Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Twitch

MONSTER

The Outer Worlds 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Outer Worlds 2
Item: The Outer Worlds 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Science Fiction and Futuristic, RPG, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableOct 29, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperObsidian Entertainment

Overview

As a daring and most likely good-looking Earth Directorate agent, you must uncover the source of devastating rifts threatening to destroy all of humanity. Your investigation leads to Arcadia, home of skip drive technology, where the fate of the colony, and ultimately the entire galaxy, rests on your decisions—your strengths, your flaws, your crew, and the factions you choose to trust.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outer Worlds 2 garners mixed reviews; praised for its sharp satire, engaging characters, and player choice, but criticized for a lack of depth and originality in its narrative. While it tackles complex themes of capitalism and politics, many find the story forgettable and inconsistent, with underdeveloped characters. Overall, it shows promise but struggles to meet the high bar set by its predecessor.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of critics regarding the story of The Outer Worlds 2 reveal a mix of positive elements that highlight the game's strengths. Many reviewers appreciate the satirical tone and humor that Obsidian Entertainment is known for, with critics like Gamer.no and Gamekult praising the narrative for its sharp social criticism and engaging character writing. The game is noted for its complex plot involving various factions, which allows for significant player choice and moral dilemmas, as highlighted by TechRadar Gaming and Noisy Pixel. Additionally, several reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and PlayUA, emphasize the richness of the world-building and the depth of the narrative, suggesting that the game offers an engaging experience that reflects on capitalism and political dynamics. However, the overall sentiment regarding the story is marred by a number of criticisms. Several reviewers, such as RPG Fan and DBLTAP, point out the lack of depth and originality in the narrative, describing it as poorly structured and overly simplistic. Critics like Atomix and Eurogamer Poland note that while the story begins with a promising premise, it loses momentum and emotional weight as it progresses. The main antagonist and some character interactions are also seen as underdeveloped, as mentioned by GamePro Germany. This inconsistency in character motivations and narrative engagement leads to a perception of the story as forgettable or cliché, which detracts from the overall experience. In conclusion, while there are notable strengths in the humor, satire, and player agency within The Outer Worlds 2, the consensus among critics indicates a significant number of shortcomings in its storytelling. Critics such as IGN and PC Gamer highlight the narrative's grounding in political dilemmas, yet many others point to its lack of emotional depth and originality. The game appears to struggle with tonal inconsistencies and character development, leading to a mixed reception. Overall, while The Outer Worlds 2 has elements that resonate with players, the criticisms suggest that it may not fully live up to the expectations set by its predecessor.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outer Worlds 2 impresses critics with enhanced combat mechanics, robust character customization, and a unique Flaw system that boost player choice and exploration. However, it faces criticism for repetitive quests, unbalanced gameplay, and lackluster companion AI. Overall, while it has its flaws, the game is praised for its engaging RPG elements and significant improvements over its predecessor, making it a notable entry in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of The Outer Worlds 2 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who have highlighted several key strengths. Many reviewers, such as GAMINGbible and Game Informer, praised the improvements in combat mechanics and gunplay, noting that the game feels more engaging and enjoyable compared to its predecessor. The character customization options and the introduction of a unique Flaw system were also well-received, with critics like Loot Level Chill and Player 2 emphasizing how these elements enhance player choice and allow for diverse character builds. Additionally, the game encourages exploration and offers multiple approaches to mission completion, which was noted by Gamer.no and Metro GameCentral, further enriching the RPG experience. However, despite the overall praise, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay. For instance, RPG Fan expressed concerns about repetitive quests and a lack of meaningful choices, which can lead to a sense of tedium. Similarly, VGC and IGN France mentioned that while combat can be enjoyable, it may become unbalanced later in the game, with some skills feeling less viable. The AI of companions was also criticized, as noted by Combo Infinito, who found them unresponsive during battles. Furthermore, pacing issues and a lack of challenge in encounters were highlighted by critics like Wccftech and TechRadar Gaming, suggesting that the gameplay can sometimes feel uneven. