### **Avowed Preview: A Lively, Fast-Tempo Action RPG That Shatters the “Souls-Like” Framework**
In a gaming world filled with “Souls-like” games that prioritize punishing challenges and slow, intentional combat, Obsidian Entertainment’s forthcoming action RPG, *Avowed*, presents a refreshing alternative. Set within the *Pillars of Eternity* realm, *Avowed* pledges a vibrant, high-energy, and dynamic experience aimed at players seeking a more action-driven interpretation of the genre. After spending some hours with the preview iteration, it’s apparent that *Avowed* is poised to be an exceptional title for enthusiasts of high fantasy and seamless combat.
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### **A Realm of Color and Conflict**
Right from the start, *Avowed* distinguishes itself with a vibrant and elaborately crafted world. Gone are the decaying gray castles and suffocating darkness typically found in the genre. Instead, the Living Lands—a lightly populated island kingdom—showcases a lush, vibrant environment brimming with life and curiosity. Sun-drenched cliffs, lush forests, and lively towns form a visually captivating backdrop for the game’s storyline.
The tale kicks off with your character, a “god-like” figure touched by enigmatic immortal beings during gestation. This celestial interference bestows unique abilities but also leaves you with a disfigured visage, resulting in a troubled upbringing. Now an envoy for the King of Aedrys, your mission in the Living Lands is to investigate a fungal affliction that transforms animals and soldiers into furious monstrosities.
Although the initial exposition may seem somewhat heavy-handed, the narrative quickly picks up pace through well-voiced and captivating dialogue. The strained political dynamics between the colonizing Aedryn forces and the local Paradisans enrich the story. The locals view your presence with skepticism, perceiving you less as a hero and more as an unwelcome invader. This tension is further explored through side quests and interactions, such as mediating a forbidden romance between a human and one of the afflicted beasts.
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### **Dynamic Combat: A Fusion of Speed and Tactics**
If you’re used to the slow, calculated combat of *Dark Souls* or *Elden Ring*, *Avowed*’s high-energy, first-person melee system will feel incredibly refreshing. The game begins with a basic dagger, enabling swift thrusts and charged lunges. Combat feels brisk and responsive, with dodging and counterattacks adding a strategic layer. However, the precise timing necessary for dodging ensures that battles remain challenging yet not frustrating.
Ranged combat is introduced early in the form of a bow and an endless supply of arrows. While effective, the bow can become somewhat monotonous, particularly against weaker adversaries. The real thrill begins when you acquire your first spellbook. Magic in *Avowed* is where combat truly excels, offering a broad range of spells that can be executed in quick succession. From fireballs and lightning strikes to freezing icicles and homing projectiles, these spells introduce variety and dynamism to confrontations.
One memorable encounter featured a boss battle against a colossal infected bear. By alternating between my spell arsenal and time my dagger strikes during vulnerable phases, I managed to establish a satisfying rhythm of attack and evasion. The game’s generous mana system and swift cooldowns ensure that magic remains a core and enjoyable aspect of combat.
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### **Companions That Matter**
In contrast to many RPGs where AI allies feel like mere afterthoughts, *Avowed*’s companions are genuinely beneficial in combat. They effectively distract foes, inflict substantial damage, and can even secure killing blows at times. This degree of skill makes them feel like true allies rather than burdens. While you can give commands and tailor their abilities, the default settings are more than sufficient for most encounters.
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### **Exploration and Narrative**
The Living Lands abound with chances for exploration and discovery. Dialogue trees enable you to dive into the political lore and history of the world, while side quests furnish moments of levity and emotional resonance. One notable side quest featured counseling a distressed human involved in a forbidden romance with an infected beast, exemplifying the game’s readiness to tackle unconventional narratives.
However, not all storytelling elements hit the right note. Conversations with the sentient fungal plague, described as “mycelia twining through the loam,” drift into overly mystical and abstract realms. These instances risk detaching players who may prefer more grounded and relatable human interactions.
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### **An Encouraging Skill Tree**
The preview build merely skimmed the surface of *Avowed*’s expansive and branching skill tree. Players can customize their characters to fit various playstyles, ranging from melee-centric warriors to spellcasting mages. This flexibility ensures that each playthrough can feel distinct, catering to different preferences and strategies.
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