Avowed, the upcoming action role-playing game developed by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Xbox Game Studios, has received an impressive first review from the outlet But Why Tho?. Set to release on February 12, 2025, the game was awarded a score of 9.5 out of 10, with the review praising its standout achievements in gameplay and narrative design.
Although the review embargo wasn’t scheduled to be lifted yet, the outlet accidentally published their review on their website, which was then cached by OpenCritic. They have since taken down the review, but not before others managed to extract some excerpts from it.
The review highlights Avowed as another success for Obsidian Entertainment, showcasing a stunning and immersive world set in the established universe of Eora—the same world as Pillars of Eternity. It applauds the game for its memorable characters, fast-paced combat, and a deep yet intuitive customization system that enhances player agency, ensuring each playthrough feels unique and rewarding.
According to the review, Avowed excels at maintaining a strong core story, which serves as the foundation for its dynamic gameplay. The balance between storytelling and action has been particularly praised, setting a high standard for the title in a competitive market. This narrative depth, combined with engaging combat and customization, creates a cohesive and compelling adventure.
Avowed is scheduled for release on February 18, 2025, for PC and Xbox Series X/S.