Grounded and The Outer Worlds: Peril on Gorgon may be the current focus for Obsidian Entertainment, but it’s also working on Avowed. Revealed during the recent Xbox Games Showcase, the medieval fantasy title provided major Elder Scrolls vibes. No release date was provided, but according to insider sponger on ResetEra, it’s still a ways off.
Currently targeting release in late 2022/early 2023, Avowed is described as “fully open world” and “much, much” larger than The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim. It’s worth noting that “larger” in this sense means “denser” and yet “more contrasted”. Set in the same universe as Pillars of Eternity, it will take place in The Living Lands region of Eora, at least as a starting point, and there’s a focus on ” world-reactivity, lighting and next-gen AI systems and physics”. There’s a special focus on how magic will interact with physics, though what that means is still unknown.
The story is independent from other Pillars of Eternity titles and sees the player facing the “incoming threat of tyranny”. Factions are included though the game takes a “very different approach” compared to Skyrim. You can have companions, though this will be different compared to The Outer Worlds. Boss fights are planned with some being “very, very large”. Various creatures from the franchise will be present, “fully respecting” their lore, but new additions are also in store. In terms of environments, you can expect a big focus on “iconic landmarks, statues and buildings”. There are currently two large cities planned along with several smaller ones. A strong focus is also being placed on “contrasting wild-areas, rivers, mountains and desolated areas. And yes, swimming is an option.
There’s a real-time weather system, with fog being important, and a “very advanced” creation creation toolset. Mod support is currently planned for PC (while being fully playable on Xbox) and will be “very dominant” as a “creation tool.” Interestingly, the project has been in the works for two years and seven months. Despite having a smaller number of people for seven months of pre-production, around 100 people have been working on it for two years. Full production is currently ongoing and the team “will still grow”.
Some parts can change during development, and one should take this with a grain of salt. However, insider Klobrille – who stated before the showcase that Fable would have an in-engine trailer reveal – confirmed that the person is “legit”. Stay tuned for more details and other potential leaks on Avowed in the coming years.