Obsidian Entertainment has confirmed it has no current plans to develop a third installment in its popular role-playing game series, The Outer Worlds. This decision follows the commercial performance of the upcoming sequel, The Outer Worlds 2, which reportedly failed to meet internal sales forecasts set for its 2025 release window.
The announcement was made by the studio’s leadership, indicating a strategic shift in focus. The information was first reported by industry publication GamesIndustry.biz, which cited statements from the developer.
Background on the Franchise
The original The Outer Worlds game was released in 2019 to positive critical reception. Published by Private Division, the title was praised for its narrative depth, player choice, and satirical take on corporate-dominated space colonization. Its success solidified Obsidian’s reputation for crafting compelling RPG experiences and led to the greenlighting of a direct sequel.
Development on The Outer Worlds 2 was officially announced in 2021. The sequel has been highly anticipated by fans of the original game’s unique blend of science fiction and social commentary. Specific sales targets for the 2025 sequel have not been publicly disclosed by Obsidian or its publisher, Microsoft, which acquired the studio in 2018.
Industry Context and Development Priorities
The video game industry frequently sees studios adjust their long-term project pipelines based on market performance and strategic goals. A decision to halt further development on a franchise after a sequel underperforms relative to expectations is not uncommon, though it often disappoints dedicated fan communities.
Obsidian Entertainment is currently engaged in multiple high-profile projects. The studio is actively supporting the successful fantasy RPG Avowed, set in the world of Eora, and is also developing the next major expansion for its long-running title, The Elder Scrolls Online. Resources are likely being allocated to these and other unannounced initiatives.
Reaction and Market Implications
While official statements have been factual and forward-looking, the news has generated discussion within gaming communities. Fans of the series have expressed disappointment on social media and gaming forums, hoping for future narrative closure for the universe established in the first game.
Analysts note that the decision reflects the competitive and data-driven nature of modern game publishing. With significant investment required for AAA development, publishers and studios increasingly rely on forecast models to determine where to allocate talent and capital for maximum return.
Looking Ahead for Obsidian
For now, Obsidian Entertainment’s public roadmap does not include any new titles set in The Outer Worlds universe. The studio’s immediate future is centered on the launch and post-launch support for its announced projects. The company has not commented on whether the intellectual property could be licensed to another developer or remain dormant indefinitely.
Official communications emphasize a continued commitment to the RPG genre and to delivering high-quality experiences to players. The focus remains on the studio’s current slate of games, with no further statements planned regarding The Outer Worlds franchise at this time.
Source: GamesIndustry.biz
