November 11, 2026 briefing: Xbox Wire announced yesterday that Side Effects Guaranteed, the first of two narrative expansions for The Outer Worlds 2, launches December 2. It is a useful date for Game Pass players to keep in mind, but the announcement does not say the expansion is included with a Game Pass subscription.
The story sends your Commander to Elysium Valley after a distress signal from a derelict ship. The new region brings a settlement of forgotten Protectorate subjects, new choices around the Sub Rosa criminal organisation, and new enemies including vicious canids and oversized primal sprats.
What changes for your build
The level cap rises from 30 to 36. That adds skill points, three more perks and 15 new perks overall, alongside four new flaws that can reshape how toxicity, assassination targets and combat rewards work. The expansion also adds weapons, armour, companion outfits and a Sub Rosa radio station with 20 new songs.
Players who want to jump straight into the expansion can use a new alternate starting point from the main menu, with a custom save prepared for the DLC. Choices in this first chapter will carry into the second expansion planned for spring 2027.
Price and edition details
Side Effects Guaranteed is listed at $14.99 as a standalone purchase. Xbox Wire says it is also available through the Premium Edition or Premium Edition Upgrade, which include the DLC Pass for the two future story expansions. Check your edition before buying a second copy of the pass.
Source: Xbox Wire’s November 10 announcement. This is a dated briefing based on that announcement, not a claim that the DLC launched today.