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 defined immersive worlds before modern gaming standards. Like Morrowind, every element of Avowed's landscape—from rocks and bushes to the ocean floor—holds the promise of adventure. Obsidian Entertainment has masterfully recreated this sense of discovery.
Table of Contents
- The World of Pillars of Eternity
- A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise
- Treasures Beneath Every Stone
- Stories Waiting to Be Discovered
- Endless Possibilities and Exploration
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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 Emperor of Aedyr to the Living Lands to investigate a mysterious fungal plague that corrupts souls and drives individuals to madness. In this world, souls cycle through life, death, and reincarnation. The protagonist is unique, touched at birth by a god—their identity remaining a mystery—resulting in distinctive growths on their head, arousing fear in some.
A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise
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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), they find chaos reigns: high-ranking officials are missing, gates are closed, and the city is in disarray—a classic RPG trope.
Exploration quickly reveals the game's rewarding treasure-hunting aspects. Early exploration led to underwater riches, a smugglers' camp encounter, and a flurry of quests within the port city. The game encourages thorough investigation.
Treasures Beneath Every Stone
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One memorable instance involved breaking into a house, scaling scaffolding to a lighthouse, and discovering a treasure map, unique boots, and stunning vistas. The nighttime illumination of mushrooms revealed further secrets.
The world is brimming with surprises. Hidden chests lie beneath lighthouses and in sewers, coins rest precariously in nests, and backpacks dangle from cliffs. Even simple actions, like throwing an ice grenade into the water, unlock access to submerged loot.
Stories Waiting to Be Discovered
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These moments of discovery are plentiful. Supplies, quests, and intriguing scenarios await in unexpected locations. Helping a blind man and his wife, retrieving a nobleman's ring (which unexpectedly boosted health regeneration), and encountering deceased lovers are just a few examples of the rich narrative tapestry woven throughout the game. Further exploration led to a fight against a formidable giant.
Endless Possibilities and Exploration
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In just eight hours, countless adventures unfolded without focusing on the main quest. Experimenting with different builds and item interactions opened up a wealth of possibilities, whether using a shield and staff or heavy armor and melee weapons.
With numerous unanswered questions and unexplored systems, the journey is far from over. The path ahead is filled with hidden chests, untold stories, and forgotten treasures, showcasing why RPGs remain a captivating gaming genre.
