Obsidian had an impressive 2025, releasing two major titles that stood out in the RPG genre. One is a sci-fi adventure, and the other a medieval fantasy, yet both share many core elements.
These games offer first- and third-person perspectives, rich in player choices that influence the storyline and companion fates. They revived a style of RPG often missing in recent years, focusing on solid combat, stunning visuals, and a more concentrated RPG experience rather than sprawling open worlds.
Avowed features a decent story but feels overly cautious and low in emotional impact. The narrative, including the "voice in the head" device, lacks originality and fails to deeply engage due to its predictable delivery.
“It just felt sterile and low stakes, and I failed to connect with the characters in the way the story really needed me to.”
While not revolutionary in storytelling, The Outer Worlds 2 offers a more gripping experience. Its revenge-centric narrative is supplemented by engaging missions that draw the player in more effectively.
“The revenge plot is done well enough, but it's the missions that you go on that feel so much more engaging here.”
Both games shine through their focus on choice-driven RPG gameplay and immersive worlds, but The Outer Worlds 2 delivers a more captivating and emotional adventure.
Author's conclusion: In balancing narrative depth and player engagement, The Outer Worlds 2 ultimately surpasses Avowed as the more thrilling RPG experience of 2025.
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