A few weeks ago, Obsidian Entertainment studio warned players that it would remove the original The Outer Worlds from Steam and other digital services. Only the updated version, Spacer's Choice Edition, was to remain on sale on these platforms (the original is still available on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch).
However, at the end of May, players discovered that they had not received a free copy. Obsidian support stated that due to “platform limitations,” PS4 / Xbox One players must purchase not only the game itself but also the DLC:
We apologize for the confusion. Due to unforeseen platform limitations, owners of digital versions on Xbox One and PS4 must own both DLCs to be eligible for the upgrade.
FootballRacing38 started a discussion – he reminded that it was initially promised to give the edition to all owners of the base game:
About three weeks ago, Obsidian clearly stated that if you bought the original The Outer Worlds before May 27, you would get the Spacer’s Choice Edition for free on May 27. However, they have now announced that this is no longer the case, and you also need to buy both DLCs.
As proof, he cites a quote from the developers from an old announcement – the announcement referred to the base version of the game:
If you have at least the base version of The Outer Worlds in your library before May 27, you will receive the Spacer’s Choice Edition for free. Yes, for free! This applies to all platforms where the Spacer’s Choice Edition is available (Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG). After May 27, The Outer Worlds: Spacer’s Choice Edition will cost $39.99.
Those who bought The Outer Worlds are now criticizing the developers for “deception,” as they were not given the Spacer’s Choice Edition for purchasing the base version, as previously promised.
Dissatisfied users, like XerGR, suggest resolving the issue with Obsidian Entertainment through court. In his opinion, this case falls under the definition of “false advertising.”