Obsidian’s Unexpected Twist
In a fascinating turn of events, Obsidian Entertainment, known for its skepticism towards traditional RPG romances, has given us a glimpse of romance in their much-anticipated game, Avowed. While the studio had previously cautioned fans about the lack of romantic content, it appears there is indeed a romantic subplot involving at least one companion.
A Unique Companion Experience
Although players shouldn’t expect a full-blown romance system akin to Baldur’s Gate 3 or Mass Effect, the inclusion of this tiny romantic aspect is certainly intriguing. This romance seems to sprout organically from a standout companion quest, aligning with Obsidian’s approach of crafting thoughtful and engaging character relationships.
Obsidian’s Reluctance Towards Romance
Historically, Obsidian’s design director, Josh Sawyer, has voiced his distaste for RPG romances, often labeling them as objectifying and lacking depth. Fans will recall past titles where romantic arcs leaned towards the tragic or subversive, transforming what could be simple love stories into profound character explorations.
With Avowed, even though expectations were curbed, the romantic subplot signifies a refreshing evolution for the studio. This small taste of romance highlights Obsidian’s commitment to character depth while staying true to their narrative style. Players can anticipate that this addition, albeit limited, may enrich the game’s storytelling experience in unexpected ways.
