I have to start by saying—Avowed is an incredible game! While it may be more streamlined compared to Skyrim, it still offers a fantastic experience. Instead of focusing on what it lacks, players should take a step back and appreciate what Avowed brings to the table.


A World Worth Exploring

Avowed is set in the Pillars of Eternity universe, a franchise known for its rich lore and real-time strategy-based combat. While this game shifts towards an action RPG style, its roots in deep storytelling and immersive world-building are still evident.

The world of Avowed is truly something special. The environments are breathtaking, from the eerie landscapes of Downshire to the lush beauty of the Emerald Stair. Right now, I’m making my way through the sun-scorched desert of Shatterscarp, and let me tell you—the level design, the atmosphere, and the creatures roaming these lands make every new region exciting to explore.

But is Avowed just about graphics and story? Well, yes and no. While those elements are strong, what keeps me coming back is the combat and exploration.

A warrior clad in red and gold armor stands in front of an ancient temple in the desert region of Avowed. Towering rocky cliffs and companions, including a blue-skinned character, add to the immersive setting.
Venturing deep into the scorching deserts of Avowed, uncovering ancient secrets and powerful foes. The journey through Shatterscarp is just beginning!

The Downsides

Now, no game is perfect, and Avowed has its flaws. The story, while interesting, can feel a bit slow, and the world doesn’t always feel as dynamic as I’d hoped. While choices in side quests do have consequences, meaningful change in the world doesn’t really become noticeable until later in the game.

One thing that makes the world feel a little empty is the lack of enemy respawns. Once you clear an area, it stays that way, which means you can’t grind levels in the same spot. While there are still plenty of NPCs, this aspect makes the world feel less alive at times. That said, it’s clear that Obsidian focused heavily on action and exploration, and in that regard, the game absolutely shines.

A warrior in red armor runs toward a towering, mystical ruin at sunset in Avowed. The sky glows with warm hues, casting dramatic shadows over the lush landscape and distant forests.
On a quest to retrieve an Adragan Heart, my journey in Avowed leads me toward an ancient ruin under a breathtaking sunset. The Living Lands are full of secrets waiting to be uncovered.

What Keeps Me Hooked

If there’s one thing that keeps pulling me back into Avowed, it’s the combat and exploration. You’re constantly scavenging materials to upgrade your weapons and armor, making exploration not just fun but rewarding. And the combat? It’s fast, fluid, and genuinely enjoyable.

Unlike Skyrim, which leans more into its RPG mechanics, Avowed tilts heavily towards an action RPG experience. Each class has a well-designed skill tree, and if you love a solid combat system, you’ll have a great time experimenting with different builds.

Should You Play It?

If you’re on the fence, I highly recommend trying it on Game Pass. It may not be as hardcore as Skyrim, but the combat and exploration more than make up for it. If you love action RPGs with a strong world to explore, Avowed is absolutely worth your time!