Unfortunately, we live in a time when rationale often succumbs to preconceived notions.
In short, this game will be judged by expectations it was never meant to meet.
But heres the strange thing.
Its very much its own thing.
You play as a custom-created envoy from the Aedyr Empire sent to investigate this mysterious occurrence.
The same is true of the games visuals and technical performance.
Theres no doubt its presentation will (hopefully) continue to improve in the next few months.
Again, though, its too early to weigh in on either element of the game beyond initial impressions.
Whats a little easier to discuss is the interesting structure ofAvoweds world.
Avowed Isnt Open-World, But Its Worlds Are Surprisingly Open
Avowedis not an open-world game.
Imagine something likeKnights of the Old Republicor Obsidans ownOuter Worlds, and youll be on the right track.
Like those games, youll often explore these areas alongside NPC companions you gradually recruit.
That campsite feature will undoubtedly triggerBaldurs Gate 3comparisons thatAvowedcant quite live up to.
This is one of the more intriguing elements ofAvoweds world design.
Sections of the map are brimming with resources, treasures, secrets, and optional encounters.
This treasure-hunting element of the game quickly becomes one ofAvoweds biggest draws.
Want to dual-wield pistols while using innate magical abilities like aTerry Pratchettversion of John Wick?
Do you prefer to charge into battle with a fighters armor and disposition while flinging spells from both hands?
All of these optionsand so many moreare possible and viable withinAvowed.
Similar to dual-speccing in MMOs, that feature allows you to easily alter your strategies for fun or profit.
Every new item and talent point is an excuse to try something new.
Its just a shame thatAvoweds actual combat cant quite live up to that systems potential.
For instance, even when working from a distance, youll need to quickly dodge incoming attacks.
The problem is that its not particularly rewarding.
Even at higher difficulties, I had little trouble getting throughAvoweds tougher fights.
Unfortunately, onlyAvoweds magic system and its collection of visually vibrant spells feel entirely enjoyable at the moment.
Melee largely involves dancing around often befuddled targets and unleashing easily charged power blows.
That issue is most apparent during boss fights.
Only the magic-based trees seem to allow you to consistently work towards more elaborate abilities.
So far as that goes,Avowedis certainly a fun time.
It should be a fantastic Game Pass title.
IfAvowedhas another gear, though, I havent seen it get there yet.
Forget about other studios.
As an action game with RPG elements,Avoweddoesnt feel as inventive as Obsidians espionage third-person shooterAlpha Protocol.
As a pure RPG, its nowhere near as deep or ambitious as thePillars of EternityseriesAvowedshares a universe with.
Im just not entirely sure what the best version of this game looks like yet.
Avowed hits Xbox Series X/S and PC on Feb. 18.
