Avowed Review: A Journey Through the Living Lands – A Gamer’s Deep Dive

Let me take you on a journey. A journey through the vibrant, chaotic, and utterly enchanting world of Avowed.

This isn’t just another fantasy RPG; this is Obsidian’s love letter to gamers who crave adventure but don’t want to drown in the overwhelming complexity of systems and mechanics.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a Skyrim-like experience but wished it were more approachable, more intimate, and dare I say, more fun, then buckle up. This is the game you’ve been waiting for.

The Living Lands: A World That Breathes

From the moment I stepped into the Living Lands, I was struck by its sheer vibrancy. This isn’t your typical grim, grey fantasy world.

Oh no.

The Living Lands are alive—bursting with color, teeming with life, and dripping with personality. Each zone feels like its own little universe, with unique ecosystems, cultures, and stories waiting to be uncovered. It’s not an open world, but honestly?

I didn’t miss it.

The smaller, more focused zones allowed Obsidian to pack every corner with detail and meaning.

But let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the character models.

Yes, they’re a bit dated.

Beards look like they were glued on by a sleep-deprived intern, and lip-syncing can be… questionable.

But here’s the thing: I stopped caring after about an hour. Why? Because the world around them is so damn captivating that the slightly janky character models became part of the charm.

It’s like watching a B-movie with a killer script—you forgive the flaws because the heart of the experience is so strong.

Combat: Where Magic Meets Steel

Now, let’s get to the meat of it: combat. Oh, the combat! Avowed delivers a system that’s as flexible as it is satisfying. Want to be a fireball-hurling mage one moment and a sword-swinging warrior the next?

Go ahead.

The game doesn’t just allow it—it encourages it. Mixing and matching skills feels seamless, and the balance between magic and weapon-based combat is near-perfect.

I remember one particular moment when I was surrounded by a pack of snarling beasts. I froze one with an ice spell, set another ablaze with a fireball, and finished the last one off with a well-timed sword strike.

The fluidity of it all left me grinning like an idiot. This is combat that feels good, and it’s a testament to Obsidian’s ability to refine complex mechanics into something accessible without sacrificing depth.

Companions: More Than Just Follower NPCs

Ah, the companions. Let me tell you about Kai. Voiced by the legendary Brendan Keener (yes, that Brendan Keener from Mass Effect), Kai isn’t just a sidekick—he’s a character with depth, humor, and a story that’s worth experiencing.

The companions in Avowed are a highlight, not just for their engaging side stories but for how seamlessly they integrate into the gameplay.

Their skill trees and equipment are streamlined, which might sound like a negative, but trust me, it’s a blessing. You’re not bogged down micromanaging their every stat. Instead, you’re free to focus on the action and the story.

And what a story it is! Choices matter here, and they matter in ways that feel meaningful without the need for a convoluted reputation system. It’s storytelling done right.

Gear Upgrades: Simple Yet Satisfying

Let’s talk loot. Gear upgrades in Avowed are intuitive and rewarding. You won’t find yourself drowning in a sea of useless items or spending hours comparing stats.

Instead, each upgrade feels meaningful, each piece of gear a step forward in your journey. It’s a system that respects your time while still delivering that sweet, sweet dopamine hit when you find a shiny new weapon or piece of armor.

The Verdict: A Fantasy Lover’s Dream

Avowed isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, and that’s okay. What it does, it does exceptionally well.

It’s a game that understands what makes fantasy RPGs great—immersive worlds, compelling stories, and satisfying combat—and delivers on all fronts.

It’s accessible without being dumbed down, deep without being overwhelming, and above all, it’s fun.

I scored Avowed an 8 out of 10.

It’s not perfect, but it’s a damn fine game that deserves your attention. If you’re looking for a lighter, more approachable alternative to Skyrim, or if you’re just a fan of well-crafted RPGs, this is your game.

And with it available on Xbox Game Pass, there’s really no reason not to dive in.

So, what are you waiting for? The Living Lands are calling. Will you answer?