Avowed boasts a deep character creator, letting you craft your hero's look and choose a Background that shapes their backstory and narrative before the adventure begins. Here's a breakdown of each Avowed Background and its impact.
Avowed offers five distinct Backgrounds, each influencing dialogue options and providing a unique starting weapon. However, all equipment and abilities remain accessible regardless of your chosen Background.
Arcane Scholar: This scholarly Background grants access to unique dialogue options stemming from your character's academic past. As a graduate of Bragganhyl Academy, your published treatise on soul lineages angered a local lord, leading to your arrest. The Emperor, however, saw your potential and recruited you to the imperial court archives. Expect dialogue reflecting your knowledge of the occult, legal precedent, history, and poetry.
Court Augur: This Background unfolds a tragic tale. Visions of villagers turning on you after a crop failure, fueled by suspicion of your unusual insights, forced your flight to Highcrown. The Emperor recognized your mystical abilities, making you his personal mystic. This Background offers dialogue options reflecting your spiritual connection and understanding of magic and the Gods. Ideal for players envisioning a wizard-like role, and particularly resonant with the Giatta companion.
Noble Scion: A twist on the classic "nepotism baby," this Background casts you as a member of a once-influential noble family, now disgraced by scandal. Seeking redemption, you find yourself in the Emperor's service. This Background suits players who wish to remain loyal to the Empire and serve its interests across the Living Lands.
Vanguard Scout: Spared from execution by the Empire, this Background represents a humble individual who prefers the wilderness to courtly life. Your tracking and espionage skills make you a valuable asset. This Background is perfect for players who want a hunter-style playthrough and will find common ground with the Marius companion.
War Hero: Your bravery in quelling a Skaenite uprising earned you a place among the Empire's elite warriors. Loyalty and grit define this Background, making it ideal for players seeking a warrior role and who might connect with the Kai companion.
Each Background starts with a Common-quality, one-handed melee weapon: a Dagger (Arcane Scholar), Mace (Court Augur), Sword (Noble Scion), Axe (Vanguard Scout), or Spear (War Hero). These weapons are easily replaceable as you progress through Avowed. Prioritize the Background that best fits your desired roleplay style, as similar weapons are readily available early in the game near the shipwreck during the "On Strange Shores" quest.
Avowed is available now on PC and Xbox.