Avowed Archives

AppWizard

April 4, 2025

The Nintendo Switch 2 almost makes PC gaming look cheap

The Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: As the gaming landscape evolves, the Nintendo Switch 2 emerges with a price tag of 0, a significant shift from Nintendo's historical position as the budget-friendly option in console gaming. This new pricing places it squarely in the middle of the market, prompting a reevaluation of what consumers can expect for their money. At first glance, the Switch 2 may not seem overly expensive, but when compared to the world of PC gaming, it begins to look rather pricey. Savvy gamers can find numerous options that allow them to enjoy a plethora of titles at a fraction of the cost. This includes not only indie games but also brand-new AAA releases that can run on more affordable hardware. No power, no problem It’s important to acknowledge that while PC gaming hardware can be prohibitively expensive, the landscape has changed significantly. The cost of a new graphics card can rival that of a console, and building a gaming desktop or purchasing a gaming laptop often comes with a hefty price tag. However, integrated graphics have improved remarkably, enabling many users to play recent AAA games without the need for high-end hardware. For instance, titles like Cyberpunk 2077 can be enjoyed on the latest integrated graphics found in laptops. For those looking to enter the gaming scene without breaking the bank, options abound. Budget laptops and mini PCs, particularly those featuring AMD’s Ryzen APUs, provide a wealth of choices. The Steam Deck, inspired by the original Nintendo Switch, has carved out a niche in the market, offering a competitive alternative that allows gamers to enjoy new releases at a lower price point. Despite its limited sales compared to the Switch, the Steam Deck has become a significant player, with developers increasingly considering its compatibility when launching new titles. Who needs hardware anyway? For those who already own PC games but are hesitant to invest in new hardware, streaming services present a viable solution. Microsoft’s Game Pass, often dubbed the “Netflix of gaming,” allows users to access a vast library of games for a monthly fee, with the added benefit of streaming capabilities across various devices, including PCs, browsers, and even mobile phones. While Game Pass has its limitations, such as a rotating selection of available titles and a subscription cost of around per month, it offers flexibility that traditional gaming does not. Players can dip in and out of the service, trying new games without the commitment of a full purchase. For example, a recent exploration of the RPG Avowed and the indie title 33 Immortals showcased the breadth of options available without a hefty investment. Additionally, Nvidia’s GeForce Now provides another avenue for gamers looking to maximize their existing library without the need for new hardware. This service allows users to stream games they already own across multiple platforms, making it an attractive option for those who want to experience the latest titles without upgrading their systems. Who’s it for? While the allure of Nintendo’s exclusive titles remains strong, particularly with the upcoming Mario Kart and Donkey Kong releases, the current economic climate makes the Switch 2’s pricing a tough pill to swallow for many gamers. With the cost of new consoles and games rising, the PC gaming market offers a glimmer of hope for those seeking quality gaming experiences without the financial strain. The ability to play a wide range of games without significant hardware investment is an appealing prospect in today’s gaming environment." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"], marking a shift from Nintendo's historical budget-friendly approach in console gaming. This pricing positions it in the middle of the market, prompting consumers to reassess value. Compared to PC gaming, the Switch 2 appears pricey, as many gamers find cheaper options for playing a variety of titles, including indie and AAA games, on more affordable hardware. Integrated graphics have improved, allowing recent AAA games to be played without high-end hardware. Budget laptops and mini PCs, especially those with AMD’s Ryzen APUs, offer cost-effective gaming solutions. The Steam Deck provides a competitive alternative to the Switch, despite lower sales. Streaming services like Microsoft’s Game Pass and Nvidia’s GeForce Now allow gamers to access a library of games without needing new hardware. The upcoming Nintendo titles maintain interest, but the Switch 2's pricing may deter some consumers amid rising costs in the gaming market.

AppWizard

March 31, 2025

At one point, Avowed would have taught us to use magic with an explosive Elder Scrolls reference: ‘How about we just have a guy on the road that blows himself up’

Berto Ritger, the regional director of Obsidian, discussed the early development of Avowed, noting that the initial starting point on the docks of Dawnshore was too linear and did not effectively immerse players in the world or its combat mechanics. The tutorialization of gameplay elements was not engaging enough. A humorous reference to the Elder Scrolls character Tarhiel, who fails at using the spell "Icarian Flight," was considered for the game, serving as an introduction to the nature of magic. However, playtesting revealed that both the original opening sequence and the chaotic nature of the pyromancer's spell could lead to players missing essential tutorials. This highlighted the need for a more structured beginning in open-world game design.

