Avowed: Obsidian’s New RPG and Why It’s Fantastic & Release Date
“Avowed,” the latest offering from Obsidian Entertainment, is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated RPGs in recent memory. Set in the rich fantasy world of Eora, known from the Pillars of Eternity series, Avowed promises to blend Obsidian’s signature storytelling and deep role-playing mechanics with immersive first-person combat.
Recent previews and gameplay demos have provided a clearer picture of what to expect, and it’s safe to say that Avowed has the potential to be a major hit.
Setting and World
Avowed is set in the Living Lands, an untamed and mysterious region within the world of Eora. Fans of the Pillars of Eternity series will find themselves in familiar territory but with a fresh perspective. The game’s world design leans heavily into the artistic style established in Pillars of Eternity, with lush environments that encourage exploration. From moss-covered ruins to sprawling caverns, the game invites players to immerse themselves in a beautifully crafted fantasy world.
Gameplay Mechanics and Combat
The gameplay in Avowed is where Obsidian’s craftsmanship truly shines. The combat system has evolved from what was showcased in earlier demos, addressing concerns about animation fluidity and impact. Now, every sword swing, spell cast, and arrow fired feels weighty and satisfying.
The game allows for diverse combat styles, including melee, ranged, and magic-based approaches. Players can switch between weapon sets with a simple press of a button, offering flexibility in combat. The game includes three main classes: Barbarian, Ranger, and Mage, each with unique abilities and playstyles.
Barbarian Class:
The Barbarian class is designed for those who prefer close-quarters combat. Players can utilize powerful melee attacks with weapons like axes and swords. The combat is fast-paced, with an emphasis on managing resources such as health and essence to unleash devastating abilities. For example, players can charge up attacks to freeze enemies or use area-of-effect (AoE) abilities to control the battlefield.
Mage Class:
The Mage class, described as the most challenging to master, relies on careful resource management and strategic use of spells. Players can materialize an ethereal staff, cast tracking projectiles, and unleash powerful area spells.
One standout ability allows the player to slam a magic book shut, sending out a damaging wave that hits all nearby enemies. The Mage class offers a deep, rewarding experience for players who enjoy weaving together spell combinations.
Ranger Class:
While not detailed in the preview, the Ranger class likely focuses on ranged combat, utilizing bows, crossbows, and possibly traps. Given Obsidian’s attention to detail, this class will probably offer unique strategies for those who prefer to strike from a distance.
Story and Narrative Depth
Obsidian is renowned for its storytelling, and Avowed appears to continue this tradition. The narrative is driven by player choices, with multiple dialogue options that can dramatically alter the course of events. A recent demo highlighted a moment where the player encounters a young explorer named Cadman. Depending on the player’s choices, Cadman’s fate can vary significantly, showcasing the game’s commitment to meaningful decision-making.
In another segment, players encounter Saramis, a gold-skinned deity-like creature who tasks them with retrieving a mysterious relic. The story is layered with intrigue, offering a mix of humor, dark themes, and moral dilemmas. These narrative threads are supported by engaging companions like Kai, a green-skinned warrior with a sharp wit, adding depth and personality to the player’s journey.
Visuals and Art Direction
Avowed’s visuals are a blend of vibrant colors and detailed environments, reminiscent of the Pillars of Eternity series but elevated by the capabilities of modern hardware. The game’s art direction emphasizes the fantastical elements of Eora, with striking landscapes, eerie caverns, and ancient ruins. The attention to detail in the environment encourages exploration, with secrets and hidden paths that reward curious players.
Development and Release
Developed by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Microsoft, Avowed will be an exclusive title for Xbox Series X/S and PC, launching on Xbox Game Pass on day one. The game is being built using Unreal Engine 5, promising high-quality graphics and smooth performance. The release date is currently set for 18 February 2025, and anticipation is building as more details emerge.
Conclusion
Avowed is shaping up to be a must-play for RPG fans, combining Obsidian’s narrative prowess with an immersive first-person experience. With a world rich in lore, dynamic combat, and meaningful choices, the game has the potential to set a new standard in the RPG genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Pillars of Eternity or new to the world of Eora, Avowed is a game to watch as its release date approaches.
For those eager to dive into this world, the early gameplay impressions are overwhelmingly positive, suggesting that Avowed will not only meet but exceed expectations. Keep an eye out for this title—it might just be one of the standout games of 2024.
FURTHER READING
