With the release of Avowed on PlayStation 5 this week, a massive wave of new players is finally stepping into the Living Lands. Obsidian Entertainment’s latest fantasy RPG has arrived with its major "Anniversary Update 2.0" baked in, bringing polished combat and new features to the console. However, the Living Lands can be unforgiving for the unprepared. From mastering the unique dual-wielding system to finding hidden loot that most players miss, this guide covers the essential tips you need to dominate your first 10 hours.

1. Master the "Freeze and Shatter" Spellsword Combo

One of the most satisfying aspects of Avowed is its dual-wielding combat, but many beginners make the mistake of using two weapons that don't synergize. For the ultimate early-game dominance, try the Spellsword build (Sword in main hand, Grimoire in off-hand). This setup allows you to mix crowd control with high burst damage without switching loadouts.

The "Freeze and Shatter" combo is particularly devastating in the early game. First, use your Grimoire to cast Chill Blades or a freezing spell to slow and eventually freeze enemies solid. Once they are frozen, follow up immediately with a heavy melee attack or the Fighter's Charge ability. This triggers a "Shatter" effect, dealing massive critical damage that can one-shot many early-game mobs. It’s a rhythm that feels incredible on the DualSense controller and saves you precious health potions.

2. Listen for the "High-Pitch" Loot Cue

Exploration in the Living Lands relies heavily on your senses, and there is one specific audio cue that you must learn immediately. When you are near a hidden chest, rare reagent, or secret stash, the game plays a subtle, high-pitched shimmering sound. This sound gets louder as you get closer to the object.

Many of the game's best early weapons and "Fine" quality gear are tucked away behind waterfalls, inside hollow logs, or on top of ruins that require platforming. If you hear that shimmer, stop moving and rotate your camera to pinpoint the direction. PS5 players should also pay attention to subtle haptic vibrations that often accompany these discoveries, a feature refined for the console release.

3. The "Skull" System: Why Gear Level Matters More Than Your Level

If you wander into a new zone like the Emerald Stair and see enemies with red Skull icons next to their health bars, don't just assume you need to grind XP. In Avowed, these difficulty markers are often tied more closely to your Gear Level than your character level.

A common beginner trap is hoarding gold and upgrade materials for "endgame" gear. Do not do this. Visit the anvil at your party camp frequently and upgrade your favorite early weapons to "Fine" quality as soon as possible. Upgrading your weapon can instantly remove the skull icon from enemies, turning an impossible fight into a manageable one. If you're struggling, your sword is likely the problem, not your skill tree.

4. Optimize Your PS5 Settings for Combat

While Avowed looks stunning in its 30FPS Quality Mode, the fast-paced nature of its combat—especially when parrying incoming attacks—benefits significantly from the 60FPS Performance Mode. The lower input latency makes hitting those perfect blocks and dodges much more consistent.

Additionally, dive into the settings and increase your Field of View (FOV) to at least 90 or 95. The default FOV can feel a bit constricted, especially during chaotic fights with multiple enemies flanking you. A wider FOV gives you better peripheral vision, allowing you to spot incoming attacks from the sides without constantly spinning the camera.

Bonus PS5 Tip: Adaptive Triggers

Take note of the resistance in the DualSense adaptive triggers when using wands or bows. The "break point" in the trigger pull often indicates when a heavy attack or charged spell is fully prepped, allowing you to release at the perfect frame for maximum damage.

5. Don't Miss the "Hawkeye" Secret in Fort Northreach

Before you leave the early areas, there is a secret room in Fort Northreach that many players overlook. During the tutorial section or your first visit, look for a room containing a large green crystal. Nearby, you will spot a hole in the wall that looks inaccessible. It isn't.

Crouch and head through this gap to find a hidden room containing a unique chest. This secret not only nets you the "Hawkeye" achievement/trophy but also provides some excellent starting loot that will give you a leg up in the opening hours. It’s a classic Obsidian secret that sets the tone for how rewarding thorough exploration can be in the rest of the game.