The RPS Advent Calendar 2025 has begun, showcasing one favorite game of the year each day, culminating in the reveal of the top choice on December 24th. Among these selections is Obsidian’s latest fantasy RPG, “Avowed,” which, while not reaching the prestigious heights of iconic titles like “Baldur’s Gate,” “The Witcher,” or “Fallout: New Vegas,” offers an enjoyable experience for players.

Set in the richly crafted world of Eora, “Avowed” engages players with its vibrant landscapes, featuring everything from colorful mushrooms to sprawling coastlines, dense forests, and vast deserts. The game excels in creating a visually varied environment that invites exploration. Combat is streamlined and satisfying, making players eagerly anticipate each encounter as they utilize an arsenal that includes unique weapons like the blunderbuss. The game’s characters are memorable, with engaging interactions that enhance the overall experience, particularly during campfire moments where players can learn more about their companions.

The gameplay encourages players to build their characters in ways that are not only enjoyable but also distinctive, allowing them to engage with the world meaningfully. Choices made during dialogue carry significant weight, resulting in impactful consequences that can alter the fates of multiple cities, including the critical city of Fior mes Iverno, which requires exploration and decision-making.

The main quest revolves around uniting nations to combat a deadly disease threatening Eora. While some moments are serious, the game is peppered with humor, especially in sidequests. Players can encounter quirky scenarios, such as convincing a character to adopt a creature as a pet instead of eliminating it or participating in adventures involving peculiar and humorous challenges. The game also features more poignant narratives, such as retrieving a leviathan’s heart for a warrior, providing a balance of lightheartedness and depth.

One standout aspect of “Avowed” is the player’s ability to tap into ancient memories through their character’s Godlike powers. These moments recall the evocative storytelling found in literary works, with beautifully rendered visions connecting ancestral tales to present locations. This enhances the narrative and provides a poetic touch to exploration.

“Avowed” shines when it delves into the fantastical elements of its narrative, offering grand tales of the past. While it may not revolutionize the RPG genre, it delivers a fulfilling adventure that captivates players for weeks. The game has sparked discussions within the gaming community, with mixed reviews but a consensus on its engaging environmental storyline.

Set on a single island plagued by a virus turning people into plant-like creatures, “Avowed” uses its narrative to explore themes of colonization and the impacts of imperialism, reflecting contemporary issues such as climate change and the experiences faced by indigenous communities. For those who appreciate eco-centric storytelling within a fantasy setting, “Avowed” presents a solid first-person action RPG that draws nostalgic comparisons to classic titles, all while allowing players to express their creativity through character customization.