The flaw system in The Outer Worlds 2 isn’t just a gimmick—it’s one of the cleverest ways Obsidian keeps its galaxy full of personality. It asks a simple question: how far are you willing to go for an edge? Maybe you’re a brilliant marksman with bad knees, or a daring explorer who’s terrified of robots. Whatever your flaw, every decision adds flavor to your character and shapes the way you play.
This guide breaks down how flaws work, what triggers them, and which ones are worth keeping. Whether you’re new to the game or planning your perfect build, understanding flaws can make the difference between an average colonist and a legendary misfit.
How the Flaw System Works
Flaws in The Outer Worlds 2 are optional drawbacks your character can acquire through gameplay. Instead of picking them at creation, you unlock them dynamically as you play. For example, take too much damage from automechanicals, and you might develop a permanent “Technophobia.” The game will prompt you to accept or reject the flaw—if you take it, you’ll gain an extra perk point but also suffer its permanent downside.
Unlike perks or skills, flaws reflect your playstyle and habits. They don’t appear randomly; they react to what you do. Spend too long under harsh sunlight? You might pick up “Sungazer.” Miss too many shots? There’s a flaw for that too. It’s a small touch, but it makes the world feel reactive and personal.
Flaws can’t be removed once accepted, so every choice matters. Some are harmless trade-offs, while others can alter your entire strategy. That’s why knowing which flaws are actually beneficial is crucial for building a strong character.
Best Flaws to Take in The Outer Worlds 2
Some flaws hit harder than others, but a few of them can give you surprisingly powerful synergies depending on your setup. Here are a few worth considering:
Dependent
If you tend to fight alongside companions, this flaw is a hidden gem. You deal 25% extra damage when attacking enemies your allies have already hit—but your base damage drops by 10%. Since you’re rarely alone, that penalty barely matters, and the damage boost stacks beautifully in group fights.
Overprepared
Gun enthusiasts will love this one. Your weapon magazine size increases by 50%, letting you spray longer before reloading. The catch? Empty your clip, and your damage plummets for a few seconds. It rewards rhythm—reload smart, and you’ll rarely feel the penalty.
Teetotaler
If you rely on healing mid-battle, this flaw gives your Medical Inhaler a 25% healing bonus. The trade-off is an equal boost to toxicity, but as long as you manage your resources, it’s a fair deal for tougher fights.
Consumerism
Perfect for players who love shopping and crafting. Items from vendors cost 15% less, though you earn 10% less when selling loot. Early in the game, the savings outweigh the loss, making it a great economy-focused flaw.
Treacherous
A dream for stealth players. You lose 25% of your base health, but your sneak attack damage doubles. Pair this with the right stealth perks, and you’ll be ghosting through enemy bases before they even notice you.
Tips for Choosing the Right Flaws
Before you start accepting every flaw that pops up, think about your playstyle. If you rely heavily on ranged combat, “Sungazer” might be a nightmare. But if you play up close with melee, it’s irrelevant. Likewise, some flaws complement specific builds—“Dependent” works great for companion-heavy squads, while “Treacherous” fits solo infiltrators.
Also, consider long-term impact. Flaws that affect your stats can’t be undone, and multiple small penalties can snowball fast. A few flaws may even alter how NPCs react to you, adding narrative flavor (and chaos) to dialogue scenes.
Remember: each flaw gives you a perk point, and perks can define your combat rhythm. So even if a flaw looks punishing, it might open doors to new builds or experimental playstyles.