Avowed: A Classic Obsidian RPG Showcasing Solid Worldbuilding and Engagement

Avowed brings us back to familiar territory with Obsidian’s robust RPG mechanics, vivid storytelling, and detailed worldbuilding. While not groundbreaking, it serves as a reliable action RPG experience set in the beloved fantasy universe of Pillars of Eternity. The game lands as a classic comfort food for RPG fans, providing all the elements enthusiasts expect but bringing little to advance the genre.

In Avowed, you find yourself as a Godlike Envoy with magical powers and a mission to quell a madness-imbued plague known as the Dreamscourge. Navigating the fantastical Living Lands, you're caught in the habitual rhythm of exploring caves, uncovering secrets, and acquiring loot. It's a setup reminiscent of RPG classics but with enough new spice to keep players engaged through its dynamic storytelling and impactful decision-making.

Avowed: A Classic Obsidian RPG

Exploration and Combat

The real highlight in Avowed is its dialogue and immersive story. As your character disciplines allies, unravels mysteries, and steers the fate of the Living Lands, your choices reverberate through the game world. The storyline, while sometimes predictable, maintains momentum and captivates players with its compelling twists and turns.

Combat remains a cornerstone of the gameplay loop — varied yet traditional, blending spellcasting with physical combat. The emphasis on magic and imaginative arsenal provides excitement, although I noticed repetitive enemy types, especially the almost omnipresent bears, slightly dampen this aspect.

There’s a refreshing mix of engaging interactions with quirky companions. Each brings unique dialogue, abilities, and a chance for the player to explore the dynamics of companionship, albeit without the deeper romance arcs found in some counterparts.

Worldbuilding and Technical Details

Obsidian's worldbuilding expertise shines, richly decorating the fictional landscapes of Eora with history and cultures that beckon exploration. The in-game lore system aids players, enhancing understanding without needing an exhaustive background. Each area in the game brims with vivid details, though interactions after initial exploration can feel flat due to non-respawning enemies, creating lifeless backtracked paths.

Performance-wise, Avowed is a polished gem, offering an unexpectedly bug-free experience throughout prolonged sessions. This technical stability is a delightful surprise and stands in contrast with the genre’s usual pitfalls.

Personal Impression

Viewing Avowed through an impartial lens reveals a tried-and-true RPG marked by solid execution but limited by convention. It might not redefine what RPGs are or aggressively innovate, but it holds its ground hale with distinguished writing and a technically sound adventure. For fans, it’s a nostalgic ride; for newcomers, it's an entrance into well-crafted fantasy gaming.