Development Insights on Avowed’s Early Gameplay
In a recent conversation with Berto Ritger, the regional director of Obsidian, the focus was primarily on the remarkable level design and exploration aspects of the upcoming game, Avowed. However, Ritger also shared intriguing insights into the evolution of the game’s early stages during its development.
Initially, players were set to begin their journey on the docks of Dawnshore, a choice that ultimately proved to be too linear. “We realized that we needed to open it up more,” Ritger explained. The original introduction failed to immerse players in the world and its combat mechanics swiftly enough. The tutorialization of various gameplay mechanics was not unfolding in the engaging manner that players expect at the start of an adventure.
One particularly amusing element that was considered for inclusion was a nod to the Elder Scrolls series, specifically the character Tarhiel, who famously meets his demise shortly after attempting the spell “Icarian Flight.” This spell, which launches the caster into the air without any assurance of a safe landing, not only provided a humorous moment but also served as an introduction to the open-ended and potentially perilous nature of magic and spellcrafting within the Morrowind universe.
Ritger confirmed that Tarhiel’s ill-fated attempt was indeed a significant reference point for Avowed’s own pyromancer character. “He was exactly the touch point,” Ritger noted, highlighting the creative connections that span across the games. However, during playtesting, it became clear that both the original opening sequence and the chaotic nature of the pyromancer’s spell would lead to an unreliable introduction to the game’s mechanics. Players could easily stray from the intended path, missing essential tutorials that are crucial for understanding the gameplay.
This realization underscores a common trend in open-world game design: the necessity of beginning with a more structured sequence. While the comedic potential of the pyromancer’s failure may not make it into the final version, the aftermath and the discoveries that await players in Avowed promise to deliver a rich and entertaining experience, filled with delightful surprises.
