*Avowed* offers an immersive character creation experience, allowing players to delve deep into their character's backstory through a selection of Backgrounds. These Backgrounds not only define your character's narrative but also influence dialogue options and provide a starting weapon. Here's a comprehensive look at all the Backgrounds available in *Avowed* and their unique attributes.
Every Avowed Background, Listed
In *Avowed*, you can choose from five distinct Backgrounds, each offering unique dialogue options and a starting weapon. Importantly, all Backgrounds have access to the same equipment and abilities throughout the game. The five Backgrounds are: Arcane Scholar, Court Augur, Noble Scion, Vanguard Scout, and War Hero. Let's explore the narrative context of each:
Arcane Scholar: Your character is an academic with a rich backstory, having graduated from Bragganhyl Academy. You published a treatise on soul lineages that threatened a local lord's legitimacy, leading to your arrest. However, the emperor recruited you to work in the imperial court archives. Arcane Scholars are knowledgeable in the occult, legal precedent, historical observation, and poetry, influencing their dialogue choices.
Court Augur: This Background carries a tragic backstory, with your character being treated as a witch due to visions and strange insights that led to suspicion and hostility from neighbors. Fleeing to Highcrown, the emperor elevated you to his personal mystic. Court Augurs are deeply connected to the spiritual realm, with dialogue options reflecting their mystical and magical nature. This Background is ideal for players interested in a wizard role and connecting with the companion Giatta.
Noble Scion: As a Noble Scion, your character comes from a family of great influence and wealth, marred by scandal and poor morals. After your family's downfall, you sought mercy from the emperor, becoming an invaluable ally. This Background suits players who wish to remain loyal to the empire and carry out its bidding in the Living Lands.
Vanguard Scout: Spared from execution by the empire, Vanguard Scouts have a humble background and prefer the wilderness over politics. Their skills in tracking and spying make them a valuable asset to the empire. This Background is perfect for players wanting to role-play a hunter and connect more with the companion Marius.
War Hero: Having quelled a violent Skaenite uprising, your character as a War Hero was rewarded by the emperor with a place among elite warriors. Your loyalty and grit make you a valuable ally. This Background is ideal for players interested in a Warrior role-play and relating to the companion Kai.
Every Background’s Starting Weapon in Avowed
Each Background in *Avowed* comes with a starting weapon, though these are of low Quality and are all One-Handed Melee items of Common Quality. As you progress through the game, these weapons will need upgrading or replacing. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a Background that resonates with your desired role-play, as you'll soon find better weapons in the Living Lands after the tutorial.
Here’s a list of each Background's starting weapon:
- Arcane Scholar – Common Dagger (One-Handed)
- Court Augur – Common Mace (One-Handed)
- Noble Scion – Common Sword (One-Handed)
- Vanguard Scout – Common Axe (One-Handed)
- War Hero – Common Spear (One-Handed)
You'll find these starting weapons leaning against some crates near the shipwreck during the On Strange Shores Quest.
And that's a comprehensive overview of every Background in *Avowed* and their functions. Whether you're drawn to the academic pursuits of the Arcane Scholar, the mystical insights of the Court Augur, or the gritty loyalty of the War Hero, each Background offers a unique way to experience the game's rich narrative.
*Avowed is available now on PC and Xbox.*