What we’ve been playing – principles, parables, and pillars

Hello and welcome back to our regular feature where we discuss the games we’ve been playing this week. Discover what Tom O encountered in the Dead Space Remake, Tom Phillips’ new journey with Garrus, and Jim’s return to Pillars of Eternity.

Have you been diving into any exciting games lately?

Explore previous editions of this column in our What We’ve Been Playing archive.

Avowed on Xbox Series X

What did you say about Dragon Age sequels, Jim! Raging.Watch on YouTube

While playing Avowed this week, I found myself enchanted by the presence of Kai, my aquamarine fish-man companion. Voiced by Brendan Keener, known for his role as Garrus in Mass Effect, Kai has been a delightful addition to my gaming experience. His resemblance to Garrus, coupled with his abilities, brings a sense of familiarity and comfort to my new adventure. The visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5 and the intricate world-building in Avowed have also captivated me. The game’s lore guide and immersive storytelling have made my journey into Eora a memorable one.

Would Avowed hold the same appeal without Garrus by my side? Probably not. However, BioWare’s touch in creating compelling companions has once again enhanced my exploration of a new realm.

-Tom P

The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe on PS5

The Stanley Parable: less scary than Dead Space.Watch on YouTube

After braving the fear-inducing atmosphere of Dead Space, I decided to switch gears to The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe on PS5. This game, part of a recent PS Plus lineup, offered me a refreshing break from the intense horror of my previous gameplay. The light-hearted nature of The Stanley Parable has been a welcome contrast, allowing me to enjoy a more relaxed gaming experience. As I continue my gaming journey, I look forward to exploring simpler and more straightforward titles, like Pony Island.

-Tom O

Pillars of Eternity on PC

I’d just like to play Obsidian games all day long.Watch on YouTube

Following the enthralling experience of Avowed, I felt compelled to revisit the origins of the