Why Avowed Could Be the RPG We’ve All Been Waiting For

Why Avowed Could Be the RPG We’ve All Been Waiting For

Every so often, a game comes along that feels like a comforting return to roots—a celebration of what made us fall in love with the genre in the first place. Obsidian Entertainment’s upcoming RPG, Avowed, might just be that game. At a time when some big-budget RPGs have struggled to capture the magic (*looking at you, Starfield and Dragon Age: The Veilguard), Avowed seems poised to remind us why we love exploring fantastical worlds, making meaningful choices, and forging our own adventures.

Classic RPG Charm, Modern Craftsmanship

Set in the richly detailed Pillars of Eternity universe, Avowed brings us to the Living Lands, a vibrant and politically charged island plagued by mystery, magic, and danger. From the moment you’re shipwrecked, the game presents a world brimming with potential, full of tough decisions, nuanced characters, and stories waiting to be uncovered.

Yes, the setup feels familiar—you're the Chosen One battling a magical plague—but there’s a charm in its execution. Within minutes of starting the game, you’re immersed in a conflict with no clear good or evil sides, meeting well-developed characters, and making choices that matter. Obsidian’s mastery of political intrigue and narrative complexity shines through, making even the most trope-filled moments feel fresh and engaging.

Why Timing Matters

Avowed isn’t trying to reinvent the RPG wheel. Instead, it offers something that feels timeless and comforting, especially in contrast to recent disappointments. While some modern RPGs have focused on flashy visuals or streamlined mechanics, often at the expense of compelling storytelling (The Veilguard, we’re looking at you), Avowed leans into what makes RPGs great: player agency, detailed worldbuilding, and meaningful exploration.

In a year without a groundbreaking RPG like Disco Elysium, the timing for Avowed couldn’t be better. It’s the antidote to sprawling but lifeless worlds like Starfield, offering a dense, lived-in setting full of discovery, personality, and choice. Whether you’re solving the personal drama of a feuding couple or uncovering a smuggler’s secret, Avowed makes every moment feel like it belongs to you.

A World That Feels Alive

Obsidian has a knack for creating worlds that breathe. Avowed captures this perfectly through its attention to detail. You’ll find compelling stories in the smallest corners of the map—a simple amulet tucked away in a ruin might lead to a heartfelt reunion, while a bear’s den could reveal a cruel initiation ritual gone wrong. These moments add depth and humanity, drawing you further into the Living Lands.

The game’s dialogue also stands out, offering choices that are clever, humorous, and impactful. From outsmarting guards to defining your past relationships, every interaction feels tailored to your playstyle. It’s a far cry from the binary “Nice or Mean” options of other games, giving you genuine agency in shaping your character’s journey.

The Right Game at the Right Time

Let’s not overhype things—Avowed isn’t trying to be the next Baldur’s Gate 3 in terms of scale or ambition. But it doesn’t need to be. Instead, it’s a well-crafted, thoughtfully designed RPG that knows its strengths and plays to them. It’s a game made by veterans who clearly love the genre, and that passion is evident in every detail.

For fans disillusioned by recent RPG missteps, Avowed feels like a warm, nostalgic hug. It may not be revolutionary, but it doesn’t need to be—it’s here to remind us of the simple joys of exploring a fantastical world, making hard choices, and uncovering hidden stories.

Mark Your Calendar

With Avowed launching this February, it’s shaping up to be the perfect RPG to kick off the year. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Obsidian’s work or just looking for a classic adventure to sink your teeth into, this game promises a refreshing escape into a world where your choices truly matter.

Prepare your spells, sharpen your blades, and get ready to explore the Living Lands. Avowed is coming—and it just might be exactly what we need. #ad