AppWizard

March 30, 2025

Obsidian snuck goodies and secrets around every corner to make exploring Avowed feel worthwhile: ‘If you have a lot of dead ends that lead nowhere, you learn the lesson as a player: This game doesn’t have much to offer me’

The game Avowed rewards players for exploration by embedding hidden treasures throughout its environments, including vendor items and upgrade materials. It features a parkour system that encourages players to explore vertically-oriented levels without restrictions, leading to unexpected discoveries. Notable secrets include a concealed sewer beneath the starting docks with challenging enemies and a unique item, as well as a chest in Shatterscarp that has a creative loot interaction. The game is designed to ensure that exploration leads to meaningful discoveries, countering the negative impact of dead ends. The team aims to provide worthwhile rewards for side paths and explorations, fostering curiosity among players. Avowed is considered a strong contender for game of the year, and there are hints of potential DLC and a future release of The Outer Worlds 2 in 2025.

AppWizard

March 24, 2025

3 times Microsoft has tried (and failed) to reinvent PC gaming

Microsoft has faced criticism from the PC gaming community due to frequent Windows updates causing crashes and altering features. The Universal Windows Platform (UWP), introduced in the mid-2010s to unify operating systems, faced backlash from gamers for restricting access to game files and complicating third-party software use. Many developers bypassed UWP, leading Microsoft to reintroduce Win32 games by 2019. DirectX 10 was exclusive to Windows Vista, resulting in only 87 games being developed for it due to the unpopularity of Vista and lack of backward compatibility. Games for Windows Live (GFWL) aimed to bring Xbox Live to PC but became frustrating due to its closed ecosystem, leading to accessibility issues and unplayable titles after server shutdowns. Microsoft has since improved the gaming experience on Windows, focusing on user choice and compatibility, with features like Auto HDR and DirectStorage integrated into Windows 11.

AppWizard

March 23, 2025

The best games to play in 2025, so far

In 2025, the gaming landscape features a mix of innovative titles and new iterations of beloved franchises. The standout games, each rated four stars or higher, include: - WWE 2K25: Offers an immersive wrestling experience with a talented roster and innovative modes, though it has monetization strategies that may frustrate fans. - Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii: Revitalizes the Yakuza series with engaging mechanics and a captivating pirate adventure narrative. - Sniper Elite: Resistance: Set in World War II France, it enhances the sniping experience with multiplayer modes and a strategic narrative. - Dynasty Warriors Origins: Features epic battles and refined combat mechanics, creating a thrilling atmosphere. - Wanderstop: A simulation game about a former champion fighter running a tea shop, blending whimsical gameplay with a narrative about personal growth. - Civilization 7: Enhances the 4X formula with stunning visuals and new mechanics, making it accessible for newcomers and rewarding for veterans. - Avowed: Set in the Pillars of Eternity universe, it emphasizes rich storytelling and exploration. - Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector: Enhances narrative depth and introduces new gameplay mechanics, creating a thrilling experience. - Assassin's Creed Shadows: Combines stealth and RPG elements in a beautifully crafted Sengoku-era Japan setting. - Kingdom Come Deliverance 2: Features a detailed open world and engaging quests, rewarding players for overcoming challenges. - Two Point Museum: A humorous simulation game where players build and manage a quirky museum, adding layers of strategy. - Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – Tape One: Introduces a dual timeline for enriched storytelling and innovative mechanics. - Split Fiction: A cooperative game with a blend of genres and gameplay styles, promoting teamwork in a visually stunning world. - Monster Hunter Wilds: Refines the series' core loop with thrilling hunts and gear crafting, emphasizing dynamic combat and immersive environments.

AppWizard

March 7, 2025

All the Avowed ending choices and epilogue-affecting decisions

Game director Carrie Patel has indicated that Avowed features multiple endings influenced by key choices and smaller decisions throughout the game. The main decision involves whether to kill or spare Sapadal, which affects the ending slides. Sparing Sapadal while encouraging her darker impulses does not lead to a "vengeful" ending slide, but providing her with the Adra mech during Sargamis' quest results in a unique slide showing her peaceful use of it. Killing Sapadal aligns with the original pantheon of Eora and ends the Dreamscourge, similar to sparing her. Merging with Sapadal leads to a darker outcome where she overtakes the player's personality, also resulting in the Dreamscourge's defeat. In the Living Lands, players can achieve different outcomes based on their choices during the council. Siding with Lödwyn and achieving the Steel Garrote ending requires specific prior actions; otherwise, players may be executed as traitors. An Aedyran colony outcome results in direct control over the Living Lands, while a "gréfram" allows for partial colonization with some governance retained. Advocating for an independent Living Lands leads to favorable outcomes for certain characters but leaves others in uncertain situations. Optional quests can also influence the ending slides, such as Giatta's career path, Yatzli's fate depending on her choices, Marius's contentment based on quest completion, and Kai's grim fate if his quest is unfinished. Each of Kai's positive outcomes can lead to a romantic epilogue if interest is expressed.

