Avowed is an open-world RPG from Obsidian Entertainment that immerses players in a richly crafted fantasy universe, offering engaging storytelling and a dynamic combat system. Players assume the role of the Emissary, exploring the Living Lands while tackling a main quest and side missions. Although the game excels in writing and character development, it suffers from issues like static environments and uneven difficulty in combat. Ultimately, while Avowed is entertaining and well-structured, it lacks the innovation needed to elevate the experience further.
Discover the World of Avowed
Avowed, the latest open-world role-playing game from Microsoft, invites players into a captivating adventure akin to Skyrim. However, it distinguishes itself through a richly crafted universe, masterful storytelling, and an energetic combat system. While the game has a solid foundation, it faces challenges in fully capturing its audience. Let’s delve into the details.
Writing That Engages Players
In 2015, Obsidian Entertainment revitalized the classic cRPG genre with Pillars of Eternity, a title that not only breathed new life into an underappreciated category but also showcased impressive writing and an epic scope. Following the success of its sequel in 2018, Obsidian has expanded this universe with Avowed. After extensive gameplay, here’s what we found.
In Avowed, players can assume the role of various character types, from warriors and thieves to wizards. The game positions you as the Emissary, a character of your own design, tasked with investigating the Living Lands on behalf of the mighty Aedyr empire. This island is under siege by a mysterious evil that transforms its creatures and inhabitants into the undead. Following an introductory segment that familiarizes players with the mechanics, you are free to explore the docks of Paradise and beyond.
While Avowed does not reinvent the action RPG genre, it diligently applies established formulas, perhaps too cautiously. Players engage in a main quest that spans various explorable regions while also completing side quests to enhance their character and acquire new gear. This approach is familiar and effective. However, what truly sets Avowed apart is the quality of its writing.
Many missions, including side quests, exemplify exceptional storytelling with choices that have genuine consequences. One side quest involving a missing expedition is particularly engaging, filled with unexpected developments. Yet, some quests can feel tedious and easily forgotten after receiving their rewards. The main storyline remains engaging, though at times it can become overly convoluted, losing clarity in its intricate universe. While the game may lack the cynical tone characteristic of the Pillars of Eternity series, Obsidian’s talent for creating compelling characters remains evident, drawing players into their stories.
Exploring the Living Lands
Though labeled as a “Skyrim-like” adventure, Avowed’s structure resembles more that of The Outer Worlds, Obsidian’s earlier title. This results in several exploreable areas that, while not expansive, are intricately designed. However, this compact design can detract from the sense of grandeur and discovery that is often expected in a fantasy adventure. It becomes difficult to engage with the narrative when ancient caves are just a short distance from the city gates.
Every region boasts its own artistic style that is consistently appealing. Yet, they can feel like isolated theme parks, where everything revolves around the player. NPCs appear static, waiting for interaction, there’s no dynamic day/night cycle, and enemies remain motionless until approached for combat. This creates an artificial atmosphere that detracts from immersion. The sense of embarking on an adventure is diminished, which is a significant drawback for a fantasy game.
Combat and Progression Challenges
In the Living Lands, players must be prepared to defend themselves. The combat system stands out as one of the game’s highlights. It is fast-paced, deep, and requires strategic thinking, allowing players to choose between being a ranged wizard or a melee warrior. The exhilarating battles are a key element of the journey, motivating players to continue.
However, the combat system is not without its flaws. Players may experience frustrating spikes in difficulty, encountering enemies that are disproportionately strong for their current level. Additionally, the sense of progression feels lacking; even after extensive gameplay, combat mechanics remain unchanged from the start. More attention to character development and progression would enhance the experience, especially since each encounter is enjoyable and strategic, particularly with the help of companions.
Final Thoughts on Avowed
With Avowed, Obsidian refines the gaming formula established with The Outer Worlds, yet some shortcomings persist. The fantasy RPG is engaging and well-written, immersing players in its narrative, but its reliance on familiar structures can become tiresome over time.
Avowed is undoubtedly a coherent and mechanically sound game, but it lacks that essential spark that would elevate it. It gives off the impression that the developers were aware of their successful formula but hesitated to infuse more innovation for fear of disrupting the balance. In summary, it’s a solid title, yet one that craves greater depth and creativity.