Summary
The Outer Worldstook the gaming community by storm when it debuted. As a role-playing game, it offers several ways to complete any given task, along with a fairly robust character creation system.The Outer Worldsisn’t meant to be difficult, and it instead focuses on highlighting Obsidian’s talent for player-driven narratives.
TheOuter Worlds’combination of tongue-in-cheek humor and spacefaring mystery drama captivated its players. Despite its uniqueness, there are plenty of other games that might scratch that Obsidianitch. What are some must-playgames similar toThe Outer Worlds?
Updated August 01, 2025, by Mark Sammut:The specifications have been added for all thegames like The Outer Worldsincluded in this discussion.
Stylistically and thematically,Pillars of Eternityis quite different fromThe Outer Worlds. ThePillarsseries are an old-school tribute to classic CRPGs likeBaldur’s GateandPlanescape.
Coming from the same studio, however, the choice-based gameplay is even more flexible than inThe Outer Worlds. Moreover, the writing is incredible and the game world has the kind of depth that can rival a sci-fi epic that spans universes. Interestingly, Obsidian’s next title is called Avowed which is a first-person open-world RPGset in the same universe asPillars of Eternity. Many of the gameplay elements found in The Outer Worlds will likely find their way into the studio’s next title.
Eidos Montreal’sGuardians of the Galaxyis one of the best superhero games available. It’s a far more linear take on the space adventure thanThe Outer Worldsbut thanks to its sense of humor and the incredible cast of characters can’t be missed by sci-fi fans.
The gameplay and mechanics fall somewhere betweenMass Effectand theUnchartedgames. There are lots of colorful and unique worlds to explore and the game dives deep into each character’s past. Moreover, it has arguably the best soundtrack of its generation, and it complements its team-based combat perfectly.
BioShockis rightfully hailed as one of the greatest games of all time, and its sequels are not too bad either. Set in the underwater city of Rapture, a decrepit utopia destroyed by its own greed and corruption, players step into the shoes of Jack, a plane crash survivor who winds up in the metropolis. Armed with the power-granting Plasmids and an array of guns, Jack must explore Rapture’s creepy but vibrant corridors in order to uncover the truth behind the city’s downfall, all the while trying to fight (or avoid) the terrifying Big Daddies.
Even thoughBioShockandThe Outer Worldsare ultimately very different, they share a somewhat similar aesthetic and some gameplay mechanics. They are also both well-written first-person shooters that feature RPG elements, although Obsidian’s game prioritizes the latter over its gunplay whileBioShockdoes the opposite.
The cartoony, 2D aesthetic, and slow pacing aside, there’s much that’s comparable to Obsidian’s RPG when it comes to this indie shooter. Both titles similarly stress run-down gadgetry and dark themes on a thematic level. ThisSteamWorld Digspinoff also emphasizes tactical combat for the bulk of the experience.
This is done through the use of precision aiming, tactical positioning, and tech-laden upgrades. Some deceptively tough gameplay and procedurally generated areas allow players to get a lot out of this one, despite its relatively short campaign.Outer Worldsfans looking for a unique, retro-style experience that still captures the essence of that title should look no further than this game from Image & Form.
While the hit shooterFar Cry 5also bears similarities toThe Outer Worlds, this narrative sequel should especially resonate with fans. The staples are still here, such as the diverse, open-world gameplay and gritty, hostile atmosphere. But Ubisoft also incorporates more tactical, RPG-like elements this time around, introducing an upgradable hub and more emphasis on crafting.
Inclusions like NPC specialists and unique abilities also add to theOuter Worldsvibe. This, combined with the game’s post-apocalyptic feel, gives it a sense of authenticity while still tapping into those traits that make theFar Cryseriesso appealing.
Colorful and funny,Journey to the Savage Planetis an absolute delight, provided someone enjoys a hint of cheese and a lot of platforming. Sent by their employer to check out a planet’s life forms, players are basically just a cog in the machine, albeit one that periodically must shoot alien creatures in the face. Similar toThe Outer Worlds,Journey to the Savage Planetincorporates first-person shooter gameplay as a secondary mechanic rather than a driving force, and it is also serviceable but nothing special.
Journey to the Savage Planetshines in its platforming, which starts out strong and progressively improves as new abilities and tools are unlocked. ARY-26, the planet, is not only overflowing with gorgeous vistas and quirky creatures but also quite diverse thanks to its unique biomes.
Eidos’Deus Exseries was a trailblazer when it came to the then-new concept of deep RPG shooters and immersive sims. Sinceits debut in 2000, the franchise has remained a cult classic thanks to its solid track record and uniquely deep, thrilling gameplay.
ThoughDeus Excontinues to trek along, this 2011 rendition stands out as a fan favorite for its gripping narrative and masterful blend of FPS, stealth, and RPG gameplay. TheOuter Worldsparallels of augmented humans, corporate dystopias, and a dark ambiance are apparent, as are the tactical gunfights. At the time, this game, andDeus Exat large, remains a distinct entity that’s authentically appealing.
From developer Arkane Studios, the studio behindDishonored, comesPrey.In the 2017 title,players assume the role of Morgan Yu when they are deceived into thinking they are on the planet Earth.
As reality kicks in, the player finds themself on a remote space station that is occupied by malevolent creatures. Arkane Studios are masters at creating immersive and reactive worlds that are shaped by the player’s actions. Plus,Prey’s sci-fi setting, weapons, and role-playing elements make it appealing to fans ofThe Outer Worlds.
It’s not surprising thatFallout: New Vegasmade this list since it was also developed by Obsidian Entertainment. Obsidian Entertainment is credited for making numerous role-playing games, andThe Outer Worldsis their latest hit franchise.
Fallout: New Vegasis one of Obsidian Entertainment’s most prized games. With a quirky sense of humor, a fantastic script, and the ability to slow down time in both games,The Outer WorldsandNew Vegasare more than just comparable, they almost seem like siblings.
CD Projekt Red’sCyberpunk 2077got off to a rough start, but the developer has done an impressive job of steadying the ship. Following a few updates and an expansion, the sci-fi open-world game is now in a good place, at least on current-gen hardware and PC. Set in Night City,Cyberpunk 2077immerses players in a futuristic world run by mega-corporations, cyber tech, and class disparity.
The game provides quite a bit of player freedom, both in terms of physical customization and character progression. Gameplay-wise,Cyberpunk 2077is a competent first-person shooter that shines through its build customization; however, likeThe Outer Worlds, the title’s main selling point is its storytelling.
