In a surprising turn of events, The Outer Worlds 2 will not launch at the controversial $80 price point after all. Obsidian Entertainment has officially announced a permanent price reduction for the highly anticipated sequel, setting it at a more player-friendly $69.99. This decision comes just months before the game's scheduled October release and marks a significant shift in Microsoft's pricing strategy for first-party titles.

The gaming community has been vocal about rising game prices, especially with major titles like Borderlands 4 and Grand Theft Auto 6 testing higher price points. Obsidian found itself at the center of this debate when it initially revealed The Outer Worlds 2 would launch at $79.99 following the Xbox Games Showcase. The studio appears to have listened to player feedback, working with Microsoft to adjust the pricing structure.

On July 23, Obsidian made the official announcement across its social media platforms, confirming the new $69.99 price point. This aligns with the current AAA game pricing standard and suggests Microsoft may be willing to make concessions regarding its previously announced $80 pricing strategy for first-party titles. Game director Brandon Adler had previously clarified that the initial pricing decision rested with Xbox, not Obsidian.

The studio's announcement came with characteristic humor: "Dear Galactic Citizens! We have received your SOS via skip drone about the pricing. As an organization devoted to making sure that corporations do not go unfettered, we at the Earth Directorate have worked with [REDACTED] to revise the price of The Outer Worlds 2."

For players who had already pre-ordered the game at the higher price, Obsidian has confirmed they will be eligible for a $10 refund. Alternatively, they can cancel and reorder at the new price. It's worth noting that The Outer Worlds 2 will still be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one, offering another affordable way to experience the game.