The Wait for Avowed is Almost Over
The wait is finally coming to an end for fans of Obsidian Entertainment’s highly anticipated first-person RPG, Avowed. The game is set to release on February 18, 2025, marking the first major Xbox first-party release of the year. If you’ve been eagerly anticipating the chance to delve into its rich and intricate fantasy world, there’s some great news: preloads are now officially live. This means you can begin installing the game ahead of time, ensuring you’re ready to start your adventure the moment it becomes available. No more staring at a sluggish download bar on launch day—just seamless access to the game’s expansive universe.
An Epic Adventure in the World of Pillars of Eternity
Avowed is set in the world of Pillars of Eternity, a universe brimming with magic, dangerous factions, and deep lore. You play as an envoy tasked with investigating a mysterious plague that threatens to unravel the very fabric of this fantastical realm. As you delve deeper into the enigma, you uncover ancient secrets that could spell the end of everything. While the game is not open-world, it features large, defined zones that offer the feeling of a vast and interconnected world. Each zone is meticulously detailed, providing a rich and immersive experience that rivals the best RPGs out there. According to an Xbox Wire news piece, this design choice allows players to benefit from the grand scope of the story while enjoying a highly detailed and interactive environment.
Preloading: Get Ready Ahead of Time
Preloading the game is a smart move, especially considering the substantial file size. On Xbox Series X, Avowed clocks in at a hefty 74.8GB, while the PC version is slightly smaller at 72GB (though the Steam version is 75GB). These large file sizes mean that downloading on launch day could be a slow and frustrating process, especially if servers are congested. By preloading, you can avoid the rush and ensure that the game is fully installed and ready to go when it unlocks. Whether you’re an Xbox user or a PC gamer, starting the game without any delays is a significant advantage, allowing you to dive right into the action and explore the world of Eora.
Installation and Performance Modes
For Xbox users, preloading Avowed is straightforward. If you’ve already purchased the game or are a Game Pass subscriber, simply search for Avowed on your console, find the standard edition, and hit the install button. If you prefer managing your downloads from your phone, the Xbox mobile app makes it easy to search for and download the game directly to your linked console. Obsidian has also provided flexibility in how the game runs with three performance modes:
- Quality Mode: This mode prioritizes the highest visual settings, running at a smooth 30FPS.
- Performance Mode: Ideal for those who prefer a faster and more responsive experience, this mode can achieve up to 60FPS, enhancing the gameplay.
- Balanced Mode: Perfect for players with 120Hz displays, this mode offers a balanced 40FPS, providing a compromise between visual fidelity and performance.
Early Access for the Impatient
If you can’t wait until February 18 to start your adventure, Avowed offers an early access option. By purchasing the Premium Upgrade or Premium Edition, you can gain access to the game as early as February 13, giving you a head start on the main story and all the side quests. For Game Pass subscribers, the Premium Upgrade is the more cost-effective choice, priced at $22.49. However, it’s important to note that you’ll need an active Game Pass subscription even after the game launches to continue playing. Early access is a fantastic way to get a jump on the action and start unraveling the mysteries of Eora before the rest of the gaming community.
Accept a Little Jank, Embrace the Adventure
While preloading ensures a smooth start, game director Carrie Patel has acknowledged that players may encounter some initial issues, often referred to as "jank." This could include minor bugs like NPC clipping, horses on roofs, or other humorous glitches. However, given Obsidian’s stellar track record in crafting intricate and engaging RPGs, these minor hiccups are unlikely to detract from the overall experience. The world of Eora is vast and filled with untold stories and challenges, making Avowed a must-play for any fan of the genre. Whether you’re planning to jump in on launch day or taking advantage of early access, the rich and immersive gameplay, coupled with Obsidian’s renowned storytelling, promises to make Avowed one of the biggest gaming highlights of 2025. So, get preloading, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey!
