Avowed is shaping up to be a notable entry in Obsidian Entertainment’s impressive RPG portfolio, much like The Outer Worlds. Instead of opting for a sprawling open-world format, the developers chose a structure involving expansive zones for players to explore during the game. This decision is all about enhancing the storytelling experience by focusing on the pacing within these contained areas.
Obsidian’s choice not to follow the conventional checklist for modern RPGs—such as including romance options—might raise some eyebrows, but it’s also a testament to their commitment to crafting a game that doesn’t just fit into a mold. Instead of adhering strictly to genre norms, the developers have prioritized what they believe will serve the narrative and overall player experience, which makes Avowed stand out.
Kate Dollarhyde, a narrative designer for Avowed, shed some light on this decision in an interview with Xbox Wire. She explained that open-world games struggle significantly with pacing because it’s challenging to predict exactly where players will be and what they’ll be doing at any given moment. By using large zones, Obsidian can better manage the storyline’s flow, knowing what main content players have experienced, even if side quests may vary. This approach, proven effective in The Outer Worlds, helps balance freedom with storytelling.
As Dollarhyde puts it, “Pacing is really tricky in open-world games. You’re never quite sure where players are or what they’re up to.” Given this perspective, the semi-open-world design is more about ensuring players get a cohesive experience with the main story, while still allowing for side adventures.
Looking forward, 2025 promises to be a landmark year for Obsidian, heralded by the release of Avowed. The team also has plans for The Outer Worlds 2, scheduled for later in the year, though industry delays could push its launch to 2026. With these ambitious titles lined up, Obsidian is poised to make a significant impact in the gaming world.
For those set to dive into the universe of Avowed, you will be exploring the Living Lands, an intriguing island within the world of Eora. As an envoy of Aedyr, you’re tasked with investigating a mysterious plague. The Living Lands are fraught with secrets, dangers, and choices impacting the storyline in profound ways, offering players a deep and engaging RPG experience. The game releases on February 18th, 2025, on multiple platforms, with promises of optimized play on Xbox Series X|S.
