Avowed Review: A Journey Through Obsidian's Fantasy RPG

Release Date: February 18, 2025

Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Game Pass

Developer: Obsidian Entertainment

Publisher: Xbox Game Studios

Introduction

Obsidian Entertainment has carved out a reputation for delivering rich, narrative-driven RPGs, and with "Avowed," they step into the realm of first-person fantasy adventures. Set in the world of Eora, where the "Pillars of Eternity" series resides, "Avowed" promises a blend of exploration, combat, and choice-driven storytelling. Here's what you need to know about this anticipated RPG.

Setting and Story

"Avowed" transports players to the Living Lands, a region plagued by the mysterious Dreamscourge, a soul-affecting illness. As an envoy from the Aedyr Empire, your mission is to investigate this plague while navigating the political and magical complexities of the land. The narrative is compelling, drawing from Obsidian's knack for world-building and lore. The story unfolds with a familiar yet engaging pace, offering a mix of political intrigue, personal drama, and supernatural elements.

World: The Living Lands are visually spectacular, with environments ranging from lush forests to eerie, fungal-infested areas. The art style, while not groundbreaking, is charming and vibrant, capturing the essence of a fantasy world teeming with life and mystery.
Story: While the plot doesn't reinvent the wheel, it's the attention to detail in character interactions and the branching narrative paths that stand out. Choices matter, affecting the world in meaningful ways, although some critics note that the game could push these consequences further.

Gameplay

Combat and Mechanics

Combat: "Avowed" features a combat system reminiscent of "Skyrim" but with Obsidian's signature twist. Players can mix and match melee, magic, and ranged attacks, offering a classless system where you can adapt your playstyle. The combat feels fluid with a satisfying weight to melee attacks, though some might find the magic system a tad simplistic.
Exploration: The game encourages exploration through its design, with secrets tucked away in nooks and crannies, rewarding those who venture off the beaten path. The world, while segmented into zones rather than a seamless open world, feels expansive enough to foster adventure without being overwhelming.

Companions and NPCs

Companions: The companions in "Avowed" are where the game truly shines. Each has their backstory, motivations, and unique abilities that can be called upon in combat or used to solve puzzles. However, the lack of romance options might disappoint some, and the companions' depth doesn't quite match the likes of "Baldur's Gate 3."
Dialogue: Obsidian's writing is a highlight, with dialogue options influenced by your character's background and skills, leading to varied outcomes in quests and relationships with NPCs.

Graphics and Performance

Graphics: "Avowed" looks good, with a color palette that stands out, but it doesn't push the boundaries of current-gen console capabilities. Textures sometimes appear dated, and character models can lack the polish seen in competitors.
Performance: On PC, the game runs smoothly with minimal issues, though console players might experience occasional frame rate drops in densely populated areas.

Sound and Music

Sound Design: The soundtrack is atmospheric, enhancing the mood of each region you explore. Voice acting is generally well done, with standout performances from main characters, although some minor NPCs can feel a bit flat.
Music: While not memorable in isolation, the music effectively complements the gameplay, with themes that evolve as you delve deeper into the story.

Conclusion

"Avowed" is a commendable entry in the RPG genre, offering a solid experience for fans of Obsidian's storytelling and those looking for a less overwhelming fantasy adventure compared to its peers. It excels in world-building, character interaction, and providing a sense of adventure, although it falls short in innovation and graphical fidelity.

Pros:
- Engaging narrative with meaningful choices
- Fun, flexible combat system
- Beautiful, if not cutting-edge, world design
- Strong companion dynamics
Cons:
- Lacks significant graphical advancements
- Combat can feel repetitive over time
- Some narrative elements are predictable

Final Score: 8/10

"Avowed" might not be the revolutionary RPG some fans hoped for, but it's a darn good time, especially for those who appreciate Obsidian's touch in game design. It's recommended for players looking for a well-crafted RPG experience that respects the traditions of the genre while adding its unique flavor. Whether you're a long-time fan of Eora or new to Obsidian's worlds, "Avowed" offers enough intrigue and adventure to warrant a journey into the Living Lands.