The Outer Worlds 2 marks Xbox's inaugural $80 game release, but physical editions will be available solely for PS5. Continue reading to explore Xbox's new pricing strategy and its transition toward an all-digital future for upcoming titles.
The Outer Worlds 2 Pricing and Physical Edition
Xbox’s First $80 Game Release
The Outer Worlds 2 represents Xbox's debut $80 game, with multiple online retailers listing its Standard Edition at $79.99. The Premium Edition is priced at $99.99, offering exclusive in-game content, upcoming story expansions, and five-day early access.
This pricing adjustment aligns with Microsoft's broader strategy to elevate product costs, as detailed in a May 1 website announcement. Xbox has revised recommended retail prices for consoles and controllers, and first-party games will adopt the $79.99 price point beginning this holiday season.
"We recognize these adjustments pose challenges and were carefully considered in light of market conditions and escalating development expenses. Moving forward, we remain committed to expanding gaming accessibility across devices and delivering lasting value to our community," Xbox explained.
Despite prior notice, players express frustration over persistent price increases across the gaming industry. Last week, Nintendo launched Switch 2 alongside Mario Kart World as its debut title, marking its first $80 game. In April, PlayStation raised PS5 prices in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. As industry leaders adopt similar pricing trends, consumers ultimately bear the impact of these changes.
The Outer Worlds 2 presentation during the June 8 Xbox Games Showcase highlighted Obsidian Entertainment's ambitious follow-up to its acclaimed sci-fi first-person shooter. However, Xbox's revised pricing approach may influence the game's reception at launch.
Physical Edition Exclusively for PS5
Xbox appears fully committed to digital distribution, as The Outer Worlds 2 will launch without physical discs. Gears of War: Reloaded and Ninja Gaiden 4 follow suit, though digital pre-orders for these titles are already live.
Surprisingly, these Xbox first-party games will receive physical PS5 editions. While Xbox hasn't formally confirmed abandoning physical media for future releases, this topic gained traction last month when DOOM: The Dark Ages shipped with merely 85 MB on its game disc, sparking player backlash.
Time will reveal whether Xbox's digital-focused strategy resonates with gamers. Nonetheless, fans eagerly anticipate The Outer Worlds 2's continuation of the series' signature corporate-dystopian satire, while drawing inspiration from Obsidian's beloved RPG masterpiece, Fallout: New Vegas.
The Outer Worlds 2 launches October 29 on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. For ongoing updates, explore our detailed coverage below!
