The gaming world is abuzz as Obsidian Entertainment prepares to launch its highly anticipated role-playing game, Avowed, on February 18, 2025. For players who opt for the Premium Edition, early access begins just days earlier on February 13, allowing select gamers to immerse themselves five days sooner.
Avowed, which takes place within the action-packed and mysterious Living Lands, offers the uniqueness of strong player agency through its combat system. Players will be able to utilize various methods of combat, including magic, firearms, and melee skills, each catering to different playstyles. This approach marks Obsidian's effort not only to provide variety but also to maintain game balance, ensuring no single combat technique reigns supreme.
Obsidian’s game director, Carrie Patel, shared insights with Game Rant, emphasizing the importance of every weapon, spell, and ability within the game’s design. She stated, "Our philosophy is... all the weapons, spells, and abilities available to the player must always be viable, and, in the right circumstances, situationally best..." This ensures players are encouraged to explore various combat strategies rather than defaulting to one ostensibly superior choice.
For avid gamers, the early access starts at 10 AM PST for locations like Los Angeles, with staggered release times across different regions. February 13 marks the moment when Premium Edition holders can begin their adventures with Avowed:
- Mexico City: 12 PM CST
- New York/Toronto: 1 PM EDT
- Sao Paulo: 3 PM BRT
- London: 6 PM GMT
- Helsinki: 8 PM EET
- February 14 for Asian cities like Seoul and Tokyo at 3 AM KST/JST respectively.
The full release on February 18 will follow the same timing structure, maintaining excitement for gamers across the globe. For those counting down the hours, the release schedule provides clear expectations.
Alongside gaining early access, players purchasing the Premium Edition, priced at $89.99, will also receive two exclusive skin packs and additional digital content, such as the game’s artbook and soundtrack. Conversely, standard edition buyers can access Avowed for $69.99, or via Xbox Game Pass, but will need to wait until February 18 to play.
Previously, concerns had been raised about balancing the game’s diverse combat options. Patel assures players they will not be forced to compromise on their preferred combat style. "It will be really effective in some situations and less so in others," she noted, promoting this balance of player choice. Obsidian’s vision suggests combat sequences will adapt fluidly, pushing players to make tactical decisions if they want to optimize success.
Expectations led to earlier reviews, with the first being noted before the official embargo. A now-removed review from But Why Tho? rated Avowed highly, giving it 9.5/10 and acclaiming its engaging combat and vibrant environments. Though one review does not determine overall reception, it hints at promising aspects of the game, which fans are eager to explore.
Performance details reveal the game can run at 60 frames per second on the Xbox Series X, though the Series S is capped at 30 fps. This adjustment aims to cater to expectations alongside offering strong graphics performance, supported by varying frame rates for both console versions.
With the world of Avowed facing imminent release, enthusiasm continues to grow. The carefully crafted balance of combat options mixed with diverse gameplay mechanics can offer gamers exhilarating experiences, melding traditional RPG elements and innovative choices. Available on Xbox and PC, players will soon navigate the Living Lands, facing off against its mysteries and dangers.
Stay tuned for more details about Avowed as launch day approaches and prepare for adventures filled with choices and consequences.