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Outer Worlds 2 delivers a compelling gameplay experience that builds on its predecessor while introducing significant improvements. While some reviewers pointed out issues such as repetitive quests, unbalanced gameplay, and companion AI shortcomings, the majority felt that the game successfully emphasizes player choice, character customization, and engaging combat mechanics. Critics like GamePro Germany and Creative Bloq encapsulated this sentiment by acknowledging the game's strengths in RPG elements and player agency, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outer Worlds 2 impresses with its vibrant art and imaginative environments, receiving praise for its artistic direction and improved graphics thanks to Unreal Engine 5. Critics commend its colorful planets and enhanced animations, yet many highlight significant flaws, including uninspired design patterns, outdated technical performance, and a lack of liveliness in the open world. While visually appealing, the game struggles with graphical inconsistencies and depth, leaving room for improvement in its execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of The Outer Worlds 2 have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's vibrant art style and imaginative environments. Many reviewers, such as Gamekult and GamingBolt, praised the strong artistic direction, noting that the game features colorful, well-designed planets that enhance the storytelling experience. Critics like IGN Spain and Generación Xbox acknowledged notable improvements in graphics, particularly in lighting and character animations, contributing to a more immersive visual experience. The use of Unreal Engine 5 has been recognized by multiple reviewers, including MMORPG.com and COGconnected, who emphasized the stunning visuals and detailed environments that elevate the overall aesthetic of the game. However, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the game's visual design. DBLTAP criticized the uninspired visual design, with planets following a standard pattern that lacks the creativity expected from a sci-fi universe. Additionally, IGN Italia and GRYOnline.pl noted that while the art style is appealing, the technical performance feels outdated, with issues such as popping, low detail in environments, and inconsistent graphical quality. Critics like Noisy Pixel and RPG Site highlighted a lack of liveliness in the open world, describing it as feeling more like a stage set than a dynamic environment, which detracts from the immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Outer Worlds 2 boasts a vibrant and imaginative visual style, it falls short in technical execution and environmental richness. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and Eurogamer, appreciated the game's artistic direction and colorful aesthetics but echoed concerns about graphical inconsistencies and a lack of depth in the world design. The game is generally viewed as visually appealing but not groundbreaking, with room for improvement in technical performance and environmental liveliness, as noted by critics like TheSixthAxis and GamePro Germany.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outer Worlds 2 boasts engaging sound design and stellar voice acting, with critics praising its immersive radio system and humorous ads. However, many lament the forgettable soundtrack and technical audio issues, which detract from the overall experience. While the game excels in creating an engaging auditory atmosphere, it ultimately falls short on memorable musical moments, leaving players craving more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of The Outer Worlds 2 have received a mixed yet generally favorable response from critics, highlighting several positive aspects. Many reviewers praised the engaging sound design, with notable mentions from Combo Infinito and GamingTrend, who appreciated the immersive radio system that features catchy music and thematic advertisements, enhancing the exploration experience. The voice acting has also been highlighted as a strong point, with critics like MMORPG.com and Impulsegamer noting its exceptional quality, which adds depth to character interactions. Furthermore, some critics, such as Game Informer and Atomix, found the soundtrack to complement the game’s atmosphere effectively, even if it lacked memorability. The presence of humor in the radio commercials and music has been a recurring positive theme, with critics like XGN emphasizing how it contributes to the overall experience. On the downside, several critics pointed out that the soundtrack is often forgettable and lacks memorable tracks. GRYOnline.pl and Eurogamer Poland expressed disappointment in the music's inability to stand out, describing it as mostly ambient and repetitive, which detracts from the game's identity. Additionally, some reviewers, such as RPGamer and RPG Fan, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the soundtrack fails to leave a lasting impression, with the sound design not standing out as much as it could have. Technical issues, including audio mixing problems highlighted by IGN Italia, further marred the sound experience for some players, indicating that the audio design might not be fully polished. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Outer Worlds 2 excels in certain areas of sound design, particularly in voice acting and the integration of a humorous radio system, it falls short in delivering a memorable musical score. Critics like Gamekult and TechRadar Gaming noted that while the sound design is effective and immersive, the soundtrack does not leave a significant impact, which seems to be a common sentiment across multiple platforms. The game successfully creates an engaging auditory environment, but the lack of standout musical moments may leave some players wanting more from the overall audio experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outer Worlds 2 features praised voice acting that enhances character depth and narrative engagement, earning accolades for its comedic timing and emotional delivery from critics like Gamekult and Atomix. However, some reviews point out shortcomings, including flat performances due to weak writing and technical issues like dialogue cuts, which can detract from immersion. Overall, while the voice acting is a highlight, it faces criticism that suggests room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in The Outer Worlds 2 has been largely praised by critics across multiple platforms, highlighting its contribution to character depth and engagement. Gamekult emphasizes the high quality of the voice performances, which significantly enhance the overall narrative experience. Similarly, Atomix and Checkpoint Gaming commend the outstanding voice acting that brings characters to life, particularly noting its effectiveness in comedic moments. Many reviewers, including Game8 and Wccftech, agree that the voice acting is on par with the best in the genre, effectively conveying emotions and enhancing character interactions. The dynamic reactions of characters to player choices, as pointed out by PlayUA, further enrich the player's experience, making the voice acting a strong point of the game. However, not all opinions are as favorable. GRYOnline.pl notes that while the voice acting is competent, it suffers from a lack of standout performances due to the material provided, which limits expression. RPG Fan criticizes the voice acting for sounding flat and uninspired, suggesting that weak writing detracts from the performances. Additionally, RPGamer mentions technical issues such as dialogue cutting out, which can hamper immersion, while Metro GameCentral highlights the absence of a voiced main character, affecting some interactions. These criticisms indicate that while the voice acting is generally well-received, there are notable shortcomings that prevent it from being universally acclaimed. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a positive sentiment regarding the voice acting in The Outer Worlds 2, with many praising its quality and contribution to character development. The majority of reviews highlight strong performances that enhance the narrative, as seen in the opinions of critics like Impulsegamer and Gamer.no, who emphasize the depth and immersion provided by the voice acting. However, the presence of criticisms regarding material limitations and technical issues suggests that there is room for improvement. In conclusion, while the voice acting is a notable strength of the game, it is not without its flaws, and the overall experience may vary based on individual expectations and experiences.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outer Worlds 2 delivers solid performance on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X, with smooth gameplay and quick load times, but it's plagued by bugs, glitches, and performance issues. PC users face more frequent problems like FPS drops and AI inconsistencies, while PS5 and Xbox versions, though generally stable, suffer from quest bugs and crashes. Critics agree that while the game shows promise, further patches are essential to fix its technical flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of The Outer Worlds 2 has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms. On PC, several critics noted that the game performs well on moderate to high-end systems, with GameBlast highlighting smooth gameplay and reduced loading times, indicating solid optimization. PC Gamer also mentioned that while there are bugs and glitches, they are generally acceptable for an RPG experience. On the PlayStation 5, CGMagazine praised the game for its quick load times and stable frame rates, contributing to a polished experience. Similarly, Game Informer reported smooth performance despite some persistent bugs, while GamePro Germany noted the availability of different performance modes that enhance the overall experience. For Xbox Series X, critics like Generación Xbox emphasized the stable performance at 60 FPS and minimal loading times, showcasing solid optimization. Other reviews, such as those from Noisy Pixel and TechRadar Gaming, echoed the sentiment of a generally stable experience with few frame rate dips. However, the game is not without its issues across platforms. On PC, critics like Areajugones and Combo Infinito pointed out frequent loading screens, rendering delays, and FPS drops, particularly during intense scenes, which can disrupt immersion. GRYOnline.pl also noted problems with companion behavior and quest activations, further detracting from the experience. On the PS5, while many reviews were positive, RPGamer and RPG Fan highlighted numerous bugs and glitches that significantly hinder gameplay, including broken questlines. GamingTrend mentioned hard crashes and inconsistent animations as detractors from the overall experience. On Xbox Series X, while the performance was generally praised, critics like COGconnected and Final Weapon pointed out issues such as crashes and freezes that negatively impact gameplay, with GamersRD noting that technical performance is superior to the previous game but still has room for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that while The Outer Worlds 2 offers a solid technical foundation, it is marred by various bugs and performance issues. The PC version appears to have a wider range of technical problems, including AI inconsistencies and frame drops, as noted by multiple reviewers. In contrast, the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are generally seen as more stable, although they are not without their own set of issues, particularly regarding quest-related bugs and occasional crashes. The game demonstrates potential with its performance capabilities, but critics agree that further patches and optimizations will be necessary to enhance the overall experience and address the technical shortcomings highlighted in various reviews.