Avowed is a bit like an athlete who makes it to the finals but doesn’t win a medal. It did well when it launched last year, surprising many. There were doubts before its release, but once people played it, opinions turned positive. I called it “one of this year’s most pleasant surprises.” Now, with the PlayStation 5 version out, we find ourselves asking: is Avowed still worth our time?
Last year was crowded for RPGs. Games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 took the spotlight, winning awards and acclaim. Other popular titles, like Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 and Assassin’s Creed Shadows, also made waves, overshadowing Avowed. Even Obsidian, the maker of Avowed, launched another RPG: The Outer Worlds 2. With all this competition, Avowed has been largely overlooked, barely making our ‘best games of 2025’ list.
It’s unfortunate because Avowed is genuinely a good game. It lands somewhere between indie and blockbuster—an example of a modern double-A game. It might feel slightly outdated in visuals and animations, but what it lacks in polish, it makes up for in character and fun.
If you explore Avowed’s vibrant world, you’ll see its charm. The landscapes burst with color and imagination, creating a refreshing escape from typical grimdark fantasy settings. You’ll find immense plants and bright environments that invite exploration and adventure. There’s a sort of clarity in what Avowed offers: it’s about pure escapism, letting players run and jump through lush landscapes while battling enemies without worrying about complicated mechanics.
Despite its straightforward nature, Avowed isn’t shallow. Characters have rich backstories, and there’s humor sprinkled throughout, particularly with companions like Kai and Yatzli. While it doesn’t have complex dating mechanics like Baldur’s Gate 3, it allows players to bond with characters in a meaningful way. The combat system is robust, offering a satisfying blend of abilities and physical attacks, making each fight feel impactful.
According to recent gaming surveys, 65% of players seek games that prioritize fun and adventure. Avowed delivers on these desires. The game’s regions are designed like playgrounds filled with hidden treasures and entertaining NPCs. Adventure feels purposeful, and that design choice keeps players engaged.
With the release of the PS5 version, Avowed has improved. New abilities, races, and weapon types have been added, alongside a new game plus option and a photo mode. These upgrades enrich the gameplay experience and show that Avowed is evolving. If you missed it last year, now’s a great time to dive in.
In a time when many games can feel heavy or dark, Avowed shines as a bright spot. It offers a cheerful experience that’s refreshing and fun—just what you need, especially in colder months. It’s a game that deserves a second look, proving to be more rewarding than many have acknowledged.
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