Should I Play Pillars Of Eternity Before Avowed?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You enjoy deep, story‑heavy role‑playing games and want to experience the evolution of the world Obsidian has built across titles.
• Good fit: You have spare time and prefer to explore classic RPG mechanics before tackling the newer, more streamlined design of Avowed.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: Your gaming schedule is limited and you prefer to jump straight into the latest technology and graphics improvements.
• Warning sign: You are unfamiliar with turn‑based or real‑time with pause combat and might find Pillars of Eternity’s system daunting.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Provides richer context for the lore and world‑building that reappears in Avowed, enhancing narrative payoff.
• Offers a chance to experience a critically acclaimed classic that many consider a benchmark for modern western RPGs.

Cons

• Requires a significant time investment (30+ hours) before you can start Avowed.
• The graphics, UI, and combat pacing are dated compared to Avowed, which may feel like a step backward.

Decision Checklist

• Do I have enough free time to finish a 30‑hour game before starting Avowed?
• Am I interested in learning the combat and dialogue systems that differ from Avowed’s design?
• Can I accept that the visual and technical aspects of Pillars may feel older, and am I okay with that?

Alternatives to Consider

If time or stylistic preferences are a concern, you could start directly with Avowed and later play Pillars of Eternity as a supplementary experience. Another option is to sample Pillars via a free trial or its early‑access demo to gauge enjoyment before committing to the full purchase.

Final Recommendation

For players who value narrative depth and have the bandwidth to invest in a classic RPG, playing Pillars of Eternity before Avowed is a worthwhile choice. If you prioritize modern visuals, streamlined gameplay, or have limited time, it’s perfectly fine to begin with Avowed and revisit Pillars later. As always, assess your own schedule and preferences before deciding.