Avowed is an upcoming 2025 action role-playing game developed by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Xbox Game Studios. The game is set in the world of Eora – the same universe as Pillars of Eternity. It is scheduled to release for Windows and Xbox Series X/S on February 18, 2025.
Gameplay
The player engaging in combat with a bear
Avowed is an action role-playing game that can be played from both first-person and third-person views. Players can use magic, melee weapons, and firearms to defeat enemies. A wide variety of spells—such as those that freeze or entangle foes—can be combined with physical attacks; for instance, freezing an enemy may set it up for a crushing melee strike. Players can quickly switch between several combat setups, including dual-wielding pistols or wands, wielding a two-handed axe, or using a sword or gun together with a shield. The game also features several skill trees for unlocking new abilities and permits individual weapon upgrades. Although not a fully open world game, Avowed includes several large, explorable zones.
As players explore the world, they will interact with various non-player characters (NPCs). Like in The Outer Worlds, dialogue choices allow players to shape their character’s tone and influence relationships with companions—although romance is not an option. Decisions made throughout the game affect both the storyline and how companions assist in combat and questing.
Plot
Avowed takes place in the Living Lands, a diverse region within the world of Eora. The Living Lands features a range of environments—from lush forests and arid deserts to sprawling caves and valleys. Players assume the role of an envoy from the Aedyr Empire, tasked with investigating a mysterious plague known as the “Dream Scourge”.
Development
Avowed is Obsidian Entertainment’s first first‐party AAA project since its acquisition by Microsoft in 2018. Initially pitched as Obsidian’s take on The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, the studio later chose not to replicate Skyrim’s style and instead focused on a narrative- and character-driven experience reminiscent of their previous RPGs. According to director Carrie Patel, the companions are “integral” to the story.
Obsidian Entertainment and Xbox Game Studios announced Avowed during the Xbox Games showcase in July 2020. The game was originally planned for an earlier release but was delayed to February 18, 2025. In addition to its standard release, a premium edition offering early access from February 13 is planned.
