Avowed, developed by Obsidian, focuses on rewarding exploration with hidden goodies and secrets at every corner to engage players and make it worthwhile.
The region director, Berto Ritger, emphasized the importance of including rewards in dead ends, rooftops, and other nooks to show players that their exploration is valued.
Ritger oversaw the design of various regions in Avowed, ensuring coherence and identity within each area.
The parkour system in Avowed contributed to the presence of numerous rewarding secrets, encouraging players to explore vertically-oriented levels.
Rather than restricting player freedom, the team embraced unconventional exploration and aimed to reward it, even with minor acknowledgments like hidden items.
Avowed's unmarked secrets, such as hidden underground areas with challenging enemies and unique rewards, added depth and intrigue to the game world.
Obsidian designers, like Ryan Torres and Bre Seale, introduced unique and interesting elements in Avowed, enhancing the overall player experience.
Ritger highlighted the significance of hand-placed surprises and rewards scattered throughout the game to maintain player engagement and foster exploration.
Encouraging exploration and meaningful interactions in a game world helps to sustain player interest and immersion, according to Ritger.
Avowed's approach of rewarding exploration contrasts with the potential disenchantment of players faced with dead ends and lackluster discoveries in a game.