While *Avowed* may not redefine the RPG genre, it certainly charms those who adore exploration and immersive storytelling. This game echoes the spirit of *Morrowind*, a legendary RPG that set new standards for digital worlds well before today's benchmarks were established. In *Morrowind*, every element of the environment, from the smallest rock to the vast ocean floor, promised adventure. Obsidian Entertainment has embraced the challenge of recapturing that sense of discovery, and early signs suggest they've done so with great success.
Table of Content ---
- The World of Pillars of Eternity
- A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise
- Treasures Beneath Every Stone
- Stories Waiting to Be Discovered
- Endless Possibilities and Exploration
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Set within the rich tapestry of the Pillars of Eternity universe, Avowed welcomes players into its detailed world without necessitating prior series knowledge. While understanding the backstory can enrich your journey, the narrative unfolds seamlessly through in-game dialogue and contextual hints.
The storyline centers on an emissary dispatched by the Emperor of Aedyr 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 rebirth. Our protagonist, marked by a god at birth (the identity of which remains a mystery), bears unique fungal or plant-like growths on their head, eliciting fear from some they encounter.
A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise
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Upon arrival in the Living Lands, chaos greets the protagonist as their ship faces an attack from deranged Aedyran guards. Landing in the port city aptly named Paradise, you encounter closed city gates, absent leaders, and rampant disorder—a scenario reminiscent of classic RPGs.
The joy of exploration unfolds rapidly as you discover hidden treasures. My initial adventure led me to dive into the sea near the port, uncovering sunken riches while dodging the risk of drowning. This exploration led me to a smugglers' camp, where I overheard their plans and narrowly escaped detection. Back in the port, I eagerly took on quests and began to explore every hidden corner.
Treasures Beneath Every Stone
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A memorable highlight was breaking into a locked house, pilfering its contents, and then scaling scaffolding to reach a lighthouse. There, I found a treasure map, rare yellow-tier boots with an intriguing backstory, and stunning vistas. As night fell, the surrounding mushrooms illuminated, revealing new paths and secrets.
The game world is brimming with surprises. Under the lighthouse, in the sewers, a chest lies concealed beneath spiderwebs, waiting to be revealed. Nearby, a nest atop beams holds coins. A cliff edge supports a backpack filled with treasures, and below, a sunbathing skeleton adds to the scene. Even throwing an ice grenade into the water allows temporary access to submerged loot.
Stories Waiting to Be Discovered
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The game is rich with moments of discovery. Supplies can be found on rooftops, behind waterfalls, and atop hills, leading to new quests, rare relics, and compelling narratives. In the slums, I broke into a shack to meet a blind man and his grieving wife, threatened by mercenaries. Another quest involved retrieving a nobleman's lost ring from a sewer, which unexpectedly boosted my health regeneration—an item I decided to keep.
A poignant encounter involved discovering two lovers who had perished together, near a lift leading to the northern outskirts where guards inspected a dead smuggler. Following the trail, I battled through a reptilian camp and confronted a formidable giant, testing my combat prowess and gear.
Endless Possibilities and Exploration
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Within just eight hours of gameplay, I embarked on numerous adventures without touching the main questline or engaging in repetitive grinding. Instead, my focus was on exploring, experimenting with different character builds, and understanding item interactions. Whether wielding a shield and staff or opting for heavy armor and melee weapons, each decision opened up new avenues of play.
With many mysteries yet to unravel and numerous systems left to explore, my journey through Avowed continues. The promise of hidden chests, untold stories, and forgotten treasures beckons. For now, the game provides an unending stream of discoveries, reminding us why RPGs remain one of gaming's most enthralling genres.
