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, a classic RPG that set the standard for immersive worlds long before modern gaming conventions. Like Morrowind, every corner of Avowed's world – from rocks and bushes to the ocean floor – promises 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 immerses players in a richly detailed world accessible even to newcomers. While prior knowledge of the series 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 investigate a mysterious fungal plague in the Living Lands, a plague that corrupts souls and drives people to madness. In this world, souls follow a cyclical journey, passing into oblivion and eventually reincarnating. The protagonist is unique, touched at birth by a god – though their identity remains a mystery. This divine mark manifests as unusual plant-like 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; their ship is attacked by deranged Aedyran guards. Reaching the port city of Paradise (a fittingly ironic name), they find chaos reigns: high-ranking officials are missing, the city gates are sealed, and pandemonium prevails – a classic RPG trope executed well.
Exploration quickly reveals the game's rewarding treasure-hunting aspect. Early gameplay involved diving into the sea near the port, uncovering sunken riches while narrowly avoiding a watery grave. This led to a chance encounter with smugglers, eavesdropping on their nefarious plans before making a hasty retreat. Back in the port, quests were readily accepted, and a thorough exploration of every nook and cranny commenced.
Treasures Beneath Every Stone
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One standout moment involved breaking into a house, looting its contents, and then scaling scaffolding to reach a lighthouse. The reward? A treasure map, unique yellow-tier boots with a compelling history, and stunning panoramic views. As darkness fell, the bioluminescent mushrooms illuminated hidden pathways and secrets.
The world is brimming with surprises. Hidden beneath the lighthouse, in the sewers, a chest lay concealed beneath spiderwebs, requiring a quick burn to access. Nearby, a precarious nest held coins, while a cliff edge held a backpack brimming with loot, and below, a sun-bleached skeleton lay resting. Even an ice grenade thrown into the water provided a temporary ice bridge to retrieve submerged items.
Stories Waiting to Be Discovered
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Such moments of discovery are plentiful. Supplies unexpectedly appear on rooftops, behind waterfalls, and atop hills, often leading to new quests, rare artifacts, and intriguing narratives. One instance involved encountering a blind man and his grieving wife, threatened by mercenaries, in the slums. Another involved retrieving a nobleman's ring from a sewer, a ring that unexpectedly boosted health regeneration.
Another poignant encounter involved two deceased lovers, near a lift leading to the northern outskirts where guards examined a dead smuggler. Following this trail further led to a reptilian camp and a battle with a formidable giant, putting combat skills and equipment to the test.
Endless Possibilities and Exploration
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In just eight hours, countless adventures unfolded without focusing on the main questline or repetitive grinding. The focus was on exploration, experimenting with different character builds, and observing item interactions. Whether wielding a shield and staff or heavy armor and melee weapons, each choice unlocked new possibilities.
With many 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 continuous stream of discoveries, reminding us why RPGs remain a captivating gaming genre.
