*Avowed* offers an immersive character creation experience, allowing players to not only customize their character's appearance but also choose a Background that enriches their backstory and influences their journey through the game. Here's a detailed look at each *Avowed* Background and their unique contributions to your gameplay.
Every Avowed Background, Listed

In *Avowed*, you can select from five distinct Backgrounds, each providing unique dialogue options and a starting weapon. Importantly, all Backgrounds can utilize any equipment and abilities available in the game. The five Backgrounds are: Arcane Scholar, Court Augur, Noble Scion, Vanguard Scout, and War Hero. Let's delve into the narrative role each Background plays:
Arcane Scholar: This Background casts you as an academic, with a history tied to Bragganhyl Academy. You authored a treatise on soul lineages that challenged a local lord's legitimacy, leading to your arrest. However, the emperor saw your potential and recruited you to work in the imperial court archives. Arcane Scholars are well-versed in the occult, legal precedents, historical observations, and poetry, which influences their dialogue choices.
Court Augur: With a tragic backstory, Court Augurs are perceived as witches due to their mystical abilities. After visions of their neighbors turning against them following crop failures, they fled to Highcrown, where the emperor took them under his wing as his personal mystic. Court Augurs are deeply connected to the spiritual realm, offering dialogue options that resonate with magic and the gods. This Background is ideal for players interested in a wizard role and those who wish to connect with the companion Giatta.
Noble Scion: Noble Scions represent the failed offspring of influential, wealthy, yet morally dubious nobles. After their family's downfall due to scandal, they sought refuge with the emperor. As invaluable allies to the empire, Noble Scions are perfect for players who wish to remain loyal and serve the empire's interests throughout the Living Lands.
Vanguard Scout: Spared from execution by the empire, Vanguard Scouts have lived a humble life, preferring the wilderness over city life and politics. Their tracking and spying skills make them valuable assets to the empire. This Background suits players looking to role-play as a hunter and connect with the companion Marius.
War Hero: Having quelled a violent Skaenite uprising, War Heroes were rewarded by the emperor with a position among elite warriors. Their loyalty and grit make them essential to the empire. This Background is ideal for players interested in a warrior role and those who may find a connection with the companion Kai.
Every Background’s Starting Weapon in Avowed

Each Background in *Avowed* comes with a starting weapon, though these are of Common Quality and are one-handed melee items. As you progress through the game, you'll need to upgrade or replace these weapons. Therefore, it's advisable to choose a Background based on the narrative and role-playing aspects you enjoy most, as all starting weapons can be found in the Living Lands shortly after the tutorial.
Here's a list of each Background's starting weapon:
- Arcane Scholar – Common Dagger (One-Handed)
- Court Augur – Common Mace (One-Handed)
- Noble Scion – Common Sword (One-Handed)
- Vanguard Scout – Common Axe (One-Handed)
- War Hero – Common Spear (One-Handed)
You'll find your starting weapon leaning against some crates near the shipwreck during the On Strange Shores Quest.
That covers all the Backgrounds in *Avowed* and their roles in shaping your adventure. *Avowed* is now available on PC and Xbox, ready for you to dive into its rich world and compelling narratives.