Outward 2 was announced at Tokyo Game Show, and there are so many things to cover. If you're eager to know more, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before it gets out, including the Outward 2 release date, new gameplay mechanics, how to wishlist it, and more.
Outward 2 Release Date - When Is It Coming Out?
The Outward 2 release date is set for Summer 2026. This announcement was the centerpiece of the game's reveal during the Tokyo Game Show. The sequel will be available on PC via Steam, with additional platforms to be confirmed.
How to register for the playtest
To gain access to the Outward 2 playtest, be sure to wishlist the game on Steam and register for the chance to try it out before others. To participate in the Outward 2 playtest, visit the Nine Dot Studio official site and register by following the step-by-step instructions.
Related: 10 Best RPGs on Xbox Game Pass
Outward 2 New Features - What's New in the Sequel?
Based on the official announcement, here are the some of the new and improved key features coming to the game, including the gallery with the latest in-game images.
1. A More Dynamic and Living World
The Outward 2 world of Aurai will feature a full-year seasonal cycle that actively changes the gameplay. Expect frozen rivers to become traversable in winter, merchants to relocate, and different biomes, such as the Gilded Mountains or the acid-rain-soaked Gathes of Catharsis, to present unique, season-specific challenges.
2. Exercise System With Passive Skills
A new Exercise system will make character progression more organic. Instead of just spending points, your character will develop passive skills based on your actual playstyle. If you use heavy armor and a mace, your character will naturally become better suited for that style, reinforcing your tactical choices.
3. Ritual Spellcasting and Major Combat Improvements
Magic is more impactful and deliberate. Players will cast spells through rituals, such as placing a firestone to create a ring of flames that empowers their skills. The combat system has been completely overhauled, featuring more fluid animations, distinct weapon movesets, and a greater variety of tools, directly addressing feedback from the original Outward.
4. Intentional Inventory Management (Now with a Mule!)
Your backpack is still your lifeline, but now you can earn a mule to help carry your wares. This adds a new strategic layer, as you must protect your vulnerable pack animal while on expeditions. The core loop of carefully managing supplies and dropping your pack in a fight remains crucial.
5. Expanded Character Origins
Your journey begins with more depth thanks to three distinct starting scenarios and eleven backgrounds. Whether you start as a miner worshipping Elatt or a vagrant in Simeon’s Bastion, your origin will significantly shape your early game experience and the unique "defeat scenarios" you encounter.
6. Two-Player Split-Screen and Online Co-op
The beloved co-op feature returns, allowing you and a friend to tackle the brutal world of Aurai together in both online and local split-screen co-op. Teamwork is more important than ever for covering weaknesses and combining strengths.
Outward 2 Trailer
The official debut trailer for Outward 2 was unveiled during the Tokyo Game Show. While primarily a cinematic teaser, it establishes the gritty tone and harsh world of Aurai that fans of the original game will recognize.
Outward 2 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Outward 2 release date is set for Summer 2026.
While PC via Steam is confirmed, other platforms, such as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, are highly likely to be announced soon.
Outward 2 is the sequel to the original Outward, which surpassed 3 million players. It's an open-world RPG that demands practice, persistence, and tactical execution.
Learn more about Outward 2 by following its devs, Nine Dots Studio, on X @NineDotStudio, Facebook NineDotsStudio, Instagram ninedots_studio, and TikTok @ninedotsstudio. You can also visit the official Outward 2 website.
While you wait for Outward 2 release, check out the list of 10 Best RPGs, here on Pro Game Guides.
Nebojša Prijić is a Managing Editor at Pro Game Guides with over 25 years of experience in journalism, screenwriting, and copywriting. He previously worked as Editor-in-Chief of Maxim Serbia magazine and the IGN Adria website. Nebojša is an old-school gamer who loves real-time strategies, shooters, and RPGs, but most of all, he plays Roblox and mobile games with his son. He remembers the first Diablo, PC games on a single floppy disk, and playing Mortal Kombat on the keyboard.