Developer Nine Dots Studio has officially announced that Outward 2 will be launching for PC via Steam in the summer of 2026. This exciting news was accompanied by the release of a new trailer, showcasing the game’s immersive world and gameplay features. In a press release, Guillaume Boucher-Vidal, the CEO and creative director of Nine Dots Studio, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “With Outward 2, we finally have the means to deliver the vision we had for the game—a believable and grounded adventurer experience.”
Boucher-Vidal emphasized the studio's commitment to improving key elements of the game, including the combat system, immersion, and character creator. He reflected on the journey since the inception of the original Outward in 2015, which began with a successful Kickstarter campaign. “We wanted to create the ultimate simulation of an adventurer’s life,” he noted, highlighting the dedicated efforts of their small team of 11. The original game resonated with players, surpassing three million users earlier this month, and they intend to build upon that success.
The original Outward distinguished itself from typical open-world RPGs by prioritizing preparation, persistence, and tactical execution over the usual power fantasy. Outward 2 aims to enhance this formula, introducing new features and improvements while retaining the core principles that attracted its dedicated community.
In Outward 2, players will not start as legendary heroes but as ordinary individuals. You can shape your character’s origins through three distinct starting scenarios and eleven backgrounds, each influencing your journey in the unforgiving world of Aurai. Whether you choose to be a devout worshipper of Elatt seeking wealth as a miner or a vagrant in Simeon’s Bastion, the world will present numerous challenges, even in defeat. If you are knocked out, your adventure continues with real consequences, including potential theft or rescue by a stranger.
A Living, Evolving WorldThe world of Aurai features a full-year seasonal cycle, affecting gameplay significantly. Merchants and NPCs will relocate, and environmental changes will create new challenges. Players will encounter diverse biomes, from the blizzards of the Gilded Mountains to the acid rains of the Gathes of Catharsis, ensuring a fresh experience on every journey.
Growth Through MasteryEvery aspect of Outward 2 is designed to influence your playstyle. Players can expect an Exercise system that allows passive skills to develop based on their actions in the game. By seeking out special trainers throughout Aurai, players can learn to survive the most brutal encounters, enhancing their adventure.
Ritual Spellcasting and Tactical CombatMagic in Outward 2 is a strategic endeavor, requiring players to engage in ritualistic spellcasting. For instance, players can send a fire stone into the air to create a ring that empowers their skills. The combat system has been significantly enhanced, featuring a broader array of tools and weapon combinations, along with refined animations for more fluid and controlled gameplay. Major improvements have been made based on extensive player feedback from the original game.
Intentional Inventory ManagementYour backpack in Outward 2 serves as a crucial lifeline. Players must carefully manage their inventory, balancing provisions, potions, weapons, and camping gear. As you gather items, be mindful of space, as some discoveries may not justify the weight. Players can also earn a mule to assist with carrying items, but this addition comes with its own vulnerabilities.
Two-Player Split Screen and Online Cooperative PlayAurai is a challenging environment, and players don’t have to face it alone. Outward 2 introduces cooperative gameplay, allowing players to team up in split-screen or online modes. Collaborating with a friend can help cover weaknesses and maximize strengths, enhancing the overall adventure experience.
Don't miss the opportunity to see the new trailer for Outward 2 below. Get ready to embark on your journey in the summer of 2026!
