Reviews for Avowed, the latest role-playing game from Xbox Game Studios and Obsidian Entertainment, are now available. The general consensus among critics is that the game excels in its world design and combat systems, but opinions are divided on the narrative and the level of freedom it offers. The game's combat system is particularly praised for its flexibility and variety. Players can choose from a wide range of dual-weapon loadouts, which can be swapped in and out at any point, allowing for a high degree of customization and experimentation. This approach aligns with Obsidian's emphasis on player choice and consequence, where every decision, including combat strategies, has repercussions. Critics have noted that while the game's narrative and freedom are somewhat divisive, the overall experience is engaging and immersive. Avowed has received high scores on review platforms, with an average score of 80 on Metacritic and 81 on Opencritic across numerous reviews. Some reviewers have highlighted the game's ability to balance seriousness and levity, creating a rich and exploitable world that is enjoyable to explore. However, minor issues such as the third-person mode feeling somewhat tacked on and a messy menu for weapon loadouts have been noted. Overall, Avowed is seen as a significant achievement for Obsidian Entertainment, showcasing their ability to craft engaging and immersive RPGs when given the necessary resources and time. The game is set to release on February 18, 2025, for Xbox Series X and PC.

The game's reception suggests that it is a must-buy for RPG fans, offering a fantastic addition to Game Pass. Despite some minor flaws, Avowed's engaging world, memorable characters, and customizable combat make it a standout title in the genre.