With the trailer forAvowedfinally showing off what the game looks like in terms of combat and exploration, questions remain about how players will develop their characters regarding their relationship with the world and the people around them. For many RPGs, the latter point is important since some of the most memorable moments in the genre come from how different characters develop throughout the story with the protagonist often being there to help define a pivotal moment in their life.
This can lead to a romantic subplot, and while video game romances can be hit or miss, Obsidian can do something special withAvowedif it is included in the game. Despite having compelling narratives and memorable characters, romance options were rarely emphasized in Obsidian games, withThe Outer Worldsnot having them. Although they have not been confirmed forAvowed, including well-written romances could further cement the connections players feel with any character they pursue.
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Love Can Keep Players Attached to a Game Longer
Pulling off romance can be tricky in games, especially when given multiple options. Even titles known in large part for having memorable love interests likeMass Effectcan stumble, as some romances clearly had more time and effort put into them. That being said, romance thrives in games where player choice governs many outcomes since they are often one of the few major choices that alters the protagonist’s arc and the arc of another character.
InAvowed’s case, it could tie powerfully into the theme of an outsider feeling included by a larger community. Based on what thenarrator says to the player character inAvowed’s trailer, the residents of the Living Lands fear the protagonist’s power because they are unaware of their intentions. As players spend more time in the setting meeting the residents and gaining more allies, trust would naturally be built. Once they become more established with the populace, it would leave room to form a special bond with someone that takes a player’s interest.
The premise and formula are not uncommon with games built around player choice, butAvowedhas the potential to have something sweet play out. Although Obsidian is known for creating games with strong narratives,Avowedstands out because it is directed by Carrie Patel, who served as Senior Narrative Director forThe Outer Worlds.
Despite that game not having romance for the player, it still has what is considered one of the best romantic subplots in recent memory in the form of Parvati Holcomb and Junlei Tennyson. Parvati is one of the player’s companions andopenly identifies as asexual, but develops feelings for Junlei after meeting her on the Groundbreaker. Her companion quest in turn revolves around setting the pair up to go on a date. It has a cute resolution where she and Junlei form an emotionally romantic connection, showing wonderful representation of people who may want a romantic connection even if they do not feel anything physically.
Parvati’s story work so well because it comes from personal experience asThe Outer Worlds’narrative designer Kate Dollarhyde is also asexual, thus lending a layer of authenticity to her representation. Whether for player romances or romances between other characters,Avowedhas the potential to carry a similar level of authenticity if hints of personal experiences are allowed to shine through in the game’s script.
Assuming Patel leading the project means more writers can express their lived experiences within the narrative, it can potentially bode well for how blossoming relationships are portrayed, no matter what sexuality the protagonist is. More titles containingstrong straight and LGBTQ+ romanceshave come out in recent years, andAvowedhas significant potential to do the same if Obsidian decides that romance belongs in the game.
Avowedcomes out in 2024 for PC and Xbox Series X/S.
