Avowed breaks Xbox exclusivity February 17, 2026 with PS5 launch perfectly timed one day before original February 18, 2025 release anniversary. New Game+ Showcase reveals massive free update across all platforms adding Dwarves, Orlan, Aumaua races plus New Game+ mode carrying gear to fresh characters. Pre-orders live now at $50 standard, $60 Premium with artbook/soundtrack.
Anniversary Update Feature Breakdown
Free update addresses launch feedback comprehensively:
- New Races: Dwarves (tank builds), Orlan (caster support), Aumaua (amphibious melee)
- New Game+: Carry gear/abilities, reset level 1, randomized enemies
- Quarterstaff Weapon: Fluid combos, crowd control addressing melee variety complaints
- Photo Mode: Full posing, filters, Eora backgrounds
- Appearance Changing: Overworld customization without reloading
- Progression Fixes: 12-skill viability vs launch 3-skill cap
Lead artist Dimitri Berman explains race implementation challenges – “different sizes, shapes unique in first-person especially parkour systems.” Launch constraints deferred expansion now perfected through community feedback.
PS5 Version Technical Details
Native PS5 alongside Xbox Series X/S, PC maintains feature parity:
| Feature | Xbox/PC Launch | PS5/Anniversary |
|---|---|---|
| Races | Human, Elf, Godlike | + Dwarves, Orlan, Aumaua |
| Weapons | Swords, bows, magic | + Quarterstaff class |
| Replayability | Choice branching | New Game+ randomization |
| Customization | Menu only | Overworld appearance change |
| Platforms | Xbox/PC Game Pass | + PS5 native |
Microsoft’s Multiplatform Momentum
Avowed joins Grounded, Hi-Fi Rush, Indiana Jones, Forza Horizon 5 on PS5. Microsoft’s post-Activision strategy prioritizes reach over exclusivity. Obsidian confirms The Outer Worlds 2 follows similar path maximizing RPG audience.
Game Pass cross-progression maintains Xbox/PC ecosystem advantage. PS5 lacks subscription access requiring $50 purchase though Premium edition justifies value through digital extras.
Launch Reception Context
Avowed earned mixed scores – GameSpot 6/10 cited “gear upgrade reliance preventing creative freedom” despite praising combat impact. Anniversary update directly addresses progression frustration through skill expansion, race variety, weapon diversity.
New Game+ responds to single playthrough complaints preserving choice/consequence depth while adding replay value. Photo mode satisfies content creation demand. PS5 timing capitalizes improved reputation.
Pre-order and Platform Details
PS Store pre-orders live:
- $50 Standard Edition
- $60 Premium – artbook, soundtrack, 2 armors, 8 companion skins
- No physical release announced
Xbox/PC owners receive free anniversary patch February 17 maintaining parity. Game Pass Ultimate subscribers access across platforms though PS5 requires purchase.
FAQs
PS5 version Game Pass?
No. PS5 requires purchase. Xbox/PC Game Pass retains subscription access.
New Game+ carries choices?
Gear/abilities carryover, level resets to 1. Story choices restart fresh with randomized enemies.
Dwarves change gameplay?
Tank builds excel melee. Unique sizes/shapes affect parkour, combat feel matching Pillars of Eternity DNA.
Quarterstaff only new weapon?
Yes. Community melee feedback prioritized over additional ranged options.
Cross-progression PS5/Xbox?
Xbox/PC Game Pass cross-save confirmed. PS5 saves stay within PlayStation ecosystem.
Physical PS5 edition?
No plans announced. Digital-only through PS Store.
Fixes launch progression issues?
Yes. 12-skill viability, race expansion, weapon variety address core complaints.
Obsidian’s Second Chance Triumph
Avowed’s PS5 glow-up transforms 2025 mixed reception into 2026 redemption arc. Dwarven parkour warriors, quarterstaff combos, New Game+ replayability deliver Obsidian quality matching studio pedigree.
February 17 perfect storms – anniversary timing, multiplatform expansion, content overhaul maximize impact. Microsoft multiplatform strategy succeeds while PlayStation gains Eora universe access. Pre-order dwarves now.