Play it on: Xbox Collection X/S, Home windows (Steam Deck YMMV)
Present aim: Clear up the Shatterscarp map
I actually didn’t assume I’d play Avowed so quickly. However as I used to be recovering from a serious medical process, I used to be having some bizarre desires, considered one of which included an odd transformation of my house neighborhood (that being none aside from Jamaica, Queens, characterize!) into some form of fantasy village? It was…oddly emotional, too. There’s loads to unpack with my therapist in that one. And it was all drenched within the aesthetic of Avowed for no matter cause. So I awoke with a couple of questions and issues for my life and a realization that I suppose I ought to play Avowed now.
And wow, this recreation is an actual gem of 2025. It’s simply huge sufficient in scope to really feel like a big fantasy expertise with out turning into a burdensome open world chock stuffed with empty busywork. The writing is simply so lovely too, with a poetic sensibility woven by way of its dialogue and characters having considerate and relatable discussions concerning the wrestle for survival within the face of political unrest and a public well being menace. It doesn’t really feel like escapism for escapism’s sake; reasonably, it’s like an important fantasy novel that you just type of carry with you in your thoughts even after you shut the guide, ruminating on numerous themes and contours of dialogue that spring to life in a magical mirror of our personal world.
Additionally, whereas I’m discovering the sport a contact too straightforward (particularly since I’m enjoying on the toughest problem), the fight is hella enjoyable. I’ve bought this gun-wielding ranger construct occurring proper now (my character’s additionally a scholar, so I really feel like she’s bought some Indiana Jones vibes too). I used to be shocked at how simply my mind might simply go into “FPS Mode” and have it work out effectively right here. Fight, when it’s not overly straightforward, feels thrilling and heroic, with a beautiful mixture of gunpowder, swords, and magic—and weapons belong in fantasy. — Claire Jackson
