*Avowed* offers a robust character creation system that goes beyond just tweaking your character's appearance. You can choose a Background that not only shapes your character's backstory but also influences the narrative throughout the game. Here's a detailed look at each *Avowed* Background and their unique contributions to your gameplay experience.
Every Avowed Background, Listed
In *Avowed*, you have the option to select from five distinct Backgrounds, each providing unique dialogue options and a starting weapon. Importantly, all Backgrounds can utilize any equipment and abilities available in the game. The five Backgrounds are: Arcane Scholar, Court Augur, Noble Scion, Vanguard Scout, and War Hero. Let's delve into the narrative role each Background plays:
Arcane Scholar: This Background casts your character as an academic, with a history tied to Bragganhyl Academy. You authored a treatise on soul lineages that challenged a local lord's legitimacy, leading to your arrest. However, the emperor saw your potential and recruited you to work in the imperial court archives. Arcane Scholars are well-versed in the occult, legal precedents, historical observations, and poetry, which influences your dialogue choices.
Court Augur: With a tragic backstory, Court Augurs are seen as witches due to their mystical abilities. After visions of their neighbors turning against them following crop failures, they fled to Highcrown where the emperor took them under his wing as a personal mystic. This Background connects you deeply with the spiritual realm and offers dialogue options related to magic and the gods. It's ideal for players looking to role-play as a wizard and will find a strong connection with the companion Giatta.
Noble Scion: Born into a family of wealth and influence but marred by scandal, Noble Scions are the epitome of failed nepotism. After their family's downfall, they sought refuge with the emperor, becoming a valuable ally. This Background is perfect for players who wish to remain loyal to the empire and carry out its missions across the Living Lands.
Vanguard Scout: Spared from execution by the empire, Vanguard Scouts prefer the wilderness over city life and politics. Their skills in tracking and espionage make them a crucial asset to the empire. This Background suits players interested in a hunter playstyle and will find a natural connection with the companion Marius.
War Hero: Having quelled a violent Skaenite uprising, War Heroes were rewarded with a position among elite warriors by the emperor. Their loyalty and resilience make them invaluable. This Background is ideal for players who want to role-play as a warrior and may find themselves closely aligned with the companion Kai.
Every Background’s Starting Weapon in Avowed
Each Background in *Avowed* comes with a starting weapon, though these are of Common Quality and are one-handed melee items. As you progress through the game, you'll need to upgrade or replace these weapons. Therefore, it's advisable to choose a Background based on the narrative and role-playing aspects you enjoy most, as all starting weapons can be found in the Living Lands shortly 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 your starting weapon 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 roles in shaping your adventure.
*Avowed is available now on PC and Xbox.*
