



Avowed First-Person vs. Third-Person Impressions
In a June gameplay showcase, Obsidian revealed that Avowed would feature both first-person and third person camera options. While the game is primarily designed to be played in first-person, the inclusion of a 3rd person perspective provides flexibility for players with different preferences. According to the developers, this feature was planned from the beginning to cater to both accessibility needs and individual playstyles.
Designed for Dual Perspectives
The development team emphasized that creating a seamless experience for both perspectives required careful planning from the start. Animations and visual effects were designed to function smoothly in both modes, ensuring that players can choose the view that best suits their style or needs.
Third-Person Challenges
Despite the inclusion of third-person mode, feedback suggests it feels less polished compared to first-person. The game world appears to be designed for first-person exploration, with intricate details that are easier to appreciate up close. In contrast, third-person animations can appear less fluid, with character movements occasionally feeling floaty or awkward.
This design choice mirrors other RPGs with dual perspectives, where first-person often offers a more immersive experience. Combat and traversal, for example, feel more intuitive and engaging in first-person, especially in confined spaces or during platforming sections.
Limitations in Camera Switching
Switching between first-person and third-person modes requires navigating through the settings menu, which can disrupt gameplay. This approach limits the flexibility of toggling perspectives on the fly, making it less appealing for players who want to alternate between views during specific moments, such as inspecting their character or appreciating environmental details.
Character Design and Story Integration
One benefit of third-person mode is the ability to fully view the player character, whose appearance plays a significant role in the story. The character creator encourages bold and unconventional designs, with unique features like “godlike” deformities that are central to the narrative. While these elements can also be appreciated in first-person dialogue scenes, third-person mode offers a broader perspective on their visual impact.
First-Person Offers a More Immersive Experience
Overall, the first-person perspective feels more natural for exploration, combat, and storytelling. It enhances the sense of immersion, particularly in intricate environments and during combat encounters. For players who prefer precision in movement and interaction, first-person is likely the preferred choice.
Conclusion
While third-person mode in Avowed provides an alternative for players with accessibility needs or a preference for external views, it currently lacks the polish and fluidity of first-person gameplay. As the game approaches its February release, adjustments such as quicker camera toggling or a photo mode could enhance the overall experience. For now, Avowed seems best suited for those who enjoy the immersion and detail of first-person RPGs.
I’m definitely hyped, and I do see quite a bit of anticipation across the internet, but yeah, there’s basically no ads running for it yet. Tomorrow marks a month until the early access, so maybe it’ll pick up in the coming weeks.