Comparison: Avowed brings Obsidian back to Eora, minus some of its freedom
Obsidian's first-person fantasy RPG impresses with its world and combat, but stays more directed than what Pillars of Eternity fans grew used to.
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Returning to the world of Eora in first person was a risky bet for Obsidian. Avowed largely pulls it off, even if it doesn’t quite match the freedom-first ambition of Pillars of Eternity.
A world and combat that deliver
The Living Lands are dense and well-built, and the combat system — blending weapons, magic, and companions with distinct abilities — ranks among the best Obsidian has produced. It’s an RPG that plays remarkably well with a controller, which wasn’t a given for this studio.
Narrative freedom on a shorter leash
Fans of Pillars of Eternity or The Outer Worlds may miss choices that carry a bit less weight on how the story unfolds, and a more linear quest structure than the studio’s reputation might lead you to expect.
Verdict
An excellent first-person RPG, but one that leans more on accessibility than the total freedom Obsidian is known for.
