*Avowed* may not be a groundbreaking title, but it certainly stands out as a charming RPG that speaks directly to fans of exploration. The game evokes a sense of wonder reminiscent of *Morrowind*, the legendary RPG that set new standards for immersive worlds long before today’s modern expectations.

Back in *Morrowind*, every rock, bush, mountain, and even the ocean floor was filled with potential adventure. Obsidian Entertainment appears to have captured that very essence in *Avowed*, delivering a world where curiosity is richly rewarded. So far, their execution feels spot-on.

The World of Pillars of Eternity

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Set within the expansive universe of *Pillars of Eternity*, *Avowed* welcomes players into a deeply crafted world without requiring prior knowledge of the series. While having played earlier titles enhances the experience, newcomers will find the narrative unfolds naturally through dialogue and environmental storytelling.

The story centers around an emissary chosen by the Emperor of Aedyr, sent to the mysterious Living Lands to investigate a strange fungal plague affecting souls and driving people to madness. In this universe, souls pass into oblivion after death and are eventually reborn. The protagonist, marked by divine intervention at birth, carries visible signs of this blessing—or curse—on their head in the form of plant-like or fungal growths. This feature unsettles many, making your journey one of both discovery and unease.

A Chaotic Welcome to Paradise

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Upon arrival in the Living Lands, the protagonist’s journey begins in dramatic fashion as their ship is attacked by deranged Aedyran guards. Landing in the port city of Paradise—a name that contrasts sharply with the current state of affairs—you’re met with empty leadership, locked gates, and widespread chaos. It’s a classic RPG setup, familiar yet compelling.

From the moment you step off the boat, the thrill of discovery kicks in. I dove straight into the sea near the dock, uncovering sunken treasures while barely escaping drowning. Soon after, I stumbled upon a smugglers' hideout, listened in on their plans, and narrowly avoided capture. Back in the port, I eagerly took on quests and began exploring every corner imaginable.

Treasures Beneath Every Stone

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One particularly memorable moment came when I broke into a locked house, looted its contents, and then scaled scaffolding like a seasoned climber to reach a lighthouse. At the top, I discovered a treasure map, rare yellow-tier boots with a unique story, and stunning panoramic views. As night fell, glowing mushrooms illuminated hidden paths and secrets below.

Every part of the world holds surprises. Hidden beneath the lighthouse, inside the sewers, I found a chest tucked behind spiderwebs—cleared away with fire. Nearby, coins rested atop wooden beams, while a cliffside backpack dangled above a skeleton basking in the sun. Even tossing an ice grenade into water allowed me to freeze it temporarily and retrieve submerged loot.

Stories Waiting to Be Discovered

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These moments of unexpected storytelling appear everywhere. Supplies materialize on rooftops, behind waterfalls, and atop hills, often leading to side quests, rare relics, and intriguing encounters. For example, during a scavenging run through the slums, I entered a shack and met a blind man and his grieving wife, both hunted by mercenaries. Elsewhere, retrieving a lost ring from the sewer provided a useful health regeneration bonus—an item I chose to keep rather than return.

Another emotional encounter involved finding two lovers who had died together, located near a lift leading to the northern outskirts. There, guards examined a dead smuggler, prompting me to follow the trail. Battling through a reptilian camp and facing off against a powerful giant tested my combat abilities and gear choices in satisfying ways.

Endless Possibilities and Exploration

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In just eight hours of gameplay, I experienced countless adventures without touching the main storyline or engaging in repetitive grinding. Instead, I focused entirely on exploration, experimenting with character builds, and discovering how various items interacted with the environment. Whether using a shield and staff or switching to heavy armor and melee weapons, each choice opened up fresh opportunities.

With many mysteries still unsolved and systems yet to fully explore, my journey in *Avowed* is far from complete. Ahead lies a path filled with hidden chests, untold stories, and forgotten relics. For now, the game delivers an unbroken chain of discoveries that remind me why RPGs continue to captivate gamers across generations.