Avowed’s Party Members Exist for One Brutal Reason
Avowed’s party members exist for one brutal reason—to challenge the player’s morality. Unlike most RPG companions, they aren’t romanceable, and only two have companion quests. Instead, they exist to question every decision you make in the Living Lands.
Kai, Giatta, Marius, and Yatzli each embody different ideological perspectives tied to Avowed’s core themes of colonialism, cultural survival, and inequality. Kai is a pragmatic soldier who values order but isn’t mindless in his approach. Giatta is an idealistic animancer, pushing for scientific progress without always considering the human cost. Marius is self-centered and short-sighted, making choices based on personal gain. Yatzli, the wildcard, is deeply influenced by the godless, making her unpredictable in any scenario.
Their presence ensures that every major choice in Avowed is met with internal conflict and external criticism. They aren't here to befriend you—they exist to reflect the weight of your actions. But does this system work? And what does it say about Avowed’s approach to narrative-driven RPGs?
Join me as I break down the role of Avowed’s companions and why Obsidian took this unique approach to party dynamics.