Seeing Obsidian's developers make the same public statement for the third time in a year that the studio's upcoming RPG Avowed isn’t like Skyrim reminds me of nothing so much as a prank interview with Elijah Wood—in which the Lord of the Rings co-star Dominic Monaghan torments poor Frodo with repeat enquiries into whether he wears wigs.
Well, it's happened again. This comes after a statement made in June last year, wherein Obsidian CEO Feargus Urquhart told us that Avowed was no longer like Skyrim. Then an interview with PCGamesN in January, wherein Patel told them that the game was not like Skyrim. This latest assurance comes from GameInformer, who were once more told that Avowed is not (you might want to sit down) like Skyrim.
Deja Vu in the Gaming World
The gaming community has been experiencing a sense of deja vu as Obsidian's developers continue to emphasize that their highly anticipated RPG Avowed is distinct from Bethesda's iconic Skyrim. The repeated clarifications have sparked curiosity and speculation among fans and industry insiders alike. Why the persistent comparisons? And what exactly sets Avowed apart?
Obsidian Entertainment, known for its rich storytelling and immersive worlds, has a reputation to uphold. With titles like
Setting the Record Straight
Feargus Urquhart's initial statement in June last year was meant to set the record straight. "Avowed is its own unique experience," he asserted. "While we respect and admire Skyrim, our vision for Avowed is different." This sentiment was echoed by Patel in January during an interview with PCGamesN, where he elaborated on the game's distinct mechanics and narrative style.
GameInformer's recent coverage provided yet another platform for Obsidian to reiterate their stance. "We understand the comparisons," a spokesperson said, "but Avowed is not trying to be Skyrim. We are creating something new and exciting that stands on its own."
A Closer Look at Avowed
So, what can players expect from Avowed? While details remain under wraps, some key elements have been teased:
- Unique World-Building: Set in the world of Eora, familiar to fans of
Pillars of Eternity , Avowed promises a rich and detailed environment filled with lore and history. - Innovative Combat: Unlike Skyrim's combat system, Avowed aims to introduce new mechanics that offer a fresh take on RPG battles.
- Deep Storytelling: True to Obsidian's legacy, players can expect intricate narratives with meaningful choices and consequences.
As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build. While comparisons to Skyrim may persist, it's clear that Obsidian is committed to delivering a unique RPG experience with Avowed. For now, fans will have to wait and see if the game lives up to its promise—and if the deja vu finally comes to an end.
