Obsidian Entertainment has confirmed that Side Effects Guaranteed, the first DLC for The Outer Worlds 2, will be released on December 2. This expansion introduces a new narrative adventure continuing just before the game’s point of no return and is set to affect all platforms where the game is available.
The DLC centres on responding to a distress signal from a derelict ship, leading players into a power struggle involving the Sub Rosa criminal organisation and a team afflicted by a fatal condition known as explosive cell death. The story promises moral choices and consequences that shape the unfolding events.
New weapons, perks and region accompany the story expansion
Side Effects Guaranteed adds five new weapons to the game, including the Immobilizer, which suspends targets mid-air to facilitate strategic combat, and the 1/6 Resolver, a firearm delivering enhanced damage every sixth shot. Other additions include a weapon effective against creatures, a unique Tossball Stick, and a plasma energy weapon. Alongside these, the DLC raises the level cap to 36 and introduces new perks and flaws for character customisation.
Players will also gain access to a new location called Elysium Valley, which contains unique quests and facilities. Additionally, the DLC adds a Sub Rosa radio station featuring 20 new tracks. According to Obsidian, these content updates are designed to expand on the base game experience while encouraging players to make impactful decisions within the narrative.
Accessibility features and upcoming respec update
For players wishing to jump directly into the new content, the DLC offers a pre-made character option at level 27, accessible from the main menu. This character can be customised with skill points and perks, allowing immediate engagement with the Side Effects Guaranteed content without requiring progression through the main game.
Coinciding with the DLC launch, an update will enable players to respec their characters at any time, providing greater flexibility in character development. The update also introduces a custom game option to adjust skill point allocation per level, which may alter progression balance according to player preference.
Side Effects Guaranteed serves as the first part of a two-part story expansion campaign, with the second instalment scheduled for release in spring 2027. The DLC is included in The Outer Worlds 2 Premium Edition and as an upgrade, ensuring availability to players who have purchased these editions.
