Outer Worlds 2 Launches at $80, PS5 Exclusives Added

The Outer Worlds 2 marks Xbox's debut $80 game, though physical copies will solely be available on PS5. Discover more about Xbox's new pricing strategy and their shift toward an all-digital future.

The Outer Worlds 2 Pricing and Physical Availability

Xbox's First $80 Game

The Outer Worlds 2 will be Xbox's inaugural $79.99 title, with its Standard Edition confirmed at this price across multiple retailers. The $99.99 Premium Edition offers early access, expansions, and bonus content.

This pricing aligns with Microsoft's May 1 announcement about adjusting product costs. The update revealed increased retail prices for Xbox consoles, controllers, and upcoming first-party games starting this holiday season.

"We recognize these adjustments may be difficult," Xbox stated. "Our decisions reflect current market conditions and rising development costs while maintaining our commitment to delivering value across all platforms."

The gaming community continues expressing frustration over industry-wide price increases. Following Nintendo's $80 Mario Kart World and PlayStation's regional PS5 price hikes, Xbox joins this trend, passing development costs onto players.

Though Obsidian Entertainment's June 8 showcase highlighted The Outer Worlds 2's promising sci-fi RPG sequel, Xbox's pricing strategy may influence its reception at launch.

PS5 Exclusivity for Physical Copies

Xbox appears fully committed to digital distribution, as The Outer Worlds 2 won't receive physical Xbox releases—joining Gears of War: Reloaded and Ninja Gaiden 4 in this approach.

Surprisingly, PlayStation 5 will host physical editions for these Xbox Studios titles. While Microsoft hasn't officially abandoned discs entirely, last month's DOOM: The Dark Ages controversy—featuring an 85MB physical disc—sparked intense debate.

Time will tell whether Xbox's digital-first strategy resonates with players. Meanwhile, fans eagerly anticipate Obsidian's signature satirical storytelling, blending corporate dystopia with Fallout: New Vegas-inspired RPG mechanics.

The Outer Worlds 2 launches October 29 for Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC. Stay updated on the latest developments through our coverage below.