The Outer Worlds puts some emphasis on diversity and character identity, with several companions of various backgrounds and identities. Some players may feel these traits are highlighted more than necessary, but the narrative generally prioritizes character skill and motivation within the world’s context. Forced representation is noticeable, though not entirely at the expense of story coherence.

The game often highlights corporate greed and critiques traditional institutions, sometimes including family and religious structure. Masculinity isn’t overtly mocked, but traditional roles and values are frequently subverted or lampooned, in favor of more modern social dynamics. A recurring irreverence towards established norms is present.

Alternative worldviews exist in the world, but there’s a clear bias towards mocking corporate and traditional authority. Traditionalists, religious, or dissenting characters are often painted as either crude or naive. The majority of major characters embody modern, progressive values, with internal debates largely leaning one way.