blacksmithing Archives

AppWizard

February 20, 2026

Obsidian was ‘surprised’ that Avowed players bounced off one of the RPG’s most important systems: ‘That frustration came through loud and clear’

Avowed's crafting system initially faced criticism for making upgrades mandatory, requiring players to gather materials for weapons and armor, which hindered exploration. In response to player feedback, Obsidian Entertainment implemented changes in an anniversary update, refining the progression system to allow for a more gradual experience. Custom difficulty modifiers were introduced, enabling players to adjust game elements like merchant prices and upgrade material costs. Additionally, workbenches were added throughout the game world, allowing players to enhance equipment without returning to camp, making gear acquisition and upgrades more accessible.

AppWizard

January 16, 2026

There’s a fantasy swordsmithing sim launching on Steam next week, which is a sentence I’ve been waiting to hear since browsing my dad’s replica sword catalogs in 4th grade

The author grew up in an environment focused on historical reenactment and fantasy lore, influenced by a father who collected period costumes and bladed weaponry. They eagerly anticipate the early access launch of "Bladesong," a fantasy swordsmithing simulator set to debut on Steam on January 22. The game allows players to craft swords with various features, including length, width, thickness, and cross-section, and includes a story mode set in a medieval post-apocalyptic world. The early access version will offer additional engraving options, materials, and blade shaping techniques.