Outward 2 Moves to Open Beta, Early Access Set for July 7
The shift to open beta and the July 7 early access date give the clearest timeline yet for when the broader public can play Nine Dots Studio's survival-focused follow-up to the 2020 original.
Reporting from 2 sources: 4Gamer.net, Game Spark.
Nine Dots Studio announced on June 8, 2026, that the closed beta for the PC action RPG 'Outward 2' has ended and the game is moving to an open beta test. The studio released new gameplay footage alongside the announcement. The open beta is now live. The early access version is scheduled to launch on July 7, 2026, on Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG.com. 'Outward 2' is an action RPG where players control ordinary people, not chosen heroes, surviving in the harsh world of Aurai. It builds on the 2020 original 'Outward' with enhanced character creation and growth systems, and supports local and online two-player co-op. Environmental effects tied to seasonal changes, backpack weight management, and ritualistic magic casting are said to refine the survival elements from the first game. A community contest called '#ExploreAurai' is also underway, where participants can submit screenshots or videos taken in the beta version for a chance to win two early access keys. Details are available on the Steam store page.
The open beta announcement for 'Outward 2' was made during the PC Gaming Show 2026 on June 8. Nine Dots Studio released a trailer that both announces the open beta and shows gameplay scenes. The game's early access launch on July 7 will be available across three PC storefronts: Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG.com. 'Outward 2' is described as an action RPG that simulates adventure life, with a focus on survival elements. The original 'Outward' was released in 2020. The sequel inherits its predecessor's charm while adding deeper character creation and growth systems. It also supports both local and online two-player co-op. Environmental factors such as seasonal changes, backpack weight management, and ritualistic magic casting are highlighted as refinements to the survival mechanics. The '#ExploreAurai' community contest is currently accepting screenshots and videos captured in the beta version, with winners receiving two early access keys. Full contest rules are posted on the Steam store page.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 2 cited sources below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.