Avowed's Character Backgrounds: A Deep Dive
Avowed offers a rich character creation system, allowing players to shape their character's physical appearance and choose a Background, which provides a unique backstory and narrative starting point. This guide details each Background and its impact on gameplay.
Avowed features five distinct Backgrounds: Arcane Scholar, Court Augur, Noble Scion, Vanguard Scout, and War Hero. While each offers unique dialogue options and a starting weapon (all common-quality, one-handed melee weapons), all equipment and abilities remain accessible regardless of choice. The key differentiator lies in the narrative context and roleplaying opportunities.
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Arcane Scholar: This scholarly background provides dialogue options reflecting an academic past. Graduating from Bragganhyl Academy, your character's treatise on soul lineages angered a local lord, leading to arrest but ultimately recruitment into the imperial court archives. Expect dialogue options rooted in occult knowledge, legal precedent, history, and poetry.
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Court Augur: This background presents a tragic backstory, potentially leading to being perceived as a witch. Visions of villagers turning against them after a crop failure fueled suspicion. They fled to Highcrown, where the emperor recognized their mystical abilities. This background is ideal for players wanting to roleplay a magic-focused character, potentially finding synergy with the Giatta companion.
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Noble Scion: A classic tale of fallen nobility. Born into wealth and influence, their family's downfall due to scandal led them to seek the emperor's favor. This background is perfect for players wishing to maintain loyalty to the empire and serve its interests.
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Vanguard Scout: This background depicts a character spared from execution by the empire. Prioritizing wilderness over city life and politics, their skills in tracking and espionage make them a valuable asset. This background suits players preferring a hunter-style playthrough and may resonate with the Marius companion.
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War Hero: This character quelled a Skaenite uprising, earning a place among elite warriors. Their loyalty and combat prowess are highly valued by the emperor. This is a strong choice for players embracing a warrior roleplay style, potentially connecting with the Kai companion.
Starting Weapons: A Temporary Advantage
Each Background provides a common-quality, one-handed melee weapon:
- Arcane Scholar – Common Dagger
- Court Augur – Common Mace
- Noble Scion – Common Sword
- Vanguard Scout – Common Axe
- War Hero – Common Spear
These weapons, located near a shipwreck during the "On Strange Shores" quest, are easily replaceable. Prioritize choosing the Background that best aligns with your desired roleplaying experience.
Avowed is currently available on PC and Xbox.
