Your name is ____. You have been cryogenically frozen for decades. And then, you’re not. Thawed out after getting saved, though some might consider it kidnapped, you’ve been liberated by a scientist named Phineas Wells.

By Wyatt Meffert

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Dr. Wells is considered an outlaw by the ruling body of this solar system, Halcyon, by a group of corporate overlords known as The Board. You’re not wanted though, and that’s what’s important. No, you get a fresh start. No one recognizes you as one of the long lost colonists of the conveniently forgotten colony ship Hope.

There isn’t much hope for Wells’ mission though. He seeks to retrieve key medical equipment and weaponry in order to save Halcyon from indentured servitude and societal collapse brought about by the Board. However, there is hope in you, the fresh-faced newcomer. Through your time in Outer Worlds you’ll infiltrate organizations, make allies with unwitting and witting people of small and large status, and explore strange and wondrous places. Your goal can be to save your fellow colonists frozen up on the Hope, or you can watch the planets burn and leave your peers to their fate, the choice is yours.

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There is more than one path in this game, but right now I’m on the “good” path. I generally like the idea of helping people, especially those under the foot of mega corporations. In all the settlements I’ve come across, no one seems to have the freedom to eat, purchase what they want, or even live where they please. If they break their contracts they run the risk of docked pay, harsher contracts, relocation, imprisonment, or banishment. In short, they need help.

As far as dealing with the Board when I’ve come across their agents, there are politics to manage that sometimes require a deft touch. Other times it’s a hammer. I guess you could always use a hammer, but that might result in unnecessary destruction and death. Your choice!

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Initial Verdict:

Besides some technical issues, like crashes and screen tearing when I have a G-Sync monitor (so no vertical sync toggle required) and occasional crashes (save often!) I’ve found the game very enjoyable. 

Its decent combat system is oddly enhanced by the dialogue system and talents; a pleasant surprise. That will be discussed more in my upcoming review. Speaking of its dialogue, it’s the game’s highlight, but that’s no surprise as developer Obsidian has a long history of strong characters and the like. I just hope that the technical issues get patched before I finish this game.

I’m well past the first settlement. Things are speeding up as I’m acquiring more combat, tech, and dialogue skills, filling my ship up with crew members, and making progress with Dr. Wells. So far this looks like it will be a high-quality experience all the way through. I can’t wait to see what improvements my character will bring to the lives of The Outer Worlds’ company men and women.

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