Avowed's Character Creation: A Deep Dive into Backgrounds
Avowed boasts a rich character creator, allowing players to customize not only their character's physical appearance but also their Background, providing a pre-game backstory and shaping their narrative. This guide details each Background and its impact on gameplay.
Avowed offers five distinct Backgrounds, each influencing dialogue options and providing a unique starting weapon. However, all equipment and abilities remain accessible regardless of chosen Background. Let's explore each option:
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Arcane Scholar: This scholarly Background grants access to unique dialogue choices stemming from your character's academic past. A graduate of Bragganhyl Academy, your published treatise on soul lineages incurred the wrath of a local lord, leading to your arrest. The Emperor, however, recognized your potential and recruited you for the imperial archives. Expect dialogue reflecting knowledge of the occult, legal matters, history, and poetry.
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Court Augur: This Background presents a tragic narrative marked by mystical abilities that led to suspicion and ostracism. Visions of villagers turning against you after a crop failure forced you to flee to Highcrown, where the Emperor appointed you as his personal mystic. Expect dialogue reflecting spiritual insight and interactions with magic and the Gods. This is ideal for players envisioning a wizard-like character, and they'll likely find common ground with the companion Giatta.
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Noble Scion: This Background portrays a character born into wealth and influence but burdened by a family's moral failings and subsequent downfall. Seeking the Emperor's favor, the Noble Scion becomes a valuable ally to the crown. This Background suits players who prefer loyalty to the empire and its agendas within the Living Lands.
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Vanguard Scout: This Background depicts a character spared from execution by the empire. Prioritizing wilderness over city life and politics, their skills in tracking and espionage make them a valuable asset. This is perfect for players wanting a hunter-style character and may find a connection with the companion Marius.
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War Hero: This Background centers on a character who suppressed a Skaenite uprising, earning a place among the elite warriors in the Emperor's service. Loyalty and resilience are key traits, making this a fitting choice for players aiming for a warrior archetype, potentially finding kinship with the companion Kai.
Starting Weapons: A Common Thread
Each Background provides a Common-quality, one-handed melee weapon: Dagger (Arcane Scholar), Mace (Court Augur), Sword (Noble Scion), Axe (Vanguard Scout), and Spear (War Hero). These are introductory weapons and will likely require upgrades or replacement as the game progresses. Therefore, prioritize the Background that best aligns with your roleplaying preferences, as equivalent weapons are readily available early in the game. These starting weapons are located near crates by the shipwreck during the "On Strange Shores" quest.
Avowed is currently available on PC and Xbox.
