I think it’s also an expectation game. When you pay 70€ for a game from a storied studio, after 6y of development and a massive marketing campaign one expects a certain level of quality and familiarity. Obsidian worlds are famously dynamic, from Outer worlds 1 (had different problems), POE all the way back to the genesis of the studio, including 3rd pty commissioned projects like New Vegas. I, like many other fans, expected the same dynamic world and engaging story, and we didn’t get that. The combat is fun, on a superficial level, it’s great, but I find Avowed lacking much like I find FFXVI lacking. The interactivity, mechanics and depth of the R in RPG is too small, it’s an action game. If I want an action game, I’m not spending 70€ for an obsidian game, there are far better studios out there for that genre.

I know it’s #firstworldproblems but it really left a sour taste in my mouth to have yet another obsidian game feel like a cash in of the obsidian name roster than a genuine attempt at making a good game. If one takes Laura’s “victory” story and is less generous (she’s a personal relationship of people on the team) Obsidian has shipped underwhelming games because MS wants to ship asap, rather than cooking to an acceptable level of quality.