Obsidian Entertainment, masters of deep and complex RPG experiences, has recently offered a teaser of their newest title, Avowed. News about this game has been eagerly awaited since its announcement. The reveal of the character creation backgrounds ignites the imagination. Avowed asks players to define their character's past. This past sounds like it will matter.
Avowed Character Creation Screen: Five Ways to Start Your Journey
Obsidian recently showcased the character creator on social media. Alongside visual customization options, five different backgrounds were revealed for players to select. Each background promises to do more than tweak starting gear. They will subtly shape the journey in terms of dialogue and interactions. Let's examine these origins:
- Arcane Scholar: This background conjures images of learned mages and dusty tomes. Expect magical expertise from the start.
- Court Augur: Intrigue and whispers in corridors of power are suggested. Perhaps a touch of the mystic advisor is included. This background implies deviousness.
- Noble Scion: The fallen aristocrat is presented. "Middling wealth, questionable morals," the description teases. Expect a character with connections and a complicated past.
- Vanguard Scout: Rangers and explorers are represented, the frontline type. A more practical, outdoorsy skillset is expected at the beginning.
- War Hero: This background is self-explanatory yet compelling. It suggests a grizzled fighter, battle-hardened and ready for action.
The Noble Scion: A Peek into an Affluent History
The Noble Scion background has an enticing description: "You were born to a noble house of great influence, middling wealth, and questionable morals." It paints a picture of a character raised on scandal, double dealing, and near ruination. This background provides a canny yet refined individual seeking refuge with the emperor. It is a formidable force at court. It's more than a stat boost; it's a roleplaying prompt.
Beyond Classes: Background as Starting Point
Avowed is classless. Players are not stuck in a strict archetype. Skills can be mixed and matched between Ranger, Fighter, and Wizard trees. These backgrounds function as starting suggestions. They are subtle nods toward a certain playstyle:
- Arcane Scholar: A starting point for a mage-like character.
- Court Augur: Cleric or Bard-esque, focusing on influence and support magic.
- Noble Scion: Bard or Rogue, combining social finesse with martial prowess.
- Vanguard Scout: Ranger.
- War Hero: Fighter, the quintessential warrior.
A Nod to the Past: UI Familiarity
Eagle-eyed fans might notice the character creation screen visually resembles Pillars of Eternity: Deadfire. This is a subtle Easter egg. It hints at Avowed's spiritual connection to Obsidian's pirate RPG. It's a wink to fans, suggesting Avowed is a new world with the studio's RPG DNA.
Mark Your Calendars
The wait to explore these backgrounds and create unique adventurers is not long. Avowed releases on February 18th. The potential intrigue of Court Augur and the tempting Noble Scion backstory are notable options.
