Avowed has undergone significant changes during its development journey, initially intended to include multiplayer elements reminiscent of Destiny. During discussions with investors, Obsidian Entertainment’s director highlighted that Avowed was pitched as a blend of Destiny and Skyrim, catching Microsoft’s attention and leading to the acquisition of the studio.
Since its inception in 2018, the game has experienced two major reboots, resulting in the removal of its multiplayer aspect. The second overhaul took place in January 2021, coinciding with a leadership change at Obsidian just as the game was entering production. Director Carrie Patel emphasized a shift toward enriching the story and lore derived from the Pillars of Eternity universe. Another pivotal adjustment was changing from a fully open world to open zones, similar to those used in Obsidian’s The Outer Worlds. This strategic shift allowed the development team to craft distinct and immersive environments.
“We realized that through the concept of open zones, we could design compelling gameplay while thematically enriching each area, enhancing the player’s experience as they travel through varying landscapes,” Patel stated.
The team has expressed satisfaction with the sales performance of Avowed. While Patel did not disclose the studio’s next project, it is known that Obsidian is actively developing The Outer Worlds 2. This sequel, which was first announced in 2021, showcased its first gameplay trailer in 2024 and is slated for release later this year on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Avowed is currently accessible on PC and Xbox Series X|S, as well as through subscription services. In an evaluation of Avowed, it received feedback for its engaging combat mechanics but noted issues with its upgrade system and narrative depth, suggesting room for improvement in an otherwise promising title.
