Obsidian, the developer known for creating games like The Outer Worlds and Fallout: New Vegas, recently released a new game called Avowed. Unlike some games that feel like a one-time project, Avowed seems to be just the beginning for Obsidian. The game was welcomed with positive reviews shortly after its launch, and an interview with Carrie Patel, the game’s director, hints that there will be more content related to Avowed in the future.
When asked if her next project would be something completely different, Patel indicated that there’s a strong possibility of developing more for the Avowed series, including potential sequels. She expressed excitement about expanding on the world they have created and continuing to strengthen the team and gameplay experiences within that universe.
Avowed has been in development since 2018, taking over six years, and it builds on the existing lore from Obsidian’s previous work in the Pillars of Eternity series. Initially, the game was envisioned as a multiplayer version of Skyrim, featuring a vast open world. However, the online aspect was removed early in the development process. In 2021, when Patel joined the project, the team decided to shift from a single large open world to several large open areas. This choice allowed them to delve deeper into the rich narrative and lore of Pillars of Eternity than they originally intended.
Patel remarked that with any game, developers must prioritize which elements are the most worthwhile to pursue. Drawing on their previous experience with The Outer Worlds, they found that creating a game with open zones allowed them to design distinct areas, enhancing the gameplay experience. This approach also helped provide a sense of progression as players journey through different environments.
Eurogamer praised Avowed in their review, stating that while the game may lack some polish, it compensates with its charm and depth, making it one of the most enjoyable surprises of the year.
Moreover, Obsidian has ambitious plans for the long term. Earlier this month, they expressed their goal of being active and creating games for the next 100 years. With a commitment to staying “lean and invested,” they aim to continue producing quality content while ensuring their growth in the gaming industry.
In summary, Obsidian’s Avowed is not just a singular project but the start of a new journey for the developer. With plans to expand the game’s universe and a focus on thoughtful game design, it seems fans can look forward to more exciting adventures in the world of Avowed.