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Avowed may not be a groundbreaking title, but it is a charming RPG that resonates deeply with fans of exploration. The game brings to mind the legendary Morrowind, an RPG that set new standards for immersive worlds long before today's benchmarks were established. In Morrowind, every element of the landscape, from rocks and bushes to mountains and the ocean floor, promised adventure. Obsidian Entertainment has embraced the challenge of recapturing this sense of discovery, and early impressions suggest they've done so with remarkable success.

The World of Pillars of Eternity

Set within the expansive universe of Pillars of Eternity, Avowed welcomes players into a meticulously crafted world, accessible even to those new to the series. While prior knowledge of the games can enrich the experience, the narrative unfolds seamlessly through in-game dialogue and contextual hints. The storyline follows an emissary, chosen by the Emperor of Aedyr, dispatched to the Living Lands to probe a mysterious fungal plague that corrupts souls and incites madness. In this realm, souls cycle through life, death, and reincarnation. The protagonist, marked by a divine touch at birth from an unknown god, bears peculiar growths resembling plants or fungi on their head, which can evoke fear in others.

A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise

Upon reaching the Living Lands, the protagonist faces a tumultuous arrival as their ship is assaulted by deranged Aedyran guards. Landing in the port city of Paradise—a name that feels both ironic and apt—the player encounters a city in disarray, with high-ranking officials missing and the gates sealed shut. This scenario will feel familiar to seasoned RPG enthusiasts. The joy of exploration quickly unfolds as players uncover hidden treasures. My initial foray led me to dive into the sea near the port, where I discovered submerged riches while narrowly escaping drowning. From there, I stumbled upon a smugglers' camp, eavesdropped on their plans, and narrowly escaped after being spotted. Back in the port, I eagerly accepted quests and began exploring every nook and cranny.

Treasures Beneath Every Stone

One standout moment involved breaking into a locked house, looting its contents, and then scaling scaffolding to reach a lighthouse. At the summit, I found a treasure map, rare yellow-tier boots with a unique backstory, and stunning vistas. As night fell, the surrounding mushrooms illuminated, revealing new paths and secrets. Every corner of the game world holds surprises. Beneath the lighthouse, in the sewers, lies a chest hidden under spiderwebs waiting to be burned away. Nearby, perched precariously on beams, sits a nest containing coins. On the edge of a cliff hangs a backpack filled with goodies, while below, a weary skeleton basks in the sun. Even throwing an ice grenade into the water freezes it temporarily, allowing me to retrieve submerged loot.

Stories Waiting to Be Discovered

These moments of discovery are plentiful throughout the game. Supplies appear unexpectedly on rooftops, behind waterfalls, and atop hills, leading to new quests, rare relics, and intriguing scenarios. For instance, while scavenging in the slums, I broke into a shack and met a blind man and his grieving wife, whose lives were threatened by mercenaries searching for them. Another time, I helped a nobleman retrieve a lost ring from a sewer, only to discover it boosted my health regeneration—a valuable item I decided to keep for myself. Another touching encounter involved finding two lovers who had died together, near a lift that led to northern outskirts where guards examined a dead smuggler. Following the trail further, I fought through a reptilian camp and faced off against a formidable giant, testing my combat skills and equipment.

Endless Possibilities and Exploration

In just eight hours of playtime, I experienced countless adventures without delving into the main questline or worrying about repetitive grinding. Instead, I focused on exploring, experimenting with different character builds, and learning how various items interacted. Whether wielding a shield and staff or switching to heavy armor and melee weapons, each choice opened new possibilities. With many questions still unanswered and plenty of systems left to explore, my journey in Avowed is far from over. Ahead lies a path of hidden chests, untold stories, and forgotten treasures. For now, the game offers an endless sequence of discoveries that remind me why RPGs remain one of gaming's most captivating genres.

Avowed Image: x.com