The world of Eora is expanding. Obsidian Entertainment has released the highly anticipated Anniversary Update for Avowed, a sweeping overhaul of the first-person action RPG since its initial launch. The patch, available at no cost to owners of the game or those accessing it through Xbox Game Pass, arrives alongside the game’s debut on PlayStation 5, effectively relaunching the adventure for a wider audience. Avowed is currently available for R$249,00 on the Sony platform.
The update arrives exactly one year after the game’s original release – and coincides with the arrival on PlayStation 5 – functioning, in practice, as a re-release of the adventure set in the world of Eora, already explored in Pillars of Eternity. This timing suggests a strategic move by Obsidian to reinvigorate interest in the title and attract new players with the PS5 launch. The release of Avowed on PlayStation 5 marks a significant expansion of its accessibility, potentially broadening its player base and impact within the RPG community.
For those unfamiliar, Avowed places players in the Living Lands, a mysterious island brimming with adventure, and danger. The core gameplay loop involves a blend of combat styles – swords, spells, guns, and shields – allowing for a highly customizable experience. The game received “generally positive reviews” according to Wikipedia, but initially failed to meet sales expectations for Xbox Game Studios.
A Complete Overhaul for Obsidian’s RPG
Obsidian describes the update as the “largest update to date” for Avowed, going beyond simple bug fixes and improvements. It introduces entirely new gameplay systems, expanded options, and additional content. This substantial update signals Obsidian’s commitment to supporting and evolving the game, particularly as it welcomes a new audience through the PlayStation 5 version. The studio has made it clear that they intend to give the RPG a “second life,” capitalizing on the increased visibility and player base the PS5 release provides.
New Playable Races and Deeper Role-Playing
One of the most significant additions is the expansion of character creation. Players can now choose from three new playable races: Dwarf, Orlan, and Aumaua. Each race impacts character progression and role-playing possibilities, influencing skills, dialogue options, and overall character development. This addition strengthens Avowed’s connection to the established mythology of Eora and brings the game closer to the depth characteristic of Obsidian’s RPGs, like the Pillars of Eternity series.
The update also addresses player feedback by adding a New Game Plus mode. Upon completing the main campaign, players can begin a new playthrough while retaining some of their progress, now with modifiers that alter the experience. This feature significantly enhances replayability, particularly for players who want to experiment with different builds or make alternative narrative choices.
Further Enhancements and What to Expect
Beyond the new races and New Game Plus, the Anniversary Update includes a range of other improvements and additions. While specific details are still emerging, Obsidian has indicated that the update also includes refinements to combat, exploration, and overall game performance. The studio’s dedication to improving Avowed is evident in the scale of this update, demonstrating a commitment to delivering a polished and engaging RPG experience.
The arrival of Avowed on PlayStation 5, coupled with the Anniversary Update, represents a significant moment for the game and its community. Players on both Xbox and PlayStation can now experience the revitalized RPG, exploring the mysteries of the Living Lands and forging their own destinies in the world of Eora. The game is available through Xbox Game Pass, offering a convenient entry point for new players.
Looking ahead, Obsidian Entertainment will likely continue to monitor player feedback and address any remaining issues. The success of the Anniversary Update and the PS5 launch will be key indicators of the game’s long-term viability and potential for future content expansions. Players can stay updated on future developments and support by following Obsidian Entertainment’s official channels.
Have you tried the Anniversary Update for Avowed? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
