Avowed

Dungeons, Dragons, and Disappointment? An Honest Avowed Review!

Is Avowed the next big thing in RPGs, or just another forgettable quest? Join the journey through Obsidian's vast fantasy world as we uncover the gems and the gripes!

Avowed, the latest offering from Obsidian Entertainment, promises an enchanting journey through a grand fantasy world reminiscent of classic RPG epics. With a richly textured environment that boasts a myriad of intricate details and a variety of characters to interact with, players are in for a treat as they delve into the might and magic of this intricate realm. However, amidst the sprawling landscapes and lush lore, the experience can become somewhat uneven; while the world is a wonder to explore, the combat and exploration elements may leave some players yearning for more depth and engagement.

Reviews across the board highlight the strengths of Avowed in its writing and world-building prowess. IGN praises the game as a "competent RPG" that beautifully showcases Obsidian's storytelling skills, although it lacks novel elements to set it apart from its genre contemporaries. The RPS Verdict offers a more candid take, reflecting on their week of diversions, where the simple act of moving crates and manipulating water turned into surprisingly frustrating obstacles rather than fun gameplay. This raises an intriguing contrast: how can a game with such potential falter in delivering a fully immersive experience?

The combat in Avowed is undoubtedly exhilarating, described as ‘frantically fun’ by ESPN, yet critics note that the engaging action isn’t enough to compensate for a seemingly lackluster narrative and character development. In a world where the Elder Scrolls series has set the bar high with its captivating storytelling, Avowed struggles to match that level of narrative depth, leaving players with a sense of unfulfilled expectations. However, some players find moments of unexpected wonder amidst the chaos, marking Avowed as a refreshing intermission in the realm of first-person RPGs.

The game's director, Carrie Patel, stands by the conviction that no AI can replicate the artistry of human narrative designers. This statement resonates in a world where AI technology is rapidly advancing, emphasizing the need for authentic storytelling rooted in human experiences. On a more whimsical note, it’s worth mentioning how Avowed’s gameplay has been optimized for platforms like the Steam Deck, inviting players to explore its stunning landscapes on-the-go. Not to be missed is the first four hours of gameplay where players can earn a badass flaming sword that promises to keep them engaged in their early adventures.

As a fun fact, Avowed is seen as a spiritual successor to Obsidian's critically-acclaimed Pillars of Eternity, providing a familiar yet distinct experience for fans of the original. Did you know that the game’s diverse world is crafted as a tribute to their mastery in world-building, which also brought us the beloved Fallout series? Avowed’s journey might not fulfill every expectation, but it certainly captures the imagination with its unique blend of fantasy and adventure, inviting players to journey through its captivating yet imperfect landscapes.