Avowed really shines when it comes to its combat mechanics. The game offers an impressive degree of flexibility, letting players switch up their weapon choices and seamlessly toggle between two different loadouts. This keeps each battle fresh and full of strategic possibilities. Plus, with the option to dip into and upgrade any skill tree whenever you like, the experimentation doesn’t have to stop until the credits roll.
Every combat style feels valid and worth exploring in Avowed. Whether you want to dual-wield pistols or take down foes with a massive hammer, the game accommodates various approaches while ensuring they’re all entertaining. However, it’s the magical combat that truly stands out. While it might evoke memories of classic RPGs like Skyrim, Avowed introduces unique elements that carve out its own identity in the fantasy genre.
### How Avowed’s Combat Compares to Skyrim’s
#### Avowed Includes Wand Combat
One of the first differences you’ll notice between Avowed and the magical systems of games like vanilla Skyrim is the inclusion of wands. These wands in Avowed serve as one-handed ranged weapons, launching homing blasts of concussive energy. What sets them apart is that they use player stamina rather than Essence (mana) for attacks, allowing you to keep attacking without pause. They may not be the flashiest weapons, but they are reliable partners to your off-hand grimoire.
#### Avowed’s Grimoire Functions A Little Differently to Skyrim’s Magic
Grimoires are central to spellcasting in Avowed. Each one is equipped with a specific set of four spells that are usable both inside and outside of combat. However, each spell requires its own portion of Essence and comes with an individual cooldown. This setup differs from Skyrim, where you can equip two spells at a time and draw from a shared Magicka pool without independent cooldowns.
When leveled up, the Grimoire Mastery ability allows for casting some spells without the grimoire equipped, adding another layer of versatility to Avowed’s magic.
#### Avowed’s Spellcasting Skill Tree Is Much More Streamlined Than Skyrim’s
The layout of the skill trees in Avowed vs. Skyrim is another significant difference. Skyrim features six separate magic skill trees aligning with different magic types—each with its own set of abilities and boosts. Avowed, however, simplifies this with a single “Wizard” skill tree divided into five tiers, unlocked at specific character levels. The tree splits roughly into passive and active abilities, each upgradeable for enhanced effects and bonuses.
Despite the streamlined approach, Avowed manages to maintain the freedom Skyrim offers its players. While Skyrim makes you progress through each magic type linearly, Avowed gives you the freedom to distribute skill points across different magic abilities as soon as the necessary tier is unlocked by your level.
#### Avowed Has Its Own Form of Skyrim’s Shouts
During Skyrim’s main storyline, players gain access to powerful “Dragon Shouts,” with no restrictions tied to class. Avowed introduces its own iteration of these Shouts, enabling players to unlock “Godlike” abilities. These unique powers include reviving allies and forcefully driving enemies into the earth, adding notable excitement to gameplay.
Overall, Avowed offers a refreshing take on fantasy combat, especially in its unique handling of magical warfare. Its well-crafted mechanics and freedom of choice ensure a dynamic and engaging experience for every player.
