In *Avowed*, the character creator goes beyond mere aesthetics, allowing players to select a Background that enriches their character’s narrative and gameplay experience. Each Background not only provides a unique backstory but also influences dialogue options and comes with a starting weapon. Here’s a comprehensive look at all five *Avowed* Backgrounds and their unique attributes.
Every Avowed Background, Listed
*Avowed* offers five distinct Backgrounds, each with its own narrative and starting weapon. Importantly, all Backgrounds can access any equipment and abilities in the game, ensuring flexibility in gameplay. Let's delve into the details of each Background:
Arcane Scholar: As an Arcane Scholar, your character boasts an academic background, having graduated from Bragganhyl Academy. Your scholarly pursuits led to the publication of a treatise on soul lineages, which stirred controversy and resulted in your arrest by a local lord. However, the emperor saw value in your knowledge and recruited you to the imperial court archives. Arcane Scholars are well-versed in the occult, legal precedent, historical observation, and poetry, influencing their dialogue choices.
Court Augur: This Background carries a tragic past where your character, a Court Augur, faced suspicion and hostility from villagers after crops failed. Your visions and insights made you a target, forcing you to flee to Highcrown where the emperor took you under his wing as his personal mystic. Court Augurs connect deeply with the spiritual and magical elements of the game, offering dialogue options that reflect this affinity. They are ideal for players interested in wizardry and will find a strong connection with the companion Giatta.
Noble Scion: Born into wealth and influence but marred by scandal, Noble Scions represent the fallout of a once-powerful family. After the family's collapse, you sought the emperor's mercy, becoming a valuable ally to the empire. This Background is perfect for players who wish to align closely with imperial interests and navigate the political landscape of the Living Lands.
Vanguard Scout: Vanguard Scouts hail from humble beginnings and were spared execution by the empire. Preferring the wilderness over urban life, they excel in tracking and espionage, making them crucial assets to the empire. This Background suits players looking to embrace a hunter playstyle and will resonate most with the companion Marius.
War Hero: Having quelled a Skaenite uprising, War Heroes were rewarded by the emperor with a place among elite warriors. Their loyalty and combat prowess make them invaluable to the empire. This Background is ideal for players who want to role-play as a warrior and will likely form a strong bond with the companion Kai.
Every Background’s Starting Weapon in Avowed
Each Background in *Avowed* comes equipped with a starting weapon, all of which are One-Handed Melee items of Common Quality. These weapons are designed to be replaced or upgraded as you progress through the game, so your choice of Background should primarily reflect the narrative and role-playing aspects you wish to explore. Here’s a list of the starting weapons for each Background:
- Arcane Scholar – Common Dagger (One-Handed)
- Court Augur – Common Mace (One-Handed)
- Noble Scion – Common Sword (One-Handed)
- Vanguard Scout – Common Axe (One-Handed)
- War Hero – Common Spear (One-Handed)
You'll find your starting weapon leaning against some crates near the shipwreck during the On Strange Shores Quest, marking the beginning of your journey in *Avowed*.
That covers all the backgrounds available in *Avowed* and their roles within the game's narrative and mechanics. Whether you're drawn to the scholarly pursuits of an Arcane Scholar or the rugged life of a Vanguard Scout, *Avowed* offers a rich tapestry of stories and playstyles to explore.
*Avowed is available now on PC and Xbox.*
