Getting combat just right in a fantasy RPG is a genuine art. These games often feature a myriad of weapons and diverse character builds, making it challenging to ensure each combination feels equally rewarding, especially when starting out with the more basic gear. However, Avowed achieves this delicate balance beautifully.
Right from the start, the combat in Avowed is incredibly gratifying. Each enemy reacts visibly when struck, and your character, along with the camera, responds dynamically upon taking damage. Additionally, players are required to actively dodge attacks, adding a layer of responsiveness that enhances the overall experience. As you progress and acquire more powerful weapons, combat becomes even more enjoyable, but from the beginning, it feels solid. One particular mechanic in this game really stands out as something all RPGs should consider adopting.
Avowed introduces a remarkable feature that allows players to switch between two distinct weapon loadouts during gameplay. With just a quick press of the “Y” button on consoles or “Left Alt” on PC, you can seamlessly transition between your selected arsenals.
Customizing your loadouts is a breeze through Avowed’s character screen. Each setup includes a slot for both the left and right hand, giving you the freedom to mix and match from all available weapons in the game.
This system isn’t just a minor tweak; it fundamentally enriches gameplay. The ease of swapping weapons encourages creativity with your loadouts in a way that many RPGs struggle to achieve. For instance, you might choose dual pistols to weaken enemies from afar, then swiftly switch to a grimoire and sword to freeze and shatter an oncoming foe.
Moreover, Avowed’s difficulty scaling complements this feature perfectly. On higher difficulties, mindlessly attacking enemies isn’t a viable strategy. You’ll need to maximize your weapon selection, utilizing both loadouts to manage your stamina and Essence effectively.
Furthermore, this system incentivizes experimenting with weapon types you might typically overlook. Stick with a reliable setup for your primary loadout, then try something novel for your secondary. Because you can easily switch back, there’s less risk associated with experimentation. This approach is in perfect harmony with Avowed’s class system, which allows players to explore every skill tree for a truly unique character build.
Avowed, set for release on Xbox and PC on February 18, 2025, with its mature content and engaging mechanics, showcases how a new standard for RPGs can be set, potentially influencing future titles significantly. Xbox Game Studios has clearly packed it with potential, as it not only entertains but also paves the way for more inventive gameplay mechanics.
