Avowed's game director offers a detailed look at the game's intricate design ahead of its anticipated 2025 release. The game promises a deep and impactful experience shaped by player choices.
Avowed: A Complex World with Multiple Destinies
Navigating Political Intrigue in The Living Lands
Obsidian Entertainment's Avowed aims to provide players with continuous opportunities to define their character and influence the narrative. Game director Carrie Patel explains that every decision, no matter how small, contributes to the overall experience."The game offers constant opportunities for self-expression and exploration," Patel states. She emphasizes the importance of player engagement, encouraging players to reflect on their experience, asking themselves: "When am I most engaged? When am I curious? What holds my attention? What drives my choices?"
Patel adds that the outcomes in Avowed depend heavily on exploration and discovery within the richly detailed world of Eora, specifically the Living Lands, where political power is fiercely contested. "I've enjoyed weaving together the narratives of these two worlds," she notes.
Players assume the role of an Aedyran Empire envoy, tasked with investigating a spiritual plague while simultaneously pursuing their political ambitions. "Meaningful roleplay comes from giving players depth to explore," Patel explains. "It's about defining who you want to be in this world and allowing the game's situations to reflect that."
Beyond the intricate RPG mechanics, the game features strategic combat blending magic, swords, and firearms. "The abilities and weapon choices available create vastly different experiences with each playthrough," Patel confirms.
Furthermore, Patel confirms to IGN the existence of numerous endings, each a unique combination of player choices. "We have double-digit ending slides, and the final outcome is a complex mix of those," she explains. "True to Obsidian's style, your ending is a direct reflection of your choices throughout the game, shaped by the content you've encountered and your actions within it."
