Avowed's Character Creation: A Deep Dive into Backgrounds
Avowed boasts a rich character creator, allowing players to customize not only their character's physical appearance but also their Background, which provides a pre-game backstory and narrative context. This guide details each Background and its impact on gameplay.
Avowed offers five distinct Backgrounds, each influencing dialogue options and providing a unique starting weapon. However, all equipment and abilities remain accessible regardless of chosen Background. The Backgrounds are: Arcane Scholar, Court Augur, Noble Scion, Vanguard Scout, and War Hero.
Narrative Overview of Each Background:
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Arcane Scholar: This scholarly Background grants access to unique dialogue options rooted in academic knowledge. Your character, a graduate of Bragganhyl Academy, was arrested for publishing a treatise that challenged a local lord's authority. The Emperor, however, recognized your potential and recruited you to the imperial archives. Expect dialogue reflecting expertise in occult knowledge, legal precedent, history, and poetry.
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Court Augur: This Background features a tragic past, leading to accusations of witchcraft. After a village crop failure, your character's visions and insights fueled suspicion, forcing a flight to Highcrown. The Emperor then appointed you as their personal mystic. This Background emphasizes spiritual connection, offering dialogue options aligned with magic and the Gods. Ideal for players envisioning a wizard-like roleplay, particularly those who anticipate a strong connection with the companion Giatta.
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Noble Scion: This Background portrays a character born into noble privilege but burdened by family scandal and moral failings. Seeking the Emperor's favor, the Noble Scion becomes a valuable asset to the empire. This Background suits players aiming for loyalty to the empire and its agendas within the Living Lands.
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Vanguard Scout: This Background depicts a character spared from execution by the empire. Preferring wilderness to city life, the Vanguard Scout's tracking and espionage skills make them a valuable asset. This is a fitting choice for players preferring a hunter-style roleplay, potentially finding a strong connection with the companion Marius.
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War Hero: This Background centers on a character who suppressed a Skaenite uprising, earning a place among elite warriors in the Emperor's service. Loyalty and resilience define this character, making it suitable for players desiring a warrior roleplay, and potentially forging a close bond with the companion Kai.
Starting Weapons:
Each Background provides a Common-quality, one-handed melee weapon:
- Arcane Scholar – Common Dagger
- Court Augur – Common Mace
- Noble Scion – Common Sword
- Vanguard Scout – Common Axe
- War Hero – Common Spear
These starting weapons, located near a shipwreck during the "On Strange Shores" quest, are intended as temporary items, quickly replaced as the game progresses. Prioritize choosing the Background that best suits your desired roleplay experience.
Avowed is currently available on PC and Xbox.
