Avowed may not redefine the genre, but it’s a captivating RPG that ignites the spirit of exploration. It echoes the magic of Morrowind, the legendary RPG that set a benchmark for immersive worlds long before today’s standards took shape.
In Morrowind, every stone, shrub, peak, and seabed promised adventure. Obsidian Entertainment has embraced the challenge of reviving this sense of wonder, and early impressions suggest they’ve succeeded with flair.
Table of ContentThe World of Pillars of Eternity A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise Treasures Beneath Every Stone Stories Waiting to Be Discovered Endless Possibilities and Exploration 1 0 Comment on this
The World of Pillars of Eternity
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Rooted in the Pillars of Eternity universe, Avowed welcomes players to a vibrant, detailed world, accessible without prior knowledge of the series. While familiarity enriches the experience, the narrative unfolds seamlessly through dialogue and in-game cues.
The story centers on an emissary dispatched by the Emperor of Aedyr to the Living Lands to probe a strange fungal plague that corrupts souls and drives people to madness. In this world, souls cycle through life, fading into oblivion after death before reincarnating. The protagonist, marked at birth by a divine touch from an unknown god, bears plant-like or fungal growths on their head, sparking fear in some who cross their path.
A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise
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Upon reaching the Living Lands, the protagonist faces a turbulent arrival as their ship is ambushed by deranged Aedyran guards. Landing in the ironically named port city of Paradise, they find absent officials, locked gates, and rampant chaos—a classic RPG setup that feels instantly familiar.
Exploration soon reveals hidden riches. Diving into the sea near the port, I uncovered sunken treasures while barely escaping drowning. Later, I stumbled upon a smugglers’ hideout, overheard their schemes, and slipped away after being spotted. Back at the port, I eagerly took on quests, scouring every corner for secrets.
Treasures Beneath Every Stone
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A standout moment came when I broke into a locked house, looted its contents, and climbed scaffolding like a nimble adventurer to reach a lighthouse. There, I found a treasure map, rare yellow-tier boots with a unique history, and stunning vistas. As night fell, glowing mushrooms illuminated new paths and hidden secrets.
Surprises lurk everywhere. Beneath the lighthouse, a chest lay hidden in the sewers, shrouded in spiderwebs waiting to be cleared. Nearby, a nest perched on beams held coins, while a cliffside backpack brimmed with loot. Below, a sunlit skeleton rested, and an ice grenade frozen the water, letting me retrieve submerged treasures.
Stories Waiting to Be Discovered
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The game brims with moments of discovery. Supplies appear on rooftops, behind waterfalls, and atop hills, sparking new quests, rare artifacts, and compelling encounters. In the slums, I broke into a shack and met a blind man and his grieving wife, hunted by mercenaries. Elsewhere, I aided a nobleman in recovering a lost ring from a sewer, only to keep the health-boosting item for myself.
Another poignant moment involved finding two lovers who died together near a lift leading to the northern outskirts, where guards investigated a dead smuggler. Following the trail, I battled through a reptilian camp and faced a towering giant, putting my combat skills and gear to the test.
Endless Possibilities and Exploration
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In just eight hours, I embarked on countless adventures without touching the main questline or grinding repetitive tasks. Instead, I explored, tested diverse character builds, and experimented with item interactions. Whether wielding a shield and staff or donning heavy armor for melee combat, each choice unlocked fresh possibilities.
With mysteries still unsolved and systems yet to master, my journey in Avowed is far from complete. Hidden chests, untold tales, and forgotten treasures await, making this RPG a vivid reminder of why the genre continues to captivate gamers.
