Since its announcement, Obsidian Entertainment’s upcoming RPG, Avowed, has garnered significant attention. However, some concerns have arisen about the inevitable comparisons to Bethesda’s iconic Skyrim. While these comparisons are understandable, there are compelling differences that set Avowed apart.
Setting and World-Building
One of the primary distinctions is the setting. Whereas Skyrim immerses players in the snowy landscapes of Tamriel, Avowed is set in Eora, a rich and vibrant world first introduced in the Pillars of Eternity series. Eora’s expansive lore and diverse environments promise a fresh experience, distinct from Skyrim’s familiar territories.
The Combat System
Another crucial difference lies in the combat system. Avowed aims to enhance the first-person combat genre with a more refined and tactical approach. While Skyrim’s combat has often been critiqued for its simplicity, Avowed promises deeper mechanics, such as spell combinations and more strategic use of weapons and abilities. These enhancements are designed to offer players a more engaging and challenging experience.
Narrative Depth
Obsidian is renowned for its storytelling prowess, and Avowed is no exception. The developers place significant emphasis on narrative depth, driven by complex characters and choices that influence the game’s world. This focus on story-driven gameplay might differentiate Avowed from Skyrim, which, while rich in lore, often prioritizes open-world exploration over intricate storylines.
Conclusion
While it’s natural for comparisons between Avowed and Skyrim to arise, Obsidian has crafted a title with unique features and strengths. By embracing the differences in setting, combat, and narrative, Avowed stands to carve out its own place in the RPG genre, providing players a refreshing and compelling experience.
