Reflecting on my initial experience with The Outer Worlds in 2019, I found myself grappling with disappointment. As an ardent fan of Fallout: New Vegas, the anticipation for a new game in a similar vein was palpable. However, upon its release, the retro aesthetic felt more like a relic than a revival, presenting a world that seemed diminished and less engaging. This sentiment was compounded by the timing of its launch, which coincided with the release of Disco Elysium, a game that redefined the RPG landscape with its innovative storytelling and gameplay mechanics. In contrast, The Outer Worlds appeared to lack fresh ideas, leaving me and many others to view it as a shadow of its predecessors.
Fast forward to my recent four-hour preview of Avowed, and I find myself in a different mindset. While some criticisms of the game still hold, this time it feels like a warm embrace, a nostalgic return to the classic RPG adventures that many of us cherish.
Further afield
As I delve into the enchanting Living Lands, the familiar tropes of RPGs are evident: shipwrecked with minimal gear, a hint of being the Chosen One, and a quest to heal a land plagued by magic. Yet, within a mere twenty minutes, I’m immersed in a complex political landscape, engaging with well-crafted characters, and making meaningful choices that resonate. This level of engagement stands in stark contrast to my experience with The Veilguard, where I felt little connection despite investing fifty hours.
The first-person perspective reminiscent of Bethesda’s style evokes memories of another recent title, Starfield. While that game offered a vast galaxy, it felt devoid of life and intrigue. The setting, grounded yet uninspiring, left me yearning for a vibrant fantasy world filled with dynamic events. Avowed answers that call, presenting a rich tapestry of adventure.
Playing Avowed is akin to slipping into a cherished old sweater—perhaps not the most fashionable choice, but undeniably comforting. After a brief tutorial, I’m free to explore a picturesque coastline, discovering the nuances of the world around me. Even with certain side quests unavailable during the preview, the environment is alive with stories waiting to be uncovered.
Interactions with NPCs reveal layers of narrative depth. A weapons vendor shares his personal woes, hinting at a fractured relationship, while a potion seller offers insight into their shared history. Finding an amulet belonging to the estranged couple leads to a subtle yet poignant opportunity for reconciliation, devoid of grand rewards but rich in emotional resonance.
As I traverse monster camps and ancient ruins, I encounter storytelling that captivates without overwhelming. Each discovery, whether it’s a spider’s lair or a note detailing a cruel initiation ritual, adds to the world’s texture. Dialogue options are clever and engaging, allowing for genuine expression rather than the simplistic Nice/Sarcastic/Mean choices found in other titles.
My decisions carry weight, whether I choose to confront a graverobber or liberate a smuggler from captivity. Each interaction feels significant, with my character’s history and choices shaping the narrative. Accompanied by my new companion, Kai—a swashbuckling fish man—I gain insights into the local culture and the impending impact of an encroaching empire. His cynical yet wistful perspective adds depth to our interactions, hinting at the complexities of the world we inhabit.
While Avowed may not revolutionize the RPG genre, it offers a well-crafted experience that stands apart from recent disappointments. The seasoned developers at Obsidian have a knack for creating politically charged environments, and their expertise shines through. There may not be grand ambitions driving the game, but the evident passion for RPG design and storytelling resonates deeply.
Some may wish for Avowed to be more than it is, despite the developers’ efforts to manage expectations. It may not be the most exhilarating or expansive title, but its timing could serve as a balm for RPG enthusiasts disillusioned by larger studios. While this may come across as faint praise, I eagerly anticipate exploring every nook and cranny of this world when the game launches in February.
