Concerned About Missing Content in RPGs like Avowed? An Obsidian Dev Argues “Missable Content” is Essential to the Genre

Role-playing games, fondly known as RPGs, often come packed with a myriad of activities, many of which can easily slip past even the most diligent players. This characteristic, however, is precisely what one developer from the upcoming game Avowed believes lies at the heart of the genre.

Today, there’s an undeniable fascination with completing every little aspect of a game, driven largely by trophies and achievements that challenge players to explore every nook and cranny. But if we rewind a bit to the earlier days of gaming, many players often missed out on chunks of content. For Berto Ritger, who’s the region director and senior area designer at Obsidian Entertainment, this trait embodies the true spirit of RPGs. When talking to GamesRadar about Avowed, Ritger emphasized, “The essence of RPGs lies in their missable content, and that’s what makes the game feel uniquely tailored to each player’s journey.”

Ritger notes that these diverse options in RPGs spark great conversations, since not everyone will have the same story to tell. He humorously imagines a scenario where players share discoveries: “You might excitedly tell a friend you found a secret under the docks’ eastern side, while they discovered something completely different elsewhere. This creates a fascinating dialogue about the game.”

That said, Obsidian still aims to ensure players don’t overlook certain key experiences. Ritger elaborates, “We highlight elements within the game to steer your attention. For instance, a towering lighthouse naturally draws eyes upwards, inviting players to climb. And once there, you might take a daring plunge into the ocean. Our approach is to subtly guide players to these memorable moments.”

Reflecting on gaming’s past, I fondly recall those times when surprises lurked in games, waiting to be uncovered organically. Chatting with friends about discoveries not only added mystery but enriched the whole gaming experience. As you prepare to dive into Avowed, consider taking that path less traveled—you might stumble upon something truly remarkable.