*Avowed* has arrived, and Obsidian's latest RPG is designed to captivate both seasoned role-playing enthusiasts and those new to the genre. If you're stepping into the world of RPGs for the first time, don't worry—I've got your back with some essential tips to enhance your experience.
Know the Basics
In *Avowed*, progression is similar to other RPGs. You'll earn XP through quests, combat, exploration, and more. As you accumulate XP, you'll level up, gaining attribute and ability points to customize your character. Whether you want to craft a formidable warrior or a powerful mage, the choice is yours.
Attributes determine your character's strengths. Personally, I gravitate towards the scholar class because of my love for lore and reading, but *Avowed* encourages you to play your way. A key feature that makes *Avowed* welcoming to beginners is the ability to reassign your points, allowing you to experiment with different builds without fear of making irreversible choices.
Explore Avowed's World
While *Avowed* isn't a fully open world, it offers a semi-linear experience that encourages exploration. Following the main story markers is intuitive, but the true essence of RPGs like *Avowed* lies in venturing off the beaten path. Exploring can lead to discovering valuable loot, resources, and side quests that provide easy XP.
Books and notes scattered around enrich the narrative, a testament to Obsidian's storytelling prowess. Don't just collect them—read them to deepen your understanding of the world. Treasure maps hidden throughout the game can guide you to special gear or coins, further enhancing your adventure.
Taking time to explore not only enriches your experience but also helps you amass gold, crucial for acquiring better weapons and gear, especially vital in challenging boss fights. Rushing through the story might leave you underprepared, so take your time to savor the journey.
Stock Up On Health and Essence Potions
Combat in *Avowed* can be tough, especially for newcomers. Balancing physical and essence attacks while monitoring your health and essence bars is key. Health and essence potions are your go-to for restoring health and essence, respectively. You'll find these potions throughout the world and in city vendors, easily identifiable by their bright red and pink glows.
Use potions wisely. If your health is only slightly depleted, opt for food items you've collected. Some food and herbs can cure conditions like poison, so keep them for when you really need them. Save health potions for when you're in dire straits—it's not like *Call of Duty*, where you reload after every encounter.
Give Your Companions Some Love
As you level up, you'll receive points to enhance your character's skills and attributes, impacting combat and dialogue options. But don't forget about your companions. Neglecting their upgrades can lead to frustrating restarts after tough battles.
Your companions can be vital in combat, offering support and even healing abilities. Keeping them strong ensures they can handle the onslaught of enemies, making your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Upgrade Your Gear
Exploring *Avowed*'s world will net you resources that can be used to upgrade your weapons and gear. At your camp, you'll find a station to the left upon entering where you can perform these upgrades.
Early in the game, you'll switch weapons frequently, so be strategic about where you invest your resources. Upgrading gear, especially items you plan to use for a while, can significantly boost your attack power, critical chance, and damage resistance.
Have Fun and Play Your Way
The magic of RPGs like *Avowed* lies in immersing yourself in its world. Whether you focus on the main story or dive into every side quest, the choice is yours. *Avowed* is about crafting your own unique story within the Living Lands. So, explore, engage, and enjoy the game in your own way.
That's your beginner's guide to *Avowed*. Dive in and let the adventure begin!
*Avowed is available now on PC and Xbox.*
