During the Xbox Games Showcase 2024 event, Obsidian Entertainment unveiled a new story trailer and gameplay deep dive for their upcoming RPG, Avowed. RPG Site had the opportunity to interview game director Carrie Patel and gameplay director Gabe Paramo for insights into Avowed’s world, gameplay, and characters. Here are the key takeaways from that interview.
Avowed is set in the world of Eora, the same universe as Pillars of Eternity, but it’s designed to welcome new players. The game is set a few years after the events of Deadfire. Players will assume the role of an envoy of Aedyr, directly sent by the Emperor, with a deeper connection to the world that unfolds over the course of the game.
The game’s structure is described as an “open zone” similar to The Outer Worlds, featuring different regions each containing critical paths and side quests. These regions unlock in a specific order, but players have the flexibility to backtrack. The narrative flow involves a mix of linear quests and branching narratives, allowing choices that impact both the overall story arc and individual quests.
Avowed boasts a dual-wielding combat system with a variety of one-handed weapons and gear, allowing players to mix and match tools. Companions add strategic depth to combat, performing basic attacks autonomously while players can execute special abilities. Additionally, the game includes a third-person mode developed alongside the first-person experience.
In terms of character development, Avowed employs a classless system, allowing players to experiment with different builds throughout the game. Players allocate points to six attributes: Might, Constitution, Dexterity, Perception, Intellect, and Resolve, which influence gameplay mechanics and dialogue options. Unique dialogue choices are available based on the player’s background, attributes, and past quest outcomes, without involving dice rolls.
Exploration and interaction are enhanced by companion abilities, which aid in unlocking certain paths and overcoming obstacles. Players have multiple ways to approach quests, whether through stealth, combat, or other creative methods. While there is no base-building mechanic, players will have a party camp where companions gather and interact.
Currently, the focus is on the base game, with no specific plans for expansions or DLCs announced. However, both Patel and Paramo expressed excitement about various aspects of the game. Patel is eager for players to explore the world’s colorful and grounded elements, with distinct regions offering varied experiences. Paramo highlighted the game’s combat mechanics, including the Grimoire system and the depth of customization options available to players.
Avowed will be available for PC via Steamand will also arrive on Xbox Series X/S. From the first day, it will also be available as part of Xbox Game Pass sometime this year.
English (UK) 
Hrvatski