Nine Dots Studio has finally announced when we can expect the release of their highly anticipated sequel. In Outward 2, the developers aim to capture the wonder of discovering new creatures and biomes while staying true to the original.

Aurai, the land you will be traversing, is inspired by North America’s First Nations. Exploration is deliberately grounded. This narrative choice meant to spark a spirit of discovery in players. Immersion takes center stage, whether you play solo or co-op with a friend. Keeping with this tone, the team has integrated spiritual traditions inspired by historical nations throughout Outward 2. Creatures like the mythical Wendigo are just a glimpse of that mythos.

Before uncovering more about the Wendigo, however, you will first journey across the game’s snowy tundra. Players will need to raise tents influenced by both American and Mongolian designs, reflecting the harsh conditions of survival. The biomes themselves also draw from these regions, with touches of Nepal and arid deserts sprinkled in. Without fast travel or mounts, exploration carries a keen sense of realism.

To face the Wendigo and other mythical creatures, players will need to obtain powerful weapons and armor. Bearded axes, hammers, shields, swords, and even chakram can be wielded, while fur armor reinforces the game’s cultural influences. Combat is not limited to weapons alone: traps, skills, and even food all play an active role in survival.

Outward 2 is slated for release in the summer of 2026, and the developers have announced that registration for the first playtest is now available on their website and on Steam.