Avowed is a first-person fantasy RPG developed by Obsidian Entertainment. Set in Eora through the Pillars of Eternity franchise, it promises a deeper dive into its lore, serving as a prequel. The sprawling open world encompasses two major cities and diverse zones reminiscent of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

Avowed focuses on a more serious narrative-driven experience. The companion system, a core focus, intertwines character backstories with the main storyline, creating a richer, more engaging fantasy narrative. This heightened focus on storytelling extends to the combat mechanics. The game offers sword and magic gameplay, depending on your preferred play style.

A story-driven fantasy game for modern times

Avowed immerses players in the Living Lands of Eora, a region rife with ancient mysteries and a spreading Dream Scourge. As an envoy, you need to navigate diverse biomes, from lush forests to arid deserts, engaging in dynamic combat that blends melee, magic, and firearms. Skill trees enable customizable playstyles and companions. While not a fully open world like Skyrim, it features large, explorable zones, prioritizing narrative and character-driven experiences.

It also introduces firearms, adding a unique layer to its first-person combat. The mix-and-match possibilities between melee, ranged, and magic skills give a more dynamic and customizable system. Its commitment to physics simulation, particularly with magic, is a real standout feature. Spells are expected to interact with the environment in realistic ways. The real-time weather system, with a significant emphasis on fog, enhances the atmosphere and adds a layer of unpredictability. 

The game’s updated AI systems aim to create a more reactive and immersive world, particularly regarding weather. It doesn't shy away from its roots. The lore is also rich through its Aedyran language and the presence of Woedica's symbol, complementing its original elements. Talking about the game’s design, its overall art style is fresh yet still familiar. The soundtrack is atmospheric and diverse, while the controls are moderately complicated at times.

A well-built fantasy game

While the game draws clear inspiration from other action RPGs, including its lineage, it aims to deliver a distinct experience. The combination of compelling storytelling, dynamic combat, and a reactive world makes it a decent game. However, the similarities may hinder the game's ability to feel unique. Thankfully, its support for older hardware makes this accessible for many players who wish to play this without the need for a new rig.