The Outer Worlds 2 came to play at Opening Night Live with a trailer highlighting the six characters that will be joining players. While Microsoft and Gamescom had previously confirmed The Outer Worlds 2 would already be there, it's hard to deny the hype behind the title. The first game was a succinct first-person RPG, and while the second one seems to add more depth to its features, fans can expect it to respect their time all the same.

For the uninitiated, The Outer Worlds 2 takes place in the colony of Arcadia, as opposed to Halcyon, meaning a brand new story, brand new characters, and a brand new protagonist. Players work for the Earth Directorate, arriving in Arcadia to investigate rifts in time and space. At the same time, Arcadia finds itself caught up in a war between the Protectorate and Auntie's Choice, a totalitarian government and megacorporation, respectively. It is with this backdrop that players arrive in Arcadia and, ultimately, the backdrop of its showcase at Gamescom Opening Night Live.

Joining players are Niles, Tristan, Valerie, Aza, Inez, and Marisol, all of whom are highlighted in the Gamescom trailer. A little bit about what they represent is also highlighted, while players get a good look at their overarching personalities. Ending on a bit of wit, the trailer does point out that none of these companions can be romanced. Niles is an Earth Directorate Agent, Valerie is an automech support drone, and Marisol is an assassin (useful in corporate warfare). Aza is a cultist, Inez is a combat medic experimented on by Auntie's Choice, and Tristian is a Protector arbiter (judge, jury, and executioner). An eclectic bunch, but that's to be expected.

Outer Worlds 2 Companions List

  • Niles
  • Valerie
  • Aza
  • Inez
  • Marisol
  • Tristan

While some may take the self-mockery as a joke on them, it's worth pointing out that many gamers often ask if companions in an Obsidian game can be romanced. Historically, that answer has always been no. Romance is a popular RPG feature, but not one Obsidian has ever embraced, so it's more of a mockery of the situation than the desire.

Ultimately, The Outer Worlds 2 will be a day-one Xbox Game Pass game when it releases on October 29, while it'll also be available on PS5 consoles. This marks the third release for Obsidian this year, following Avowed and the early access release of Grounded 2. Many have called Obsidian a powerhouse for Microsoft, and assuming The Outer Worlds 2 sticks the landing, it's clear why that's the case.

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The Outer Worlds 2 Tag Page Cover Art
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Top Critic Avg: 82 /100 Critics Rec: 87%
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Released
October 29, 2025
ESRB
Mature 17+ / Intense Violence, Blood and Gore, Strong Language
Developer(s)
Obsidian Entertainment
Publisher(s)
Xbox Game Studios
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The Outer Worlds 2 Press Image 1
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WHERE TO PLAY

SUBSCRIPTION
DIGITAL
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Engine
Unreal Engine 5
Genre(s)
RPG, Shooter, Adventure