Outward 2 Open Beta now Live on Steam

Developer Nine Dots Studio has released an open beta for their upcoming challenging action RPG Outward 2. Those on Steam can play the open beta from now until June 22, 2026.

The open beta is simply the closed beta from a few weeks back, as they've opened the doors to anyone eager to try out this version of the game. The game has a variety of dungeons to explore, tough enemy types, and co-op features like online and split-screen co-op available.

Outward 2 Open Beta is really a beta

I won't sugarcoat this one. The open beta is truly a beta version of the game, meaning there are a variety of technical issues and missing features. This version of Outward 2 will feel a bit rough. Based on what I've been playing since I got access to the closed beta, optimization issues can show up randomly with frame rate being inconsistent.

Newcomers will also be a bit confused by the state of the game, as some features you'd expect from an action RPG are actually intentional design choices rather than missing content.

For instance, there's no fast travel at all in this game. You will have to plan accordingly to manage thirst and hunger before heading out of town, and have enough inventory space for any key items you'd like to bring home. When you die, you respawn back at your starting town with your bag left behind where you fell.

It's tough for a reason. The game intentionally doesn't hold your hand as you're pretty much expected to figure things out yourself, just like the first game. The tutorial is a bit barebones as well, so patience is key to appreciating what the developers are trying to accomplish here.

It can be rewarding, but also frustrating for some. Outward was a divisive game when it released years ago, but those who loved it appreciated how it captured a genuine sense of adventure with enough challenge to make progress feel earned. Outward 2 has these elements in check to deliver the same experience, but on a much bigger scale. Character progression is also deeper with the Exercise system, which rewards players with breakthrough points for simply performing certain actions.

This is all in preparation for Outward 2's early access launch on July 7. The developers are listening to feedback, so playing now will greatly help its development.

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About the Author - Carlos Hernandez

Carlos Hernandez is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Too Much Gaming, where he writes about video games, reviews, and industry news. A lifelong gamer, he would do anything to experience Final Fantasy Tactics for the first time again and has a love/hate relationship with games that require hunting for new gear to improve your character.