The Outer Worlds 2: A Closer Look at the Development Process

The announcement of the sequel to the satirical space RPG, The Outer Worlds 2, back in 2021 generated quite a buzz among gamers. However, since then, updates on the progress of the game have been scarce. Developers Obsidian have been focusing on other projects such as Avowed and Grounded. Despite this, Obsidian’s studio head, Feargus Urquhart, reassures fans that The Outer Worlds 2 is still on track.

Challenges During the Covid Pandemic

Urquhart’s recent interview sheds light on the challenges faced during the Covid pandemic. There were discussions within the studio about reallocating resources from The Outer Worlds 2 to Avowed due to the uncertainties brought about by the pandemic. The acquisition of the studio in 2018 added another layer of complexity to this situation.

Despite the hurdles faced by the team, Obsidian decided to persevere and continue working on The Outer Worlds 2. Urquhart acknowledges that there were difficulties during this period, with the studio experiencing a dip in performance for a year and a half. However, the team remained committed to their projects and managed to overcome these challenges.

One of the key takeaways from Urquhart’s interview is the importance of effectively managing multiple projects simultaneously. Obsidian had to juggle various titles like Avowed, Grounded, and The Outer Worlds 2, along with other smaller projects. The decision to stick with their original plans, despite the temptation to reallocate resources, speaks volumes about the team’s dedication.

Looking Towards the Future

As Obsidian continues to work on The Outer Worlds 2, they are also laying the groundwork for future projects. The experience gained from developing Avowed and the upcoming sequel will serve as a foundation for their next generation of games. Urquhart emphasizes the use of third-party tools like Unreal Engine to streamline the development process and improve efficiency.

While the first Outer Worlds received mixed reviews, there is optimism surrounding the sequel. With Urquhart expressing confidence in the team and the progress of The Outer Worlds 2, fans can look forward to an improved and more engaging experience. As Obsidian navigates the challenges of game development in a post-pandemic world, their commitment to quality and innovation remains unwavering. As they continue to push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay, the future looks promising for The Outer Worlds franchise.