Obsidian Entertainment has announced that The Outer Worlds 2’s first DLC, Side Effects Guaranteed, will launch on December 2. The expansion is the first part of a two-part story, with the second instalment scheduled for spring 2027. It will introduce a new region, additional weapons and several gameplay changes.
The story begins when the player and their crew investigate a distress signal from an abandoned ship. Their investigation leads them to a deserted settlement, where a conflict over control of the Sub Rosa criminal organisation is taking place. They also encounter a group of people suffering from a condition that causes their cells to break down, eventually killing them.
The expansion introduces Elysium Valley, a new area containing quests and facilities to explore. Players will also have access to five additional weapons, including the Immobilizer, which suspends enemies in the air by removing the effects of gravity around them. It can be combined with grenades or Tactical Time Dilation to deal additional damage.
Another weapon, the 1/6 Resolver, delivers a more powerful shot with every sixth bullet fired. Depending on their character build, players may be able to trigger this effect without firing six consecutive rounds. The remaining additions include a weapon that deals extra damage to creatures, a special Tossball Stick and a plasma weapon.
Side Effects Guaranteed also raises the level cap to 36 and introduces new perks and flaws. A new Sub Rosa radio station will feature 20 additional songs.
Players can access the expansion through their existing save shortly before the main game’s point of no return. Alternatively, a new option on the main menu allows them to begin the DLC directly with a pre-made level 27 character. Skill points and perks can then be assigned before starting.
Obsidian is also releasing a free update alongside the DLC that introduces character respec options, allowing players to redistribute their character’s abilities at any time. Custom game settings will also receive an option to adjust the number of skill points earned per level.
Choices made during Side Effects Guaranteed will carry consequences into the second part of the expansion, which is planned for spring 2027.
The Outer Worlds 2: Side Effects Guaranteed launches December 2 and is included with the game’s Premium Edition and Premium Edition Upgrade.
