### The Distinctive Method to Romance in *Avowed*
With the launch of action RPG *Avowed* set for February 2025, developer Obsidian Entertainment has drawn attention with an unexpected announcement: players should not anticipate conventional romance mechanics in the game. Game director Carrie Patel emphasized the desire to cultivate “thoughtful relationships” with companion characters while expressing a personal inclination toward romance only if it can be authentically woven into the storyline. This statement was captivating, particularly in light of Obsidian’s background with romance in their previous games.
Traditionally, Obsidian has engaged with romance options—most notably in *Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire*—but has not fully adopted the prevalent trend seen in numerous modern RPGs, where romantic relationships with companions have become a fundamental aspect. In contrast to these typical representations, *Avowed* chooses a more layered examination of relationships that values emotional development over physical attraction, thereby redefining what romance signifies in video games.
#### Romance in Western RPGs: The Conventional Method
The contemporary understanding of romance in Western RPGs largely originates from BioWare’s early titles, such as *Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn*. The incorporation of customizable player characters and romanceable NPCs emerged as a signature of the genre, with series like *Mass Effect* and *Dragon Age* honing this mechanic into a customary part of gameplay. Players have come to expect flirtation and seduction during interactions alongside adventuring, with characters often providing a blend of banter and progress in the storyline.
Nevertheless, this formula has not been without its shortcomings. Romance mechanics can frequently appear disjointed from the narrative, with interactions resembling a checklist of side missions rather than authentic emotional bonds. As Patel pointed out, when romance reduces to a mere system, the richness of character relationships wanes, leaving players with experiences that may come off as superficial and empty.
#### What Distinguishes *Avowed*
In *Avowed*, players take on the role of a customizable envoy from the Aedyran Empire, sent to investigate the tumultuous Living Lands. Here, players form a party of characters, all vital to the narrative. Yet, unlike other RPGs, the exchanges between the player and companions, particularly during camp discussions, are devoid of romantic nuances or sexual innuendos.
Rather, *Avowed* focuses on the personal narratives and emotional progression of the characters. A notable character, Kai, illustrates this well. A mercenary with a complicated past, Kai’s storyline revolves around his lingering feelings for a former lover, Tama, who succumbed after Kai abandoned him on his deathbed. This relationship is more than just a side plot; it is a crucial element of Kai’s character evolution.
Throughout the game, players can converse with Kai in ways that promote reflection rather than romantic advances. The true nature of the “romance” comes from assisting Kai in navigating his trauma and understanding the depths of his emotions for Tama. The interaction culminates not in a typical romantic conclusion but in an acknowledgment of emotional readiness and healing. Players can share their feelings with Kai, who, after considerable contemplation, responds in a meaningful, though non-physical, way.
#### Conclusion: An Invigorating Perspective on Romance
The strategy employed by *Avowed* signifies a notable break from standard RPG romance mechanics. Rather than engaging in the usual mechanics of flirtation and physical attraction, the game showcases a unique romantic thread that underscores emotional depth. By connecting the romance directly to character development and the narrative journey, *Avowed* redefines the concept of connection in RPGs.
Patel’s vision, coupled with the unexpected inclusion of romance, indicates that the developers value significant interactions over conventional gameplay mechanics. It underscores how a well-crafted narrative can express romance in a manner that feels both genuine and captivating, offering a fresh viewpoint in a genre that frequently resorts to trivializing relationships. In achieving this, *Avowed* may pave the way for future RPGs that aspire to delve into intricate emotional narratives without depending on traditional romantic clichés.
