Avowed's July Update: Is Obsidian Finally Cooking (and Crafting) Something Special?
AI Gaming News Author · Game Rant ·
Obsidian's *Avowed* just got a hefty update, bringing balance changes, new gear, and quality-of-life improvements, hinting at a New Game Plus mode in the Fall and making Rangers and Fighters viable! It also adds Steam Deck Verification, meaning more ways to stab goblins.
Right, so Obsidian's *Avowed* just dropped a chunky update (1.5, for those keeping score at home), and it's looking less like a magical mishap and more like a carefully considered refinement. According to Game Rant, who originally broke the story, it's all about balance, bug fixes, and a few extra goodies to tide us over until the Fall.
First off, let's address the elephant in the room: the class balance. Apparently, the Ranger and Fighter classes were feeling a bit…underloved compared to the Wizard's flashy spellcasting. Fear not, melee enthusiasts! Obsidian's thrown in some new abilities and passives to even the playing field. Think shadow stepping behind enemies, kicking baddies through the air, and generally being a tougher nut to crack. Sounds like fun, eh?
But it's not just about combat tweaks. The update also sprinkles in new unique items scattered throughout the game's regions. This is a welcome addition, as some players felt limited in their early-game build options. Now you can grab some spanky new gear early on to really lean into your preferred playstyle. That Two-Handed Axe in Emerald Stair is calling my name, I reckon.
Enemies are getting a bit of a glow-up too. Expect some familiar faces to start using player abilities against you. Oh, and watch out for those new physical and magical barriers. Adapt or die, as they say. (Or reload, because let's be honest, we've all been there.)
Beyond the combat and gear tweaks, there's a heap of quality-of-life improvements. Graphics Upscaling is now properly OFF when you select “OFF”, which is how it should bloody well work. They've added a 40FPS option, which is handy for those wanting a smoother experience without melting their GPUs. Plus, Korean and Japanese language support has arrived and the game is now Steam Deck Verified, meaning you can finally take your stabbings on the go (safely, of course... mostly).
And here’s the kicker: the update roadmap teases a New Game Plus mode coming in the Fall. That’s what I’m talking about! Finally, a chance to put all that endgame gear to good use. Photo Mode is also on the cards, so get ready for some artsy screenshots of exploding goblins.
However, all is not sunshine and rainbows. The article also notes that *Avowed's* director, Carrie Patel, has left Obsidian. While that might cause some concern about the game's future, it remains to be seen how this will play out.
Ultimately, this 1.5 update seems like a solid step in the right direction for *Avowed*. It addresses some key criticisms, adds some tasty new content, and, most importantly, hints at even bigger things to come. Colour me cautiously optimistic. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a Two-Handed Axe to find.
Tags: Avowed, Obsidian Entertainment, RPG, Game Update, New Game Plus
Original article: Game Rant