*Avowed* offers a rich character creation experience, allowing players to delve deep into their character's identity. Beyond the mere aesthetics, you can select a Background that not only shapes your character's backstory but also influences the narrative throughout the game. Here's a comprehensive look at all the *Avowed* Backgrounds and their unique contributions to your gameplay experience.

Every Avowed Background, Listed

In *Avowed*, you have the choice between five distinct Backgrounds, each providing unique dialogue options and a starting weapon. Importantly, all Backgrounds have access to the full range of equipment and abilities, allowing for flexible gameplay. The five Backgrounds available in *Avowed* are Arcane Scholar, Court Augur, Noble Scion, Vanguard Scout, and War Hero. Let's explore the narrative role of each:

Arcane Scholar: Your character comes from an academic background, having graduated from Bragganhyl Academy. You published a treatise on soul lineages that upset a local lord, leading to your arrest. However, the emperor intervened, recruiting you to work in the imperial court archives. Arcane Scholars are well-versed in the occult, legal precedents, historical observations, and poetry, which influences your dialogue options.

Court Augur: This Background carries a tragic narrative where you were perceived as a witch due to your mystical abilities. After your village's crops failed, you were chased out by your neighbors. You found refuge in Highcrown, where the emperor elevated you to his personal mystic. Court Augurs are deeply connected with the spiritual realm, and their dialogue reflects this affinity for magic and the gods. This Background is ideal for players who want to role-play as a wizard and will likely find a strong connection with the companion Giatta.

Noble Scion: Born into wealth and influence but tainted by scandal and poor morals, your family fell apart, leading you to seek the emperor's mercy. As a Noble Scion, you're a valuable ally to the emperor, making this Background perfect for players who wish to stay loyal to the empire and carry out its directives in the Living Lands.

Vanguard Scout: Originally facing execution, the empire spared you, recognizing your skills in tracking and spying. Your humble beginnings and preference for the wilderness over city life make you an asset to the empire. This Background is suited for players who want to role-play as a hunter and may feel a kinship with the companion Marius.

War Hero: Having successfully quelled a Skaenite uprising, your bravery and loyalty earned you a place among the elite warriors under the emperor's command. This Background is ideal for players interested in a Warrior playstyle and who might find a close 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 One-Handed Melee type. As you progress through the game, you'll need to upgrade or replace these weapons. When choosing your Background, consider the one that resonates with your desired roleplay experience, as all starting weapons are readily available in the Living Lands shortly after the tutorial.

Here’s the starting weapon for each Background:

• 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.

And that’s a complete overview of every Background in *Avowed* and their roles in shaping your adventure.

*Avowed is available now on PC and Xbox.*