Outward 2 Early Access Delayed to 2027 as Nine Dots Studio Responds to Beta Feedback
Outward 2 will no longer enter early access on July 7. Developer Nine Dots Studio has confirmed that the open-world survival action RPG sequel has been delayed, with its early access launch now planned for sometime in 2027.
The studio has not yet shared a specific release window, but more details are expected to be announced later. When Outward 2 does arrive, it will be available on Windows PC through Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store.
The delay comes shortly after the launch of an open beta, which gave players an early look at the next adventure in Aurai. According to Nine Dots Studio, the decision was made after reviewing player feedback and taking an honest look at the current state of the game.
The team explained that sticking to the original release date would risk launching a version of Outward 2 that may not meet player expectations. Since the beta was meant to gather feedback, the studio says it is choosing to act on that feedback rather than push ahead with a release that might feel unfinished.
Nine Dots Studio acknowledged that the announcement may feel sudden, especially after recently promoting a summer release window. The studio also apologized to fans who had planned their summer around the July 7 early access launch.
Guillaume Boucher-Vidal, CEO and Creative Director at Nine Dots Studio, said the team understands the disappointment but believes delaying the game is the better choice. He noted that it would be worse for players to spend their vacation with a version of the game they were not satisfied with.
The developer also addressed the challenge of deciding how polished an early access release should be. While early access games are expected to evolve over time, Nine Dots Studio wants Outward 2 to feel strong enough to justify asking players to pay for it. The goal is to make the jump from beta to early access feel significant and meaningful.
The studio emphasized that the original Outward succeeded because of its dedicated community, and it wants returning players to feel confident and excited about supporting the sequel. Rather than rush the launch, the team plans to use the extra development time to improve stability, quality, and the overall player experience.
Outward 2 is the follow-up to the cult-favorite survival RPG known for its challenging exploration, demanding combat, and immersive world design. Like the first game, the sequel is expected to focus on adventure, preparation, survival systems, and player-driven discovery rather than traditional power-fantasy progression.
For fans eagerly waiting to return to Aurai, the delay is disappointing news. However, Nine Dots Studio is presenting it as a necessary setback that will allow the team to deliver a stronger and more polished early access release in 2027.