AppWizard

March 4, 2025

The PC game releases we’re most excited about in March

February featured notable PC game releases including Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Civilization 7, Avowed, and Monster Hunter Wilds. In March, key releases include Assassin's Creed Shadows and Inzoi. Significant release dates for March are as follows: - March 3: Carmen Sandiego - She's back, but where? (Steam) - March 4: Grimoire Groves - Cozy dungeon crawler (Steam) - March 4: Merchants of Rosewall - Run a fantasy shop (Steam) - March 4: Knights in Tight Spaces - Close-quarters tactics (Steam) - March 5: Air - Visual novel classic (Steam) - March 6: Chernobylite 2: Exclusion Zone - Post-apocalyptic ARPG (Steam) - March 6: Book Bound - Run a bookshop (Steam) - March 6: FragPunk - 5v5 Valorant-style hero shooter (Steam) - March 6: MainFrames - Platformer set in an operating system (Steam) - March 7: Lost Lullabies (Early Access) - '80s inspired co-op horror (Steam) - March 7: Sugardew Island - Similar to a certain valley (Steam) - March 6: Suikoden 1&2 HD Remaster - A classic Konami remaster (Steam) - March 10: Rise of the Ronin - A PS exclusive comes to PC (Steam) - March 11: Wanderstop - An existential cozy game (Steam) - March 14: WWE 2K25 - Annual pro wrestling game (Steam) - March 14: Out of the Park Baseball 26 - Baseball management (Steam) - March 18: 33 Immortals - 33-player roguelike (Epic) - March 18: MySims - Updated Sims spin-off from 2007 (Steam) - March 20: Atelier Yumia - Open world crafting RPG (Steam) - March 20: Mudborne - Not a muddy Bloodborne, it's about frogs (Steam) - March 25: SOPA - Adventure in search of a potato (Steam) - March 25: Tales of the Shire - Hobbit life sim (Steam) - March 25: Nordhold - Tower defense (Steam) - March 26: Mother Machine - Co-op platformer (Steam) - March 26: JDM: Japanese Drift Master - Drift racer (Steam) - March 27: AI Limit - Post-apocalyptic, sci-fi ARPG (Steam) - March 27: As We Descend - Roguelike deckbuilder (Steam) - March 27: The First Berserker: Khazan - "Hardcore" ARPG (Steam) - March 27: Mini Royale - Green army men battle royale (Steam)

AppWizard

March 1, 2025

Avowed’s rarest ending has only been seen by 0.2% of players and demands you make the correct choice at every major quest to not get your head chopped off

In Avowed, players can achieve a challenging ending known as the Steel Garrote Ending by making specific pro-Aedyr, pro-Lödwyn, or anti-Sapadal choices. Key decisions include eliminating Ygwulf, allowing the Steel Garrote to incinerate Fior, permitting Kostya to destroy Solace Keep, and dispatching Sapadal. Successfully aligning with Lödwyn grants the "Tyranny" achievement, held by only 0.2% of players on Steam, and results in her granting knighthood instead of killing the player character. However, this choice leads to all companions abandoning the player, and the ending depicts Lödwyn's oppressive vision for the Living Lands. The game emphasizes the impact of player choices, though it lacks the systemic interactions found in Baldur's Gate 3. The project director has hinted at potential sequels or downloadable content.

AppWizard

February 26, 2025

Avowed’s inert cities remind me just how good we had it in Skyrim and Oblivion

The author transformed their character in Avowed into a stealth-mage assassin, finding the game captivating due to its distinct biomes, dungeons, and side quests. The first-person perspective and gameplay mechanics reminded them of the Elder Scrolls series, despite Avowed being simpler and smaller in scale. They noted imperfections in the game's portrayal of a vibrant world, such as the lack of consequences for stealing from NPCs and rigid animation loops, which detracted from immersion. An example included an NPC chastising the author for rummaging through her backpack without repercussions. The author suggested that narrative justification for thefts could enhance coherence in the game's world. They acknowledged that Obsidian prioritizes story over emergent gameplay, contrasting it with Bethesda's approach. The author reminisced about the interactivity and NPC reactions in earlier RPGs like Baldur's Gate 2, Planescape: Torment, and The Witcher 3, expressing a yearning for the freedom and consequences present in those games.

AppWizard

February 25, 2025

CHARTS: Monster Hunter Wilds pre-orders rise to second place on Steam

Pre-orders for Monster Hunter Wilds have surged, making it the second highest grossing item on Steam as of the week ending February 25th. Counter-Strike 2 remains the top performer, while the Steam Deck has risen three spots. Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 is steady at No. 4, and PUBG: Battlegrounds has climbed to No. 5. Avowed debuted at No. 6, Marvel Rivals is at No. 7, and Civilization 7 dropped to No. 8. Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii debuted at No. 9, and Apex Legends rounds out the Top Ten.