Avowed: A Delightful RPG That Captures the Spirit of Exploration
Avowed isn't a revolutionary game, but it's undeniably a charming RPG that will resonate deeply with exploration enthusiasts. The game successfully evokes the spirit of Morrowind, the iconic RPG that set a new standard for immersive digital worlds. Like Morrowind, Avowed imbues every element of its environment – rocks, bushes, mountains, even the ocean floor – with 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 welcomes players to a richly detailed world without demanding prior knowledge of the series. While familiarity with previous games enhances the experience, the narrative unfolds organically through dialogue 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 follow a cyclical journey, passing into oblivion after death and eventually returning through reincarnation. The protagonist is unique; touched by a god at birth (though the identity of the god remains a mystery), they bear peculiar growths resembling plants or fungi on their head, a feature that instills fear in some.
A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise
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The protagonist's arrival in the Living Lands is far from peaceful; their ship is attacked by deranged Aedyran guards. Reaching the port city of Paradise (a name both fitting and ironic), they encounter a city in disarray: high-ranking officials are missing, the gates are closed, and chaos reigns. This classic RPG setup sets the stage for adventure.
Exploration quickly reveals the sheer joy of uncovering hidden treasures. Early explorations included diving into the sea near the port, discovering sunken riches, and narrowly escaping a run-in with smugglers. The game encourages exploration, rewarding curiosity with quests and hidden details in every corner.
Treasures Beneath Every Stone
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One memorable moment involved breaking into a house, scaling scaffolding to reach a lighthouse, and discovering a treasure map, unique boots, and stunning views. The night brought further surprises as illuminated mushrooms revealed hidden paths.
The game's design ensures surprises abound. Hidden chests are found in sewers, coins in nests, and supplies on rooftops, behind waterfalls, and atop hills, each discovery leading to new quests, rare items, and intriguing narratives. Helping a grieving couple, retrieving a nobleman's ring (which unexpectedly boosted health regeneration), and battling a giant are just a few examples of the diverse encounters.
Stories Waiting to Be Discovered
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These moments of discovery are plentiful. Unexpected supplies lead to quests and rare relics. The game seamlessly blends exploration with compelling narratives, creating a rich and engaging experience. From helping those in need to facing formidable foes, the game constantly presents new challenges and rewards.
Endless Possibilities and Exploration
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Even after eight hours, the main questline remained largely untouched, highlighting the depth of the exploration experience. Experimenting with different character builds and item interactions further enhances the replayability. Whether using a shield and staff or heavy armor and melee weapons, each choice opens up new possibilities.
With numerous unanswered questions and unexplored systems, the journey in Avowed is far from complete. A wealth of hidden chests, untold stories, and forgotten treasures awaits. Avowed masterfully captures the essence of what makes RPGs so captivating.
