The Shallow Depths of Avowed: A Disappointing RPG Experience

The latest RPG from Obsidian Entertainment, Avowed, has finally arrived on PC and Xbox consoles, boasting an impressive 80 on Metacritic. However, beneath its shiny surface, the game is lacking in some fundamental aspects that have left fans feeling underwhelmed. In this post, we’ll dive into the criticisms surrounding Avowed and explore what went wrong.

A Lack of Depth

One of the most significant issues with Avowed is its lack of depth in certain areas. For instance, the game is missing a crime system, a feature that has been a staple in RPGs for years. This omission not only erodes the immersive quality of the game but also makes it feel shallow. Additionally, players can’t even attack NPCs unless they’re marked as enemies, which further limits the gameplay experience.

Stationary NPCs

Another major criticism is the game’s use of stationary NPCs. Unlike other RPGs, the characters in Avowed don’t move around or have routines, giving the game a lifeless feel. This lack of movement and interaction makes the game world feel empty and uninviting.

A Regression in Standards

The fact that Avowed is being praised as a great RPG of this generation while being a regression from RPGs over a decade old is a worrying sign. Obsidian Entertainment was once known for creating technically impressive and engaging RPGs, such as Fallout: New Vegas. So, what happened? The studio’s shift towards a more streamlined, shallow experience is a concerning trend.

The Budget Conundrum

It’s difficult to gauge the budget of Avowed, but with Microsoft’s backing, it’s clear that the game wasn’t developed on a shoestring budget. This raises questions about the priorities of the development team and whether they were focused on creating a shallow, accessible experience rather than a deep, engaging one.

The Verdict

While Avowed is a decent game, it’s clear that it’s lacking in some fundamental areas. The lack of depth, stationary NPCs, and regression in standards are all major concerns. As fans, we expect more from Obsidian Entertainment, especially considering their past achievements.

Actionable Insights

• RPG fans, don’t settle for shallow experiences. Demand more from your games.
• Developers, prioritize depth and immersion over accessibility and simplicity.
• Obsidian Entertainment, take note of the criticisms and strive to create a more engaging experience in your future projects.

Conclusion

Avowed may have received a solid score on Metacritic, but beneath its surface, the game is lacking in some fundamental areas. As fans, we expect more from our RPGs, and it’s time for developers to step up and create more engaging experiences.