Avowed: A Promising Addition to the RPG Genre
Avowed, the upcoming first-person RPG from Obsidian, is generating a lot of excitement, and for good reason. Set to release on February 18 for Xbox and PC, this game is sure to scratch that Skyrim itch that many fans have been longing for. During a demo at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, Avowed showcased its stunning visuals and intriguing gameplay mechanics.
Visually, Avowed is a step above its predecessors. The demo took place in a vibrant and colorful cave, a departure from the dark and dreary dungeons typically seen in The Elder Scrolls series. The brilliant purples, greens, and blues brought the cave to life, making exploration all the more enticing. The attention to detail was impressive, with even the smallest spaces filled with intricate designs, ensuring that nothing looked drab or boring.
When it comes to combat, Avowed stays true to the familiar mechanics found in Skyrim while adding some exciting new elements. In the demo, players had the option to play as a stealthy rogue armed with pistols and a bow. The pistols, a new addition to the genre, were powerful and slow to reload but allowed for dual-wielding. Unlike traditional firearms, the pistols didn’t require ammunition, eliminating the need to constantly scavenge for bullets. The companion character in Avowed also proved to be more useful than in Skyrim, with the ability to perform powerful moves and act as a distraction, allowing for strategic gameplay.
While combat with pistols was enjoyable, the magic user class felt slightly underwhelming in the demo. Although the spells looked impressive, relying on mana and having to drink potions mid-fight added an unnecessary hassle. However, it’s important to note that this was only a small demo, and the final game will likely offer more powerful and efficient magic builds.
What sets Avowed apart from other RPGs is its strong emphasis on player choice and role-playing. The demo featured an encounter with a character constructing a giant statue of a god, and players had the option to either help him or oppose his plans. The dialogue trees allowed for unique options based on the character’s background and intellect, adding depth to the role-playing experience. Additionally, Avowed introduces a helpful feature that highlights important names and places in the game, making it easier for players to keep track of the vast lore.
Overall, Avowed seems to be shaping up as the RPG fans have been waiting for. It offers a visually stunning world, engaging combat mechanics, and a strong focus on player choice and role-playing. While it may resemble Skyrim in certain aspects, Avowed brings enough new ideas to the table to stand out and create its own identity. RPG enthusiasts can look forward to diving into this immersive world when Avowed launches next year.
