Xbox’s New Major RPG Was First Pitched As…

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### A New Role for Avowed

Obsidian Entertainment’s Avowed offers a cozy solo RPG experience with expansive fantasy zones and lively companions. Yet, this wasn’t the original vision. Initially, it was designed as an online game, drawing inspiration from Destiny.

According to a recent Bloomberg article, Avowed had its beginnings in 2018. Back then, Obsidian was still independent and seeking new opportunities. Their plan was grand—a fantasy RPG merging Destiny’s online features with Skyrim’s immersive world. However, the landscape shifted when Microsoft acquired Obsidian later that year. The team faced challenges as they worked to shape Avowed, eventually axing the multiplayer aspect entirely by the time it was publicly announced in 2020.

### A Radical Shift in 2021

January 2021 marked a turning point for Avowed. The development reset after two challenging years. Carrie Patel stepped in as director, steering the game in a new direction. Her vision honed in on the intricate world and lore central to Pillars of Eternity. This resulted in a strategic pivot from a Skyrim-like open world to large, distinct zones. These zones were reminiscent of techniques used in 2019’s The Outer Worlds. This decision allowed the team to craft diverse locales without technical headaches.

“With any game you think, ‘OK, we can’t climb every mountain— which ones are worth the effort?” Patel revealed to Bloomberg. The team capitalized on knowledge gleaned from The Outer Worlds, ensuring themed and intentional areas, and providing a clear sense of progression.

### The Fruits of Persistence

Despite multiple setbacks and reboots, Avowed ultimately blossomed into a critical success. The game has garnered widespread acclaim and become a star attraction on Xbox’s Game Pass service. “I’ve learned so much over the past four years that I wish I’d known at the start,” Patel confessed. For her, the journey brought both towering highs and challenging lows.

Looking ahead, Patel expressed her enthusiasm for further ventures in the Pillars of Eternity universe. Yet, Obsidian remains tight-lipped about what’s next for the prolific studio. Avowed stands as a testament to adaptation and creativity, promising more adventures in worlds yet imagined.