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- Avowed intentionally omits traditional romance options, with the director stating it hurts the character’s original goals, turning them into a “yes-man” to the player.
- Instead, the game focuses on developing deep platonic relationships, as the director says romance isn’t the only way of adding character depth.
- While full romance is absent, completing specific questlines with Kai allows for a post-game confirmation of a romantic relationship.
Avowed’s RPG elements have been quite different, with its unique take on NPCs. The missing romance element was a letdown for many players.
However, the game’s director explains why they left such an option out of the game. According to her, the romance option makes the characters lose their sense of purpose.
Why it matters: Romance has been an integral part of RPGs since it adds meaningful choices and emotional aspects to the game. Removing an entire feature can potentially remove the depth from a game, but according to the game director, that isn’t the case.
In an interview with Eurogamer, director Carrie Patel was asked why the game lacks romance.
According to her, adding romance to a character with set and defined goals suddenly makes them lose their sense of personhood, as they become a mere “yes-man” to the player.
They’re happy with whatever you want and lose their sense of personhood.
She also added that romance isn’t the only way to add depth to a character, and platonic relationships play an equal part.
It’s a shame if romance is the only right way to really get to that full level of depth with a character.
According to Patel, the romance intention should come up organically, and the opportunity for romance should come at the end of the game, as this would “feel natural, organic, and surprising.”
Avowed still features a bit of a romance option, after all. Players can confirm the relationship in the game’s post-credit rolls by completing Kai’s questlines and choosing the appropriate dialogue later on.
Do you agree with Carrie Patel’s views? Let us know in the comments below or visit the Tech4Gamers forum.
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[News Reporter]
Shaheer is currently pursuing a Business degree while also working as a part-time Content Writer. With his deep passion for both writing and video games, he has seamlessly transitioned into a role as a Journalist. Over the past two years, Shaheer has contributed as a freelancer to various websites and landed positions on acclaimed platforms like Gamerant. Currently, his role at Tech4gamers is as a Features Writer, but he also covers News occasionally. Shaheer’s favorite gaming franchises are Assassin’s Creed and the God of War series.
Get In Touch: shaheer@tech4gamers.com
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