The Outer Worlds: Spacer's Choice Edition Becomes the Only Version as Original Gets Delisted

A New Chapter for The Outer Worlds

Nearly two years after the release of The Outer Worlds 2, Obsidian Entertainment has quietly reshaped the landscape for its original sci-fi RPG. The studio announced that the base version of The Outer Worlds will be removed from digital storefronts at the end of this month, leaving the enhanced Spacer's Choice Edition as the sole officially supported version. Alongside this decision, a surprise patch adds a new explosive tool to the game—grenades—aimed at players who enjoy setting the galaxy ablaze.

What's Changing?

The most significant shift is the delisting of the original The Outer Worlds from platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and consoles. After January 31, 2025, new players will only be able to purchase the Spacer's Choice Edition, which was released in 2023 as a remastered and expanded version of the game. Existing owners of the base game will retain access to their copy, but it will no longer receive updates or support. The first patch in three years—applied now—is the final hurrah for the original release, and it includes the newly added grenades.

The Spacer's Choice Edition: A Polished Upgrade

Originally positioned as a premium upgrade, the Spacer's Choice Edition offers a suite of improvements over the base game. It includes all previously released DLC (Peril on Gorgon and Murder on Eridanos), enhanced graphics (improved lighting, textures, and resolution), refined gameplay mechanics, and a higher level cap. The edition also features stability fixes and performance optimizations. For new players, this becomes the definitive way to experience the story of the Halcyon colony.

However, the edition comes at a higher price point—currently $59.99 USD compared to the base game's $39.99—leading some fans to question the value proposition, especially for those who owned the original and DLC. Obsidian has not announced a discount or upgrade path for existing owners, a point of contention in the community.

Grenades Added as a Surprise

Perhaps the most head-turning addition in the final patch is the inclusion of grenades. Previously, The Outer Worlds lacked traditional explosive throwables. The patch introduces a faction-specific grenade system: players can craft or find grenades based on the various corporate factions (e.g., Spacer's Choice, Auntie Cleo's, and SubLight). Each type offers distinct effects, from standard explosive damage to corrosive or incendiary variants. Obsidian described this as a "make good aimed at pyromaniacs," referencing the game's existing focus on incendiary weaponry now complemented by area-denial tools.

The grenades are available in both the base game (via the patch) and the Spacer's Choice Edition. However, because the base version will be delisted, this feature effectively becomes an enduring part of the Spacer's Choice experience.

Why Delist the Original?

Obsidian's decision follows an industry trend where publishers consolidate their game libraries to focus support on a single, superior version. Maintaining multiple versions of a game across platforms incurs costs related to patching, certification, and customer support. By delisting the original, Obsidian can streamlines its resources toward the Spacer's Choice Edition and future projects, including potential expansions for The Outer Worlds 2.

Another factor may be the performance gap between the two versions. The Spacer's Choice Edition initially launched with technical issues (frame rate drops on consoles, texture pop-in), but subsequent patches have stabilized it. The base game, by comparison, was never updated to modern standards. Removing it prevents confusion among new buyers and ensures they receive the most optimized experience—even if it comes at a higher cost.

What This Means for Players

For those who already own the original The Outer Worlds, little will change. You'll still be able to download and play it, but no future patches or content updates will arrive. If you want the grenades, you'll need to install the final patch (version 1.9), which is already live. For prospective buyers, the choice is simplified: only the Spacer's Choice Edition will be available.

Obsidian has confirmed that the Spacer's Choice Edition will not be delisted and will remain the primary version moving forward. The addition of grenades, while a small feature, signals the studio's willingness to enhance the game even after its sequel's release.

Looking Ahead

The decision to delist the original The Outer Worlds is a bold move, but one that aligns with long-term support. Whether players see it as a fair consolidation or a cash-grab, the grenades add a welcome layer of tactical depth. As the Spacer's Choice Edition becomes the sole entry point, new players can dive into Halcyon with the best possible version—explosions and all.