The Outer Worlds 2 dates its first story DLC for December 2

Obsidian has announced Side Effects Guaranteed, the first story expansion for The Outer Worlds 2, for December 2. Revealed on November 10, the DLC begins a two-part narrative rather than delivering both planned chapters at once.

The expansion introduces Elysium Valley, a region on Eden where a criminal crew's search for a cure becomes entangled with competing interests. Character progression also expands: the level cap rises from 30 to 36, with 15 new perks and four new flaws.

A new-game option will create a custom save at the DLC's starting point. Obsidian plans the second chapter for spring 2027 and says decisions from the first will carry forward. The expansion announcement.

Xbox's game page lists a pass for two story expansions among the Premium Edition's contents. Its upgrade terms separately require access to the base game through ownership or an eligible Game Pass membership. Players should therefore check their existing edition and entitlements before making another purchase. A subscription that provides access to the original game should not be assumed to include every expansion. Official game and edition details.

The base game centers on an Earth Directorate agent investigating destructive rifts in Arcadia, with choices involving factions and companions. Against that background, the expansion's alternate starting point offers a practical way to revisit character-building decisions without relying on the same campaign save. The announced December date remains upcoming as of November 11; this is a preview of the publisher's plans, not a review of the finished DLC.