Avowed: Morrowind's Spiritual Successor Unveiled

Avowed isn't a revolutionary game, but it's a delightful RPG that will capture the hearts of exploration enthusiasts. It evokes the spirit of Morrowind, that iconic RPG which redefined immersive worlds long before modern standards. Morrowind promised adventure everywhere—in every rock, bush, mountain, and even the ocean floor. Obsidian Entertainment has masterfully recreated that sense of discovery in Avowed.

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

Set in the richly detailed world of Pillars of Eternity, Avowed welcomes players regardless of their familiarity with the series. While prior knowledge enhances the experience, the story unfolds organically through gameplay and conversations. You play an emissary chosen by the Emperor of Aedyr, sent to the Living Lands to investigate a mysterious fungal plague driving people mad. In this world, souls have a life cycle, passing into oblivion and eventually reincarnating. The protagonist is unique, touched at birth by one of the gods—though which remains a mystery. This divine touch manifests as unusual growths on their head, causing fear in some.

A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise

Arrival in the Living Lands is anything but peaceful. The protagonist's ship is attacked by crazed Aedyran guards. Reaching the port city of Paradise (ironic, yet fitting), you find chaos reigns: high-ranking officials are missing, the gates are closed, and the city is in disarray. A classic RPG setup, perfectly executed.

Exploration immediately reveals the game's charm. My first foray was into the sea near the port, where I discovered sunken treasure (while narrowly avoiding a watery grave!). I then stumbled upon a smugglers' camp, overheard their plans, and made a hasty retreat after being spotted. Back in the port, I eagerly accepted quests and explored every corner.

Treasures Beneath Every Stone

One highlight: breaking into a locked house, looting its contents, and then scaling scaffolding to reach a lighthouse. The reward? A treasure map, rare boots with a unique history, and stunning views. As night fell, the glowing mushrooms revealed hidden paths and secrets. This is just a taste of the surprises awaiting. Under the lighthouse, in the sewers, a chest lay hidden under spiderwebs (easily dealt with using fire). Nearby, a nest on precarious beams held coins. A backpack full of goodies hung from a cliff edge, with a sun-baked skeleton below. Even throwing an ice grenade into the water temporarily froze it, allowing me to retrieve submerged loot.

Stories Waiting to Be Discovered

These moments of discovery are constant. Supplies appear unexpectedly—on rooftops, behind waterfalls, atop hills—leading to new quests, rare relics, and intriguing scenarios. In the slums, I broke into a shack and met a blind man and his grieving wife, threatened by mercenaries. I helped a nobleman retrieve a lost ring from a sewer (which, conveniently, boosted my health regeneration!). I found two lovers who had died together, near a lift leading to the northern outskirts where guards examined a dead smuggler. This led to a reptilian camp and a fight with a formidable giant, testing my skills and equipment.

Endless Possibilities and Exploration

In just eight hours, I experienced countless adventures without even touching the main questline. I focused on exploration, experimenting with character builds and item interactions. Whether wielding a shield and staff or heavy armor and melee weapons, each choice opened up new possibilities. With many unanswered questions and unexplored systems, my journey is far from over. Ahead lies a path of hidden chests, untold stories, and forgotten treasures. Avowed delivers a constant stream of discoveries, reminding us why RPGs remain so captivating.