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Outer Worlds 2 garners positive reviews for its character customization and impactful player choices, promising strong replay value through diverse paths and the Flaws system. However, some critics warn of repetitive quests and lack of meaningful consequences that could dampen motivation for multiple playthroughs. Overall, the game is viewed favorably for its potential to offer varied experiences, despite noted shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of The Outer Worlds 2 is largely positive, with many critics praising the game for its depth in character customization and the variety of choices available to players. Reviewers like Game8, Gameliner, and Final Weapon highlight the significant replay value stemming from diverse character builds and the impact of player decisions on the narrative. The game's open-ended nature is frequently mentioned, with critics such as Eurogamer Germany and PC Gamer noting that the multiple paths and branching narratives encourage players to explore different outcomes in subsequent playthroughs. Furthermore, the Flaws system and engaging RPG mechanics are seen as compelling reasons for players to revisit the game, as noted by IGN and Game Informer. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. A number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value being diminished due to a lack of meaningful choices and rewards. RPG Fan and GRYOnline.pl point out that the absence of significant consequences in side quests leads to a sense of tedium and a lack of motivation to explore off the beaten path. Eurogamer Poland echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the repetitive quest structures that contribute to a feeling of sameness across different playthroughs. Additionally, some reviewers, like GamingTrend and DBLTAP, mention the absence of traditional endgame content as a limitation that affects the desire for multiple playthroughs. Despite the mixed opinions, the overall consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the replay value in The Outer Worlds 2. While some reviewers highlight issues such as repetitive quests and a lack of meaningful choices, the majority, including critics from IGN, GamersRD, and MMORPG.com, recognize the game's potential for varied experiences through its character customization and choice-driven mechanics. This suggests that while there are areas for improvement, the game's design encourages exploration and experimentation, making it appealing for players looking to experience different narratives and gameplay styles.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding The Outer Worlds 2 showcases a blend of appreciation for its improvements and enjoyment of its core gameplay elements. Critics such as IGN, Game Informer, and GamingTrend highlight the game as a significant improvement over its predecessor, praising its engaging RPG mechanics, humor, and expanded scope. Windows Central and Gamekult also commend the title for its refined gameplay and rich narrative, suggesting that it successfully builds on the strengths of the original. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and IGN Spain emphasize the game’s ability to deliver a compelling RPG experience, with deep character customization and meaningful player choices, which resonate well with fans of the genre. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, including RPG Fan and RPGamer, express disappointment with the game’s inconsistent design and technical issues that detract from the overall experience. Critics like GRYOnline.pl and Eurogamer Poland describe it as a mediocre sequel that fails to innovate or captivate, leaving players wanting more. The narrative depth has also been called into question, with Push Square and DBLTAP noting that while the game has mechanical improvements, it lacks a compelling story and emotional resonance. These concerns collectively paint a picture of a title that, despite its fun elements, struggles with execution in certain areas. In summary, while The Outer Worlds 2 has garnered a range of positive feedback for its humor, gameplay enhancements, and RPG mechanics, it simultaneously faces significant critiques regarding its narrative depth and technical performance. The overall consensus among critics is mixed; while some, like Game Informer and TechRadar Gaming, view it as a solid sequel that appeals to both newcomers and veterans, others, such as RPGamer and VGC, see it as a disappointment that fails to meet expectations. This dichotomy suggests that while the game may resonate well with loyal fans of the series, it may not attract a broader audience due to its shortcomings.

TL;DR

The Outer Worlds 2 is praised for its improved RPG mechanics, humor, and engaging gameplay, marking a notable upgrade from its predecessor. However, critics highlight technical issues, inconsistent design, and a lack of narrative depth, leading to a mixed reception. While some see it as a solid sequel for fans, others deem it a disappointing follow-up that may struggle to attract new players.

MONSTER

Reviews

203 reviews found

Inverse

Xbox Series X

Oct 23, 2025