Xbox wrapped up 2024 with an impressive showcase, launching titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and Indiana Jones And The Great Circle in just two months. This strong finish will carry into 2025, as Xbox has officially announced that the long-awaited Avowed will debut on February 18, 2025. Xbox leader Phil Spencer clarified that the delay was not for further game polishing but rather to allow players time to enjoy other releases before Avowed hits the shelves.
With other big-name titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza In Hawaii coming out around the same time, Avowed might have faced stiff competition if released earlier. Now, however, it’s set to launch during a particularly crowded release period. If you’re considering picking up Avowed in addition to these other anticipated games, pre-orders for this Xbox exclusive have already begun.
Differences Between Avowed’s Standard And Premium Editions
There are officially three versions of Avowed available for players, with the premium edition offering some physical extras. Below is a breakdown of what’s included with each edition:
|
Standard Edition |
Premium Edition |
Premium Edition Steelbook |
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Base Game |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Five Days Early Access |
✘ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Two Premium Skin Packs |
✘ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Digital Artbook And Soundtrack |
✘ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Avowed SteelBook |
✘ |
✘ |
✓ |
|
Map Of The Living Lands |
✘ |
✘ |
✓ |
The biggest draw of opting for one of the premium editions is the five days of early access, especially if you’re also eyeing other major games releasing around the same time. Both premium editions will allow players to dive in five days early. Additionally, you’ll receive bonus skin packs, a chance to check out the digital artbook and soundtrack, and if you choose the most costly option, you’ll also get a physical map of the game world along with a SteelBook case.
Avowed is a next-gen RPG from Obsidian Entertainment, set in the same universe as their Pillars of Eternity series. The game features a first-person perspective where players must confront a mysterious plague threatening the Living Lands of Eora.
Playing And Upgrading Avowed On Xbox Game Pass
If you’re worried about potential spending on games this February, rest assured that Avowed will also be part of Game Pass. However, you’ll need either Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass to access it on release day. Although the standard edition will be available on Game Pass, you can still upgrade to the premium edition.
Xbox has announced a premium upgrade, which is available for pre-order at Best Buy and GameStop) for $24.99. This is aimed at players who plan to use Game Pass but want the benefits of the premium edition. The upgrade provides five days of early access—if purchased more than five days before the release—as well as additional skins and digital extras such as the artbook and soundtrack.
Mark your calendars: Avowed will launch on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Game Pass on February 18, 2025, and those who opt for early access will be able to begin playing on February 13, 2025.
FAQ
Will Avowed Be As Big As Skyrim?
Avowed has often been likened to Skyrim. Although Obsidian intended for their new title to be on a similar scale, it’s been confirmed that the final game will be somewhat smaller than Bethesda’s latest Elder Scrolls installment.
Is Avowed A Sequel Or A Prequel?
While Avowed is set within the same universe as Obsidian’s Pillars of Eternity games, it does not directly continue their story. In-game references confirm that it takes place after Pillars of Eternity 2.