Avowed
Avowed created by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Xbox Game Studios, is an action RPG first-person game based in the vast fantasy world of Eora, sharing the same world as the Pillars of Eternity series. Avowed was launched on February 18, 2025, for Windows and Xbox Series X/S, and the title has garnered much praise for its rich storyline and interactive combat system.
Gameplay and Mechanics
In Avowed, the player is an Aedyr Empire ambassador who has been dispatched to mysterious Living Lands to look into a mysterious plague called the Dream Scourge. Magic, melee, and ranged combat with diverse playstyles are supported by the game. The player is able to use different weapons like swords, axes, and guns, and cast spells that stun or trap foes. The ability to change between fight stances, like dual wielding pistols or having a sword and shield, adds depth. There are several trees of skills to go to and learn new tricks, and there are some of the guns to upgrade. Avowed is not open-world itself but is composed of several vast open spaces filled with quests and narrative.
Non.player character (NPC) interaction is the central theme, with conversation influencing relationships and story through decision. Companions, each with their own combat abilities and personalities, can join the player on their journey, adding to gameplay and story.
Development and Release
Avowed development started in 2018 as a mix of Destiny and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. When Obsidian Entertainment was acquired by Microsoft in the latter half of 2018, the game was rewritten dramatically, becoming a story-driven, single-player game with Carrie Patel as the protagonist. The game has been rewritten several times, such as eliminating multiplayer features and moving away from an open-world system and towards one of personalized, targeted areas. After its reveal in July 2020, Avowed was re-announced in 2023, its release date finally established for February 18, 2025.
Reception and Impact
Avowed has received a positive reception, with its engaging narrative, dense world-building, and satisfying combat mechanics being praised. Being part of Microsoft's Game Pass subscription service has increased its player base, as more individuals can now play it.
As a most welcome addition to the RPG game genre, Avowed shows the commitment of Obsidian Entertainment to developing interesting, choice-based games that would be enjoyable not only for veteran players but even for new players.