Avowed Explores the Central Theme of Its Narrative

As anticipated from Obsidian Entertainment, Avowed seems set to deliver another compelling RPG experience. Set in the expansive world of The Pillars of Eternity, this game offers players a closer look at what was once an isometric setting. It allows you to see how past events have shaped the realm and explore deeper themes laid out by its predecessors. Given Obsidian’s strong reputation for narrative-driven RPGs, Avowed has been on the radar of many since it was first revealed almost five years ago.

In the run-up to Avowed’s launch, we at Game Rant had the chance to chat with some of the brilliant minds behind its development. They shared insights into their approach to gameplay, story, and character design. Players can look forward to building relationships with a host of companions and uncovering the mysteries of the Living Lands, the game’s dynamic setting. Senior Narrative Designer Kate Dollarhyde revealed how this untamed island is central to the game’s themes.

### Weaving Together the Living Lands, Characters, and the Pillars of Eternity Legacy in Avowed’s Narrative

Avowed maintains a connection to its predecessors not just through character creation but also through its storyline. The impact of previous entries greatly influences the state of Eora and the journey players will undertake. Cast as an Envoy on a mission to help the Aedyran Empire establish its presence in the Living Lands, players will encounter a world in constant transformation. As Dollarhyde puts it, “change” is the driving force behind Avowed. She elaborated:

“Change is at the heart of Avowed… While the events of Pillars of Eternity: Deadfire are still largely under wraps, their ripples are beginning to be felt worldwide. The great empires are faltering. Colonies are rebelling for independence, becoming formidable entities themselves. Back home, internal conflicts threaten full-blown war. New technologies like animancy—a science dealing with souls—are expanding possibilities for innovation… and potentially cruelty. The gods, who operate over spans of centuries, are acting to ensure their relevance, and perhaps their survival.”

Dollarhyde further discussed how the Dreamscourge of the Living Lands serves to delve into metaphysical themes, paralleling the interwoven narratives typical of the Pillars of Eternity series.

A soul epidemic intertwines with political intrigues, all enriched by the player’s decisions and their interactions with their companions. As they navigate the Living Lands, players, through their questions and choices, might reflect on Avowed’s core philosophy, as Dollarhyde explained:

“Despite the turmoil, the Living Lands harbors a desire for discovery, a longing to connect. Could we be stronger together? Can we evolve into something new? How the island’s inhabitants and the Envoy adapt and the choices they make to endure this change expose their values. They reveal their identities. No one, especially the Envoy, emerges unchanged.”

With Obsidian’s known talent for crafting choice-driven games, the decisions players make in Avowed will carry true significance, shaping both their character and the world around them. The gameplay, centered around player choice, allows for extensive character customization using various skill trees and weapons. From our discussions with Obsidian, it’s apparent that Avowed fully embraces change, encouraging players to adapt their Envoy to meet both narrative and gameplay challenges.

While Avowed may not be as vast as some of the latest sprawling RPGs, akin to The Outer Worlds in length, it promises plenty of depth. Players will get the chance to become immersed in its world, feel the consequences of their actions, and encounter compelling storylines. Following up on its two much-loved RPG predecessors, Avowed is set to deliver intriguing choices and a captivating world when it launches on February 18, with early access available on February 13.