Avowed Developers Discuss Ties to the Pillars of Eternity Universe

Exploring the Wild West of Eora

The more I dive into the

Living Lands

of *Avowed*, the more it feels like the Wild West of Eora—a wild frontier teeming with adventurers, mercenaries, and a fair share of rogues, all eager to carve out their own slice of this rich, magical island. Honestly, as a player, that’s exactly the kind of chaotic playground I crave. It’s got this fascinating blend of early-modern vibes; think gunpowder and blast furnaces, yet it’s not quite medieval. Cultures are evolving their own survival tactics, reminiscent of pivotal moments in our own history.

During my chat with the team at Obsidian, it became clear that this unique design is no accident. They’re crafting a world that feels like a new frontier in a first-person fantasy RPG. By borrowing elements from our reality, they’re setting the “rules” for player experiences in the Living Lands. It’s a place where souls are tangible and gods roam—just not in the ways we might expect.

The Flow of Souls and Divine Inspiration

“The flow of souls, that energy, is essential to life in Eora,” explains Game Director Carrie Patel. This concept resonates deeply with players familiar with *Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire*. The game features a traditional pantheon, and you’ll catch glimpses of these deities in *Avowed*.

Each culture you encounter is rich with its own beliefs and values, shaping the very fabric of the game. Take the Aedyrans, for instance. They’re all about rightful rule and order, but toss them into the chaotic Living Lands. How do they adapt? Maybe it’s a subtle shift in their attire or a complete overhaul of their lifestyle. This Wild West is a melting pot, and rigidity might not cut it when survival is on the line.

Gods, Ideals, and Cultural Nuances

Consider someone who worships the goddess Woedica, prioritizing law and justice, versus a devotee of Abydon, the Smith, who values hard work and industry. This separateion helps Obsidian create factions that feel real and relatable. Patel elaborates, “These ideals give players a clear understanding of what these groups stand for.”

You can see this attention to detail in the architecture and clothing design, intricately woven into the game’s narrative. Lead Environment Artist Dennis Presnell emphasizes, “This world is a living, breathing entity.” The iterative process of development means that every new asset, clever idea, or storytelling element builds upon the last, resulting in a vibrant, cohesive world.

Breaking Free from Fantasy Tropes

Obsidian aims to make everything intentional. “Dwarves don’t need to sound Scottish just because that’s the norm,” Patel points out. Instead, they’ve reimagined dwarven culture, exploring what it would be like if a settlement chose to stay put rather than scatter. What decisions led to that choice? How does it shape their story?

Much like isolated islands in our world—think New Zealand or Madagascar—the Living Lands have evolved independently, creating an alien feel. This manifests in dramatic environments filled with metaphysical mysteries and echoes of ancient civilizations, adding layers of intrigue to *Avowed*’s landscapes.

Separate Biomes and Unique Landscapes

The Living Lands promise a variety of environments that make exploration feel like a grand adventure. Patel describes it as a strange island where you’ll encounter sights and experiences unlike anything else. With mountains and valleys creating separate biomes, players can expect a visual feast as they traverse this uncharted territory.

Every region in *Avowed* is fresh and visually separate, setting the stage for creativity and exploration. It’s exhilarating to think about diving into a world that feels alive, where player choices influence how you navigate through hidden corners and unexpected adventures.

A Living World to Explore

Presnell shares his passion for world-building, saying, “I love when developers populate the spaces off the beaten path.” The attention to detail in *Avowed* rewards players who take the time to explore, revealing hidden stories and treasures for those willing to look beyond the obvious.

Obsidian has long been known for creating immersive experiences, and they’re stepping it up with *Avowed*. With titles like *Pillars of Eternity*, *Pentiment*, and *The Outer Worlds*, they’re cooking up something special, and it feels like they’re just getting started.

Get Ready for the Next Chapter

As we gear up for the release of *Avowed* on February 18, 2025, for XBOX Series X|S, Windows PC, Battle.net, and Steam, excitement is palpable. Players who pre-order can enjoy perks like early access and exclusive skins. Plus, with Game Pass, you can dive into this expansive world right away.

With *Avowed*, Obsidian is on the brink of something extraordinary—a new chapter in their rich storytelling legacy. And honestly, I can’t wait to jump into this new frontier. Giddy up!