Avowed: A Delightful RPG That Captures the Spirit of Exploration
Avowed isn't revolutionary, but it's a captivating RPG that will enthrall exploration enthusiasts. It successfully evokes the spirit of Morrowind, the seminal RPG that redefined immersive gaming worlds long before modern standards. Like Morrowind, every element of Avowed's world – from rocks and bushes to the ocean floor – promises adventure. Obsidian Entertainment has masterfully recreated this sense of discovery.
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Set within the Pillars of Eternity universe, Avowed plunges players into a richly detailed world accessible even without prior series knowledge. While familiarity enhances the experience, the narrative unfolds organically through in-game interactions and environmental storytelling.
The player takes on the role of an emissary dispatched by the Aedyr Emperor to the Living Lands to investigate a mysterious fungal plague affecting souls and driving individuals to madness. In this world, souls cycle through life, death, and reincarnation. The protagonist is unique, touched at birth by a god (whose identity remains a mystery), resulting in unusual growths on their head, arousing fear in some.
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The protagonist's arrival in the Living Lands is anything but peaceful, beginning with an attack by deranged Aedyran guards. Reaching the port city of Paradise (a fittingly ironic name), the player finds chaos reigns: high-ranking officials are missing, the gates are closed, and the city is in disarray – a classic RPG trope.
Exploration immediately reveals the game's rewarding treasure-hunting aspect. Early discoveries include sunken riches near the port (a near-drowning experience included!), a smugglers' camp, and countless hidden nooks and crannies brimming with quests and secrets.
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One memorable moment involved breaking into a house, scaling scaffolding to a lighthouse, and discovering a treasure map, unique boots, and stunning vistas. The nighttime illumination of surrounding mushrooms revealed further paths and secrets.
The world is consistently surprising. Hidden chests lie beneath lighthouses, in sewers, and even perched precariously on beams. A backpack filled with loot hangs from a cliff edge, while a skeleton rests below. Even an ice grenade can temporarily freeze water, allowing access to submerged items.
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These moments of discovery are plentiful. Supplies appear in unexpected locations, leading to new quests, rare items, and compelling narratives. Examples include helping a blind man and his wife, retrieving a nobleman's ring (which boosts health regeneration!), and navigating a reptilian camp to confront a formidable giant.
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In just eight hours, countless adventures unfolded without focusing on the main quest or repetitive grinding. Experimenting with different character builds and item interactions opened up numerous possibilities, whether wielding a shield and staff or heavy armor and melee weapons.
With numerous unanswered questions and unexplored systems, the journey in Avowed is far from over. A path of hidden chests, untold stories, and forgotten treasures awaits. Avowed delivers a constant stream of discoveries, reminding us why RPGs remain a captivating genre.