Exploring the Cosmos: Top 5 Alternatives to "The Outer Worlds"

"The Outer Worlds" has set a high standard for sci-fi RPGs. Its unique blend of gameplay mechanics, narrative depth, and richly detailed settings have left players yearning for more. Yet while we wait for its sequel, there are plenty of alternative games that offer similar experiences in terms of gameplay, story, and setting. Here are our top five picks.

1. Mass Effect Series

Gameplay, Story and Setting:

The Mass Effect series is an iconic space opera trilogy developed by BioWare. It offers immersive role-playing with a deep storyline heavily influenced by player decisions and interactions. The series features real-time third-person shooting mechanics combined with squad-based strategy elements. Players can customize their characters with different skills and abilities to suit their preferred playstyle. Mass Effect's narrative revolves around Commander Shepard's mission to save the galaxy from a race of advanced machines known as the Reapers. The story spans across three games and is praised for its depth, character development, and branching paths based on player choices. The Mass Effect universe is richly detailed with various alien races, planets to explore, and lore that adds depth to its world-building. This makes it not only one of the best alternatives to The Outer Worlds but also one of the greatest sci-fi RPGs ever made.

2. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

Gameplay, Story and Setting:

Developed by BioWare, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR) is an epic RPG set in George Lucas' Star Wars universe four thousand years before the rise of the Galactic Empire. KOTOR features turn-based combat where players can control up to three characters at once. It also implements an alignment system that changes based on player decisions, affecting character development and story progression. The game's story centers around a Sith Lord, Darth Malak, who unleashes a Sith armada against the Republic. The player character is a customizable Republic soldier who gradually learns of their potent Force powers. In terms of setting, KOTOR explores various iconic Star Wars locales and introduces new planets. Its engaging narrative combined with the rich Star Wars lore makes it an excellent alternative for The Outer Worlds fans.

3. Fallout: New Vegas

Gameplay, Story and Setting:

Fallout: New Vegas is another RPG gem from Obsidian Entertainment, the same developers behind The Outer Worlds. It's set in a post-apocalyptic retro-futuristic Las Vegas following the Great War between the U.S., China, and their allies. The gameplay revolves around first-person shooting mechanics mixed with RPG elements like dialogue options, branching narratives, and character customization. The story follows the Courier who gets ambushed while delivering a package to New Vegas. After surviving death, they embark on a journey to find their assailant and recover the stolen package while getting entangled in conflicts between factions vying for control over New Vegas. With its post-apocalyptic setting filled with quirky characters and morally grey choices, Fallout: New Vegas offers a similarly immersive experience as The Outer Worlds.

4. Deus Ex: Human Revolution

Gameplay, Story and Setting:

Deus Ex: Human Revolution is a cyberpunk-themed action RPG from Eidos Montreal that combines first-person shooting with stealth mechanics. Players control Adam Jensen, an augmented security consultant equipped with various high-tech gadgets and abilities that can be upgraded to adapt to different playstyles. Gameplay involves exploration of dense urban environments, combat or stealth-based encounters, and conversations that can affect story outcomes. The narrative explores themes of transhumanism as Jensen investigates a conspiracy behind the augmentation technology in 2027. The setting is a dystopian future where society is divided by their views on augmentations, creating a tense atmosphere and complex moral dilemmas. With its richly detailed world and engaging gameplay mechanics, Deus Ex: Human Revolution serves as an excellent alternative to The Outer Worlds for fans of sci-fi RPGs.

5. Bioshock Infinite

Gameplay, Story and Setting:

Bioshock Infinite is a first-person shooter with strong narrative-driven gameplay developed by Irrational Games. It's set in the floating city of Columbia in an alternate reality 1912. The gameplay involves navigating through the city, battling enemies using firearms and Vigors (powers granted through drinkable substances). The game also introduces a unique mechanic called Sky-Line that allows players to traverse quickly using magnetic grappling hooks. The story follows Booker DeWitt, a private detective tasked with rescuing Elizabeth, a woman with mysterious powers. As they try to escape Columbia, they unravel its dark secrets and confront its oppressive ruler. Bioshock Infinite's unique setting, compelling narrative, and intense combat make it an interesting option for those who enjoyed The Outer Worlds' mix of exploration, gunplay, and decision-driven storytelling.

These five games each offer their own unique takes on the sci-fi RPG genre. While we eagerly wait for more adventures in The Outer Worlds universe, diving into these alternatives might just quench your thirst for space-faring exploits.