Obsidian Entertainment has built a reputation as one of the most celebrated RPG developers in the industry, delivering beloved titles like Pillars of Eternity, Fallout: New Vegas, and The Outer Worlds. When Avowed launched in February 2025, fans eagerly anticipated how the studio's sci-fi hit would influence its foray into the fantasy realm of Eora. Now, with over a year of hindsight, it's clear that The Outer Worlds left an indelible mark on Avowed's design philosophy. From companions with rich inner lives to a nuanced reputation system, here's how Obsidian carried forward the best elements of its space-faring adventure into its latest first-person RPG.
Companions Who Feel Like Real People
The Outer Worlds introduced players to a memorable cast of companions like Parvati, Felix, and Ellie. Each had their own ambitions, personal struggles, and lives beyond simply following the protagonist. This depth made them feel like genuine people rather than mere combat assets. Avowed embraced this approach by crafting companions with distinct personalities and agendas that evolve as the story unfolds. Interestingly, Obsidian also chose to omit romance options in Avowed, a decision that echoed The Outer Worlds and was validated by the success of Metaphor: ReFantazio. Players proved they could immerse themselves in a high-fantasy world without romantic subplots, focusing instead on meaningful platonic bonds.
Perks and Skills That Encourage Experimentation
In The Outer Worlds, players could invest in a wide array of perks and skills on every level-up, shaping everything from combat effectiveness to dialogue choices and crafting prowess. The game's classless system allowed for truly free-form character builds—whether you wanted to be a shotgun-toting compulsive liar or an armor-clad juggernaut. Avowed doubled down on this philosophy, offering even more perks and skills to tinker with. The addition of magic opened up a whole new dimension of gameplay, letting players blend spellcasting with melee or stealth in creative ways. This flexibility ensures that no two playthroughs feel the same, a hallmark of Obsidian's best work.
The Flaws System: Turning Weaknesses into Opportunities
The Outer Worlds introduced a clever twist on character progression with its Flaws system. By behaving in certain ways—using too many drugs, jumping off too many ledges, or developing phobias—players could voluntarily accept a debuff in exchange for an extra perk. This risk-reward mechanic added personality and narrative flavor to the protagonist's journey. Avowed adopted and expanded this system, introducing flaws that reflect the accumulated wear and tear of an adventuring career. For example, spending too much time in dark dungeons might grant a fear of the dark, while overusing a particular spell could lead to magical exhaustion. These flaws make characters feel more grounded and lived-in, enhancing immersion.
A Signature Sense of Humor
Obsidian is known for infusing its games with wit and levity, and The Outer Worlds was no exception. Its dialogue crackled with satirical humor, memorable one-liners, and absurd situations that kept the tone lively. When Avowed was revealed, fans worried that the darker, more serious tone of the Pillars of Eternity universe might suppress that comedic flair. However, hands-on previews and the final release confirmed that Obsidian retained its humorous sensibilities, adapting them to fit the gritty fantasy setting. Whether through companion banter or quirky NPC interactions, Avowed proved that humor can thrive even in a world threatened by ancient evils.
A Two-Sided Reputation System
One of The Outer Worlds' most innovative features was its dual reputation system. Instead of a single slider measuring how much a faction liked or disliked you, the game tracked both positive and negative reputations separately. This meant you could be simultaneously revered for your heroic deeds and feared for your ruthless methods. Avowed implemented a similar system, giving players the ability to build or tarnish their standing with everything from minor villages to major kingdoms. This nuance encourages thoughtful role-playing and makes faction interactions feel more dynamic and consequential.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Player Choice
Obsidian Entertainment has always excelled at crafting RPGs that prioritize player agency, rich characterization, and systemic depth. By carrying over the best elements of The Outer Worlds—deep companions, flexible builds, the Flaws system, humor, and a nuanced reputation mechanic—Avowed solidified the studio's reputation as a master of the genre. As fans look forward to Obsidian's next projects, it's clear that the lessons learned from the Halcyon Colony will continue to shape their worlds for years to come. 🎮✨
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