Avowed’s bewitching world may dazzle, but the tarp physics are the real magic

There’s a lot to be impressed about with Avowed, from its vividly hued fungal world to its ever-changing combat system. For me, it has to be the tarp physics, a simple yet effective mechanic that instills more realism in this dark fantasy world.

I’ve gone through my fair share of jumping on tarps in video games, and without fail, it’s usually gone through the character as if they have somehow turned into a ghost. But to my surprise, Avowed has a much different approach where it actually reacts to your touch, waving around and making you slip just like it would in real life. And, if you time it right, it’ll cause a tear and eventually rip apart to cause a scene in the Living Lands’ market districts. There’s even a ripping sound as a cherry on top.

It’s such a tiny detail that I much appreciated as a gamer. Obsidian Entertainment could’ve just stuck with the old and had it pass through you, but instead, the team took the time to fine-tune it, making the game that much more realistic.

Because of it, I’ve been surfing on the tarps throughout the market district, just to see what kind of chaos the physics will throw my way next. It’s like a throwback to the carefree days of my childhood when I’d explore every nook and cranny in a game, testing the limits of its world with nothing but curiosity and mischief.

I’ve discovered many more tiny details in the many hours of my Avowed playthrough. One of my favorites has to be when I was up high, gazing at the majestic scenery, only to find the skeleton of an unfortunate traveler splattered down below. Did I loot their bag? Why, yes, I did. Got to get my money somehow.

What makes it better is that countless hidden gems still have yet to be discovered. I’ve only scratched the surface on two of them, but I’m sure you can find more. Who knows — maybe you’ll catch the wave and ride those tarps like I did, carving out your own mischievous adventures.