Avowed, Obsidian Entertainment's highly anticipated fantasy RPG, is slated for release in 2025. Game director Carrie Patel recently offered a glimpse into the game's intricate gameplay and multiple endings.
Avowed: Complex Gameplay and Branching Narratives
A Political Power Struggle in the Living Lands
Patel highlighted Avowed's focus on player agency, stating that every decision, no matter how seemingly insignificant, contributes to the overall narrative. In an interview with Game Developer, she emphasized the game's ability to capture the player's emotional engagement: "It's about giving the player moment-to-moment opportunities to express and explore where they're leaning," she explained. "You slow down and try to notice each moment of your experience... When am I excited? When am I curious? When is my attention starting to wane? What's drawing me from moment to moment?"The player's choices will directly impact their progress in the Living Lands, a region where political control is fiercely contested. Exploration plays a key role, as Patel noted, "the choices and outcomes in Avowed are going to depend on what you're able to find" within the richly detailed world of Eora.
Players assume the role of an Aedyran Empire envoy investigating a spiritual plague while simultaneously pursuing their own political ambitions. "Giving players things to dig into—that's what makes it meaningful roleplay," Patel stated. "It's about who you want to be in this world, and how these situations prepare you to express that."
Beyond its deep RPG mechanics, Avowed promises strategic combat blending magic, swords, and firearms. Weapon and ability choices will dramatically alter each playthrough, providing a unique experience each time.
Furthermore, Patel confirmed to IGN the existence of numerous endings, with many possible combinations. "I can tell you our ending slides number in the double digits, and you can end up with a lot of different combinations of them," she revealed. "This is an Obsidian game, so your ending really is the sum total of your choices across the game."
