The Outer Worlds 2

Refined gameplay and excellent writing lose some charm of the original while first area feels stretched.

A solid sequel by Obsidian that improves over the first game with better companions, creative stat/perk/flaw system overhaul, and strong sandbox exploration. Rough opening hours and bugs at launch are offset by good replayability and 25-30 hours of content.

Strong sequel elevating the predecessor with deep RPG mechanics and meaningful choices.

Solid sequel with improved combat, better progression, and more interesting factions.

Strong sequel with better RPG depth and faction identity. Sharp satire but humor undermines stakes.

Strong first half with great exploration but second half loses momentum. Strong RPG of the year.

Dramatically larger better sequel with expansive reactive planets and S-tier itemization.

Brilliant exploitable RPG with excellent sci-fi world-building, strong character writing. Fun to play despite or because of exploits.

Strong refinement over original with improved combat, compelling build crafting, grounded political narrative. First act drags, enemy variety repetitive. RPG mechanics and companion system shine.