Avowed Review: Obsidian's Fantasy RPG Delivers Deep Storytelling

Obsidian Entertainment returns to the world of Eora with Avowed, a first-person action RPG set in the same universe as Pillars of Eternity. After years of anticipation, does the studio known for Fallout: New Vegas and The Outer Worlds deliver another classic?

Welcome to the Living Lands

Avowed takes place in the Living Lands, a frontier region of Eora filled with strange creatures, ancient ruins, and colonizers seeking fortune. You play as an envoy of the Aedyr Empire, sent to investigate a mysterious plague affecting the region.

What starts as a simple investigation spirals into a grand adventure involving gods, souls, and the nature of reality itself—classic Obsidian territory.

The Writing Shines

If you're coming to Avowed for Obsidian's legendary writing, you won't be disappointed. The companions are memorable, the factions are morally complex, and your choices genuinely matter. Multiple endings and significant branching paths encourage multiple playthroughs.

Combat: Better Than Expected

Avowed's first-person combat exceeded our expectations:

• Dual wielding: Mix melee and magic in each hand
• Grimoire system: Hotswap spell loadouts mid-combat
• Companion synergy: Coordinate abilities with party members
• Enemy variety: Creatures require different strategies

The Verdict

Avowed doesn't try to be Skyrim or The Witcher 3—it's a more focused, story-driven RPG that plays to Obsidian's strengths. If you want branching narratives, memorable companions, and genuine moral complexity, Avowed delivers. It's an excellent addition to Game Pass and a strong start for what will hopefully become a new franchise.