The Outer Worlds 2 has introduced an innovative main menu feature that involves interaction with an animatronic character, Moon Man. Developed by Obsidian under the direction of Brandon Adler, the menu provides a unique and engaging experience for players.
Development Challenges and Features
Initially, the development team at Obsidian wanted players to interact more deeply with Moon Man. However, these plans proved too complicated. Instead, they focused on refining the character's reactions based on player choices and game progress.
The Moon Man menu adds a dynamic element to the game. It humorously comments on players' in-game actions, such as difficulty setting choices. Despite potential concerns about visibility due to console shutdown habits, data showing that approximately 50% of PlayStation 5 users fully power down their consoles reassured the team.
Creative Evolution and Impact
The Moon Man's character was adapted during development to reflect in-game corporate dynamics, especially after Spacer's Choice faced fictional acquisition. This shift in narrative added depth to the character, making him resentful yet charming.
Moreover, several planned context-aware features, such as comments on digital storefront activities, were discarded due to technical limitations. Regardless, the main menu remains a standout aspect of The Outer Worlds 2, credited in part to Brandon Adler's vision and persistence.
