When Avowed first launched on Xbox and PC a year ago, it was praised for its colorful world but criticized for a combat system that felt slightly undercooked. Now, with the release of the Avowed PS5 review version on February 17, 2026, Obsidian Entertainment hasn't just ported the game—they’ve perfected it. Arriving alongside the massive ‘Anniversary Update,’ this release transforms the Living Lands into the deep, polished fantasy playground RPG fans have been waiting for. With a revamped feature set including New Game Plus, new playable races, and immersive Avowed DualSense haptics, the PlayStation 5 version is arguably the definitive way to play.

The Anniversary Update: A Game-Changer for Everyone

The headline for this release isn't just the new platform; it's the substantial Avowed anniversary update features that come bundled with it. Obsidian has listened to twelve months of community feedback and delivered a systems-focused overhaul that touches almost every aspect of the game.

The most significant addition is the New Game Plus mode, which finally gives players a reason to return to Eora. Unlike standard replay modes, this version introduces "Malice" modifiers—new enemy traits that force you to rethink your strategies. For instance, you might encounter Xaurips that are immune to fire or skeletons that explode on death. Carrying over your abilities and unique gear feels empowering, but the increased aggression from enemies ensures the challenge remains high.

Character creation has also seen a massive expansion. You can finally play as a Dwarf, Aumaua, or Orlan, bringing the total playable races to five. Each race comes with unique passive bonuses and dialogue reactivity, making a second playthrough feel narratively distinct. If you regret your look halfway through, the new "Magic Mirror" at camp allows for instant appearance changes—a quality-of-life fix that was sorely missing at launch.

Avowed PS5 vs Xbox Performance: How Does it Run?

Technical performance is often a concern with late ports, but the Avowed PS5 vs Xbox performance comparison reveals a highly polished conversion. The PS5 version offers three distinct graphical modes:

  • Performance Mode: Targets a smooth 60fps with dynamic resolution. While there are occasional dips in the most chaotic battles, it remains fluid and responsive.
  • Quality Mode: Locks to a crisp 30fps at 1440p, featuring improved shadow quality and denser foliage.
  • Balanced Mode: A 40fps option for 120Hz displays, offering the best compromise between visual fidelity and input latency.

Comparatively, the PS5 version stands toe-to-toe with the Series X. While distant shadow rendering is slightly pulled back in some hub areas on Sony's console, the frame pacing is exceptionally stable. PS5 Pro owners get a "Pro Enhanced" badge, though the benefits are subtle—mostly stabilizing the 60fps performance mode rather than adding new ray-tracing features.

Combat Refinements and DualSense Immersion

The "Anniversary Update" brings a much-needed refresh to combat. The introduction of Quarterstaffs as a weapon type opens up new "battlemage" playstyles, allowing for rapid, sweeping attacks that flow seamlessly into spellcasting. Furthermore, new melee finisher animations have been added, addressing the repetitive nature of late-game fights found in the original release.

Exclusive to this version is the Avowed DualSense haptics integration, which elevates the immersion significantly. Drawing a bowstring tightens the adaptive triggers with palpable resistance, while casting a fire spell produces a subtle, crackling rumble in the palms. Feeling the thud of a heavy shield bash or the distinct texture of walking on stone versus grass adds a tactile layer that Xbox players simply don't get. It’s these subtle details that make the Obsidian Entertainment Avowed review on PS5 feel special.

Is It Worth Playing in 2026?

For PlayStation owners, the answer is a resounding yes. As one of the best PS5 fantasy RPGs 2026 has to offer so far, Avowed fills a niche that has been empty for too long. The colorful, weird, and wonderful world of the Living Lands looks stunning on the console, and the writing remains sharp, funny, and reactive.

The inclusion of the Photo Mode is the cherry on top, allowing players to capture the game's vibrant art style without UI clutter. Whether you are delving into the new Avowed New Game Plus guide strategies or just experiencing the story for the first time, this package offers incredible value at the standard $49.99 price point.

Verdict

The wait was worth it. Avowed on PS5 isn't just a port; it's the "Game of the Year" edition in all but name. With a year's worth of polish, meaningful new content, and excellent controller implementation, it stands as a must-play RPG.