inspiration from its rich history and iconic immersive sims such as Deus Ex and Dishonored.
The DNA of first-person RPGs has always been present, but The Outer Worlds 2 introduces more sophisticated systems than its predecessor. A prime example is the introduction of a true stealth system, bolstered by better tools and effective melee weapons that facilitate silent takedowns. During gameplay, you'll notice a health bar above enemy heads, featuring a purple-colored readout that indicates the potential damage of a stealth attack. This helps you decide whether a one-hit kill is possible or if engaging the target is worth the risk. Additionally, enemies can detect dead bodies and alert guards, but with the right skill, you can quickly disintegrate these bodies, leaving no trace behind.
The Outer Worlds 2 Gameplay - Screenshots
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As the quest progresses, you'll acquire the N-Ray Scanner, a device that allows you to see through walls, revealing hidden objects, NPCs, and enemies. This tool is essential for solving complex environmental puzzles and plays a critical role in both stealth and combat scenarios. The N-Ray Facility is home to cloaked enemies that are invisible to the naked eye but can be detected with the N-Ray Scanner. Failing to use this gadget diligently could lead to unexpected encounters with these stealthy adversaries, adding a new layer of strategy to the gameplay.
The Outer Worlds 2 boasts several interlocking systems that influence your gameplay style, deeply enriching the RPG elements and enabling specific character builds. While stealth and immersive sim elements expand the gameplay, Obsidian has also focused on improving gunplay, taking inspiration from games like Destiny to enhance the feel of firearms. Although not transforming into a full-on shooter, the game offers a more dynamic first-person shooting experience.
During the approach to the N-Ray Facility, you can opt for a guns-blazing strategy. Movement mechanics have been refined to complement gunplay, allowing for more agile actions such as sprint-sliding while aiming down sights. The return of Tactical Time Dilation (TTD) further enhances combat, providing a bullet-time effect that's integral to your combat strategy. Additionally, throwables like grenades can be used creatively, such as tossing one, activating TTD, and shooting it midair to cause devastating explosions.While details about the story and the context of the N-Ray Facility quest are sparse, we've seen how conversations in the sequel have evolved. In one segment, you encounter an NPC named Exemplar Foxworth, who's survived a cultist takeover and is bleeding out. Depending on your Medical, Guns, or Melee stats, you can choose to help her or respond accordingly. This scene also introduces Aza, a new companion with a cultist background, who joins your quest to rectify past actions.
Many elements in *The Outer Worlds 2* build upon the foundations laid by the original game. However, where the first game was about establishing a new groundwork, the sequel aims to fully realize Obsidian's vision. Through interviews with key figures such as original *Fallout* developer and creative director Leonard Boyarsky, game director Brandon Adler, and design director Matt Singh, we gained insight into the game's new features and the overarching vision. Obsidian is keen on blending its RPG heritage with modern first-person RPG mechanics, often citing *Fallout: New Vegas* as a guiding influence.This month's IGN First coverage of The Outer Worlds 2 is just the beginning. Stay tuned for in-depth breakdowns of character builds, the new flaws system, an array of unique weapons, and insights into how much larger this sequel is. Keep visiting IGN throughout April for more exclusive content!
