Avowed: The Overlooked Gem That Deserves a Second Look
Here’s a bold statement: Avowed might just be one of the most underrated RPGs of recent years, and its arrival on PS5 with significant upgrades is the perfect opportunity to give it the spotlight it deserves. Originally released on Xbox and PC over a year ago, this Obsidian-crafted adventure has quietly evolved into something special—and after diving into its PS5 version, we’re convinced it’s worth your attention.
But here’s where it gets controversial... While Avowed was clearly designed to appeal to fans of The Elder Scrolls series, it’s not just a carbon copy. Instead, it blends the rich lore of Obsidian’s Pillars of Eternity universe with fast-paced, action-driven gameplay, creating something that feels both familiar and fresh. Think of it as a love letter to open-world RPGs, but with a twist—and that’s where the debate begins. Is it too derivative, or does it carve out its own identity? Let’s dig in.
At its core, Avowed is an approachable RPG, structured around exploring vast open zones, uncovering quests in bustling cities, and battling your way through a vibrant, monster-filled countryside. It’s a formula we’ve seen before, but what sets it apart is its emphasis on player agency. You play as the Envoy, a customizable representative of the Aedyr Empire tasked with taming the untamed Living Lands. While the main plot is interesting, it’s admittedly predictable—but and this is the part most people miss—it’s the side quests and moral gray areas that truly shine. These choices feel meaningful, allowing you to shape your character’s personality and influence the world in ways that go beyond the main story.
Now, here’s the kicker: The Living Lands is breathtaking. Obsidian’s art team has outdone themselves, crafting one of the most enchanting fantasy worlds in recent memory. From lush forests to sprawling ruins, every corner of this frontier feels alive. But—and this is where opinions might clash—its inhabitants don’t always live up to the splendor of their surroundings. The dialogue system, though functional, feels rigid, and the character animations can come across as robotic. Worse yet, the writing often falls flat, lacking the spark that makes you truly care about the characters or their struggles.
Don’t get us wrong—Avowed isn’t a poorly written game. It’s just... safe. Too safe. The conversations, especially with quest-givers, can feel bland and uninspired, as if they were pulled from a generic RPG template. But here’s the silver lining: your dialogue options as the Envoy add a much-needed layer of personality. Want to be a hero? Go for it. Prefer to be a total jerk? The choice is yours. While these choices rarely have long-term consequences, they make conversations feel more dynamic and engaging.
But here’s the real question: Does the gameplay make up for the storytelling shortcomings? In a word: yes. Avowed’s combat system is where it truly excels. It’s weighty, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re swinging a sword, casting spells, or combining both, the combat feels impactful in a way that few RPGs manage. Imagine Skyrim with a serious punch, and you’re close. Add in a variety of monsters, challenging boss battles, and a loot system that keeps you hunting for upgrades, and you’ve got a gameplay loop that remains engaging even 50 hours in.
The PS5 version takes this even further with new difficulty and accessibility options. You can now fine-tune the challenge to suit your playstyle, smoothing out some of the game’s rougher edges. For instance, the much-criticized equipment upgrade system—which often felt like a barrier to progression—can now be adjusted to your liking. It’s a small change, but it makes a world of difference.
Obsidian has clearly listened to player feedback, and the Anniversary Update is a testament to that. New Game+, additional playable races, a photo mode, and quality-of-life improvements all add up to a more polished, complete experience. It’s safe to say PS5 players are getting the definitive version of Avowed.
So, here’s the million-dollar question: Is Avowed a masterpiece? Not quite. Its story, characters, and writing are solid but unremarkable. Yet, its gameplay—the combat, exploration, and player freedom—elevate it to something special. It’s a game that rewards curiosity, encourages experimentation, and delivers a sense of adventure that’s hard to find elsewhere.
What do you think? Is Avowed an overlooked gem, or does it fall short of its potential? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this divisive yet captivating RPG.
