*Avowed* is out now, and Obsidian’s newest game has elements that should delight RPG fans while being accessible to newcomers to the genre. RPGs can be intimidating for newbies, though—trust me, I know. It’s never fun to go it alone, so take these tips with you.
Know the Basics
*Avowed* follows the traditional RPG formula. You’ll earn XP by completing quests, defeating enemies, discovering new areas, and more. As you accumulate XP, you'll level up, gaining attribute and ability points to spend. This system allows you to customize your character, whether you want to be a formidable warrior skilled in hand-to-hand combat or a powerful wizard. It's all up to you.
Attributes determine your character's strengths. I often choose the scholar class in these types of games because I enjoy the depth of lore, but you should choose what resonates with you. Thankfully, *Avowed* is beginner-friendly, allowing you to re-spec your character if you find your initial build isn't working out as planned.
Explore Avowed’s World
*Avowed* offers a semi-open world, striking a balance between linear progression and free exploration. While the game provides clear story objectives, don’t be afraid to stray from the path. RPGs thrive on exploration, and *Avowed* is no exception. Wandering off the beaten track can lead you to valuable loot, resources, and engaging side quests that offer easy XP.
Books and notes scattered throughout the world enrich the narrative, and Obsidian's storytelling prowess makes it worth diving into. Keep an eye out for treasure maps as well; they can lead to special gear or a hefty sum of coins, essential for enhancing your equipment. Exploring thoroughly will also help you amass gold, crucial for acquiring better weapons and gear to tackle challenging boss fights. Rushing through the main storyline might leave you underprepared, so take your time to fully experience the world.
Stock Up On Health and Essence Potions
Combat in *Avowed* can be challenging, especially for newcomers. Balancing physical and essence attacks while monitoring your health and essence bars is crucial. Health and essence potions are your lifelines; the former restores a significant amount of health, while the latter replenishes your essence. You'll find these potions throughout the world, and vendors in cities carry them—health potions glow bright red, and essence potions are a vivid pink.
However, use these potions wisely. If you're only slightly injured, consider using food you've collected instead. Some food and herbs can also cure ailments like poison, so save those for when you truly need them. Reserve health potions for when your health is critically low; it's not like *Call of Duty*, where you reload after every kill.
Give Your Companions Some Love
As you level up, you'll receive skill and attribute points to enhance your character's combat abilities and conversation options. Don't forget to upgrade your companions, too. Neglecting their development can lead to frustrating restarts after tough battles. Strong companions can provide crucial support in combat, including healing capabilities. Upgrading them regularly will ensure they remain a valuable asset, helping you secure victories more easily.
Upgrade Your Gear
Throughout your journey, you'll gather resources that can be used to upgrade your weapons and gear. At your camp, you'll find a station on the left (as you enter) dedicated to gear upgrades. Early in the game, you might switch weapons frequently, so be strategic about where you invest your resources. Upgrading gear, especially the pieces you plan to use long-term, can significantly boost your attack power, critical chance, and damage protection.
Have Fun and Play Your Way
Games like *Avowed* are all about immersing yourself in another world. Whether you focus solely on the main story or dive into every side quest, the choice is yours. The beauty of RPGs like *Avowed* lies in crafting your own unique story. So, explore the Living Lands at your own pace and enjoy the journey.
And that’s a beginner’s guide to *Avowed*.
*Avowed is available now on PC and Xbox.*
