*Avowed* is now out, and Obsidian's latest RPG is crafted to delight both seasoned fans and newcomers alike. If you're new to RPGs, you're not alone in feeling a bit overwhelmed. But fear not, here are some tips to help you dive into *Avowed* with confidence.
Know the Basics
*Avowed* follows the traditional RPG formula where you 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 envision your character as a formidable warrior or a powerful wizard, the choice is yours.
Attributes determine your character's strengths. Personally, I gravitate towards the scholar class due to my love for lore, but *Avowed* encourages you to experiment. The game's forgiving nature allows you to reallocate your points if your initial build doesn't pan out, making it exceptionally friendly for beginners.
Explore Avowed's World
While *Avowed* isn't a fully open world, it offers a semi-linear experience with clear story objectives. It's tempting to follow the markers, but the true essence of RPGs lies in exploration. Wander through buildings, caves, and various areas to uncover loot and resources. Side quests are plentiful and often easy, providing a great way to earn XP.
Books and notes scattered around enrich the narrative, a hallmark of Obsidian's storytelling prowess. Don't just collect them; delve into them to deepen your understanding of the world. Keep an eye out for treasure maps, which can lead to special gear or valuable coins.
Exploring also nets you gold, crucial for acquiring better weapons and gear, significantly impacting your combat effectiveness, especially against tougher foes. Rushing through the story might leave you underpowered, so take your time to explore and prepare.
Stock Up On Health and Essence Potions
Combat in *Avowed* can be challenging for newcomers. Balancing physical and essence attacks while monitoring your health and essence bars is key. Health and essence potions are vital: health potions restore a significant amount of health, while essence potions refill your essence bar. You'll find these potions throughout the world and at vendors in cities, easily identifiable by their bright red (health) and pink (essence) glows.
Use potions judiciously. For minor health loss, opt for food found in the world. Some food and herbs can cure effects like poison, so save them for when you really need them. Reserve health potions for when your health is critically low, unlike in games like *Call of Duty* where you might reload after every encounter.
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Give Your Companions Some Love
As you level up, you'll receive points to enhance your character's skills and attributes, affecting combat and dialogue options. However, don't overlook your companions. Neglecting their upgrades can lead to frustration and potential restarts after tough battles.
Your companions are crucial in combat, offering support and even healing. Weak companions can leave you vulnerable, but well-upgraded ones become invaluable assets, making victories much smoother.
Upgrade Your Gear
As you explore, you'll gather resources that can be used to upgrade your weapons and gear at the camp's upgrade station. Early on, you'll switch weapons frequently, so be strategic about where you invest your resources. Upgrading gear, especially items you plan to use long-term, boosts attack power, critical chance, and damage protection, among other benefits.
Have Fun and Play Your Way
The beauty of RPGs like *Avowed* lies in the freedom to create your own story. Whether you focus on the main quest or dive into every side quest, the choice is yours. Embrace the Living Lands in your unique way and enjoy the journey.
And that's your beginner's guide to *Avowed*.
*Avowed is available now on PC and Xbox.*