The Outer Worlds 2 will not include a respec feature, reinforcing the importance of player decisions. Discover the developers' design philosophy and how this choice honors players' commitment.
No Respec in The Outer Worlds 2
Player Choices Carry Weight
The Outer Worlds 2 retains the series' retro-futuristic sci-fi aesthetic but removes a common RPG feature: character respec. In a June 21 interview with RPG Site, Game Director Brandon Adler confirmed the omission of this mechanic.
Respecialization, or "respec," lets players reset their character's skill points and attributes to alter their build. The original Outer Worlds included this through the "Vocational Competence Respecification Machine" aboard the ship. The development team, however, has intentionally discarded this system for a purpose.
Adler explained that the team aims to highlight the significance of player decisions, influencing gameplay and strategy. He noted, "I want players to recognize their choices are permanent—they have consequences—so they consider them more carefully."
The objective is to deliver a genuine RPG experience where choices truly shape the journey. Adler elaborated, "Many games allow unlimited respec, but that undermines role-playing. You’re not embodying a character if you can switch from a long-range sniper to a persuasive speaker on a whim."
Although Adler wasn’t involved in the first Outer Worlds, his RPG background includes work on Alpha Protocol, Pillars of Eternity, and Fallout: New Vegas—a major influence on the sequel.
He acknowledged that this design shift may split the community but stood by the decision. Adler emphasized that while liking respec isn’t wrong, the team is committed to their vision.
"For The Outer Worlds 2, I want to ensure robust role-playing. You build your character and commit—role-playing should permeate the entire experience," Adler added.
Players can test different builds early on, but after that, their choices are final. Menus also offer detailed perk and ability descriptions to help players plan ahead.
Valuing Player Time
With the game on Game Pass, players can try it casually. However, those purchasing later might not grasp the impact of their initial choices. Adler was straightforward: this doesn’t affect their goal of creating an engaging, fun game.
He reaffirmed that every decision should feel meaningful, and sticking to this principle respects players' time. Adler stated, "We tell you your choices matter—and we back that up with meaningful consequences. That’s how we respect your investment."
This approach may limit broad appeal, but Adler accepts that trade-off. He hopes players will give the game a chance but insists that compromising their vision would "dilute the experience significantly."
"We want to create a game with lasting appeal, but not every game suits everyone. Sometimes you have to choose your direction," he remarked.
The Outer Worlds 2 sets itself apart by emphasizing consequential decisions through the absence of respec. Whether this design wins over the community remains to be seen, but the developers are confident it enhances the RPG immersion.
It's also uncertain if pricing the game at $80—Xbox's first at that tier—is the right move. The Outer Worlds 2 launches on October 29 for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. For the latest updates, see our article below!
