Economy & Bits

Understanding the economy of The Outer Worlds, particularly the use of Bits, is essential for survival and progression. Managing your currency, acquiring valuable items, and making smart purchases can sificantly impact your ability to overcome challenges and explore the Halcyon colony.

Bits are the primary currency in The Outer Worlds, used for everything from purchasing supplies and gear to bribing individuals and paying for services. A strong grasp of the game's economy, including how to earn Bits efficiently and where to spend them wisely, is crucial for any player looking to thrive in the Halcyon colony. Whether you're a seasoned trader or a struggling colonist, managing your Bits can make the difference between success and failure.

Earning Bits:

There are several primary ways to acquire Bits:

Quest Rewards: The most consistent source of Bits comes from completing quests. Main story quests and side quests often offer substantial monetary rewards.
Selling Loot: Defeated enemies, looted containers, and items found in the environment can be sold to vendors. Weapons and armor, especially those with higher rarity or unique properties, fetch the best prices.
Vendor Buybacks: Sometimes, vendors will offer to buy back items you've previously sold them, though usually at a lower price.
Bartering: Certain dialogue options or specific perks can allow you to negotiate better prices when selling or buying.
Crafting and Selling: Crafting useful items or upgrading existing gear and then selling them can be a profitable venture, especially if you have access to rare components.

Spending Bits Wisely:

With a limited income, it's important to prioritize your spending:

Ammunition and Consumables: Always ensure you have enough ammo for your preferred weapons and a good stock of healing items like Adreno-Kits.
Gear Upgrades: Investing in better weapons and armor is crucial for tackling tougher enemies. Look for items that complement your playstyle and character build.
Crafting Components: If you plan to craft or upgrade, you'll need to purchase specific components from vendors.
Skill Books: Occasionally, you can purchase skill books that provide a permanent boost to a specific skill.
Bribes and Information: In some dialogue situations, you can use Bits to bypass challenges or gain crucial information.

Vendors:

Vendors are scattered throughout the various settlements and on your ship, the Unreliable. Each vendor typically specializes in certain types of goods. For example, weapon vendors will sell firearms and melee weapons, while general merchants will offer a wider array of supplies. Some vendors may also offer unique items based on your reputation with their associated faction.

Item Rarity and Value:

Items in The Outer Worlds are categorized by rarity, indicated by color:

Common (White): Basic items, often found in abundance.
Uncommon (Green): Slightly better quality, more useful.
Rare (Blue): Sificantly improved stats and often unique properties.
Unique (Purple): Special items with distinct appearances and powerful effects, often tied to quests or specific achievements.

Higher rarity items generally sell for more Bits and are more effective in combat.

Crafting and Upgrading:

The crafting system allows you to improve your existing weapons and armor using components found throughout the world or purchased from vendors. Upgrading your gear is often more cost-effective than buying entirely new, high-end equipment, especially early in the game. You can also craft consumables like grenades and healing items.

Tips for Economic Success:

Loot everything: Don't leave any container or fallen enemy unchecked.
Prioritize selling: Sell off excess weapons and armor that don't fit your build.
Invest in useful skills: Skills like Hacking and Lockpicking can lead to finding more valuable loot.
Check vendor inventories regularly: You might find rare items or essential supplies.
Consider the "Scavenger" perk: This perk increases the amount of loot you find.