Avowed - Review

"Avowed," created by Obsidian Entertainment, is an action RPG situated in the vast realm of Eora, the same universe as "Pillars of Eternity." Launched on February 18, 2025, for Windows and Xbox Series X/S, the game has attracted notice for its captivating world-building, compelling story, and dynamic combat mechanics.

Setting and Storyline

The game unfolds in the Living Lands, a diverse region within Eora, featuring environments ranging from lush forests to arid deserts. Players assume the role of an envoy from the Aedyr Empire, tasked with investigating the mysterious "Dream Scourge" plague affecting the land. This narrative premise sets the stage for a journey filled with intrigue and discovery.

Gameplay and Combat

"Avowed" provides a mix of first-person and third-person views, enabling players to customize their experience. The combat system is dynamic, featuring a range of weapons and magical powers. Players can merge spells with physical attacks, like freezing an enemy before delivering a powerful melee blow. The game includes multiple skill trees for unlocking new abilities and allows for individual weapon enhancements. Although the combat system is praised for its depth, some critics have mentioned it can feel imprecise and might depend more on gear quality than player skill, resulting in repetitive encounters.

Character Development and Choices

The game focuses on character development, providing significant choices that impact the storyline and interactions with companions. Players can mold their character's tone via dialogue options, influencing relationships and the results of quests. Nonetheless, some reviewers have noted that the quest design and storytelling occasionally seem formulaic.

Critical Reception

When "Avowed" was launched, it garnered generally positive reviews. Critics applauded its captivating world-building, compelling storyline, and rich lore. Several reviewers pointed out the game's charm and complexity, considering it one of the year's delightful surprises.

Nonetheless, there were criticisms about the combat system's dependence on gear progression and instances of repetitive gameplay.

Conclusion

"Avowed" is a significant entry in the fantasy RPG genre, featuring an intricately detailed world and an intriguing narrative. Although it doesn't transform the genre, it delivers an enjoyable experience for action role-playing game enthusiasts. Its release on PC and Xbox Series X/S, as well as its inclusion in Xbox Game Pass, ensures it is accessible to a broad audience.