What if your character’s biggest weaknesses could actually make them stronger? In The Outer Worlds 2, Obsidian has supercharged the beloved Flaws system, turning it from a simple perk trade-off into a deep layer of strategy and storytelling. Every weakness now tells a story—one that’s shaped by you.
Unlike traditional RPG systems, Flaws in The Outer Worlds 2 aren’t random debuffs—they’re consequences of how you play. Whether you constantly reload, loot everything in sight, or avoid combat altogether, the game takes notice and offers tailored Flaws that can either empower or punish you depending on how you build your character. Here’s everything you need to know about mastering your imperfections and using them to your advantage in Arcadia.
What Are Flaws in The Outer Worlds 2?
Flaws are permanent character traits that create both buffs and debuffs, offering meaningful trade-offs that influence every encounter. In the original Outer Worlds, accepting a Flaw gave you a single perk point with a downside. In the sequel, Obsidian has expanded this idea—each Flaw now includes a carefully balanced mix of advantages and penalties that can completely redefine your playstyle.
These Flaws emerge dynamically from your behavior. If you steal too much, take too many hits, or reload compulsively, the game will eventually pop up with a Flaw suggestion tailored to that action. You can accept or reject it—but once accepted, it’s permanent for that playthrough.
How to Unlock Flaws Naturally
Here’s how the system works:
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Perform a behavior repeatedly (e.g., crouch often, steal items, overuse melee).
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The game detects the habit and triggers a Flaw prompt.
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Review the benefits and drawbacks.
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Choose to accept or reject it.
Every player’s set of Flaws will be unique, reflecting their true in-game personality. This keeps each playthrough fresh and deeply personal.
Complete Flaw List and How to Get Them
| Flaw Name | Positive Effects | Negative Effects | How to Unlock |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kleptomania | +100% vendor buying price for stolen goods | Randomly steals items, risking detection | Steal multiple times |
| Bad Knees | +50% crouch speed | Crouching makes noise within 10m | Crouch for long periods |
| Sungazer | Regenerate health outdoors (up to 50%) | +100% ranged weapon spread & blur | Look directly at the sun |
| Flawed | Gain 1 perk every 5 levels | Must accept all future Flaws | Accept more than 2 Flaws |
| Easily Distracted | +1 skill point per level | Can only invest in lowest non-zero skills | Distribute points across many skills |
| Consumerism | -15% vendor prices | -10% sell value | Premium Edition bonus |
| Overprepared | +50% magazine size | -40% damage for 8s after emptying mag | Reload early often |
| Reckless Leadership | Heal allies when one falls | Can’t revive companions in combat | Let companions die repeatedly |
| Anger Mismanagement | +25% power attack damage | +50% damage taken while blocking | Use melee without blocking |
Which Flaws to Accept or Avoid
Flaws Worth Taking
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Sungazer: Perfect for melee builds who fight up close and don’t rely on accuracy. Free health regen is a massive perk.
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Overprepared: Great for players who reload smartly—more bullets, fewer penalties.
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Consumerism: If you buy more than you sell, this Flaw is pure profit.
Flaws to Be Careful With
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Kleptomania: Random stealing can instantly turn whole towns hostile.
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Flawed: Locks you into every future Flaw—powerful but dangerous.
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Easily Distracted: Prevents true specialization—terrible for focused builds.
Build-Specific Recommendations
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Stealth Builds: Avoid Bad Knees—the extra noise defeats the purpose.
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Companion Commanders: Skip Reckless Leadership unless your companions are tanks.
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Snipers & Ranged Fighters: Stay away from Sungazer—that accuracy hit is brutal.
Advanced Flaw Strategies
The Flawed Genius (High-Risk, High-Reward)
Take the Flawed trait early to rack up perk points. Combine it with Anger Mismanagement and Sungazer for a melee powerhouse that trades precision for unstoppable close-quarters power and regeneration.
The Specialized Savant (Low-Risk, High-Control)
Accept only one or two safe Flaws—like Overprepared—to keep your build clean while gaining strategic bonuses. Ideal for snipers or perfectionists who hate penalties.
Roleplay Concepts
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The Honest Scoundrel: Kleptomania + Compulsive Liar for a morally messy rogue.
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The Reckless Leader: Reckless Leadership + Dependent for a commander who sacrifices allies.
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The Prepared Packrat: Overprepared + Hermit—the ultimate self-reliant survivalist.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Imperfections
The Flaws System in The Outer Worlds 2 is more than a gimmick—it’s one of the smartest, most personal RPG mechanics in years. It rewards self-awareness, punishes recklessness, and makes every decision matter.
Whether you’re min-maxing for power or roleplaying a deeply flawed hero, learning to master your imperfections can turn your weaknesses into your greatest strengths.
So, spacer—don’t fear the flaws. Embrace them. They just might be what makes your story unforgettable.
🌐 Community & Resource Links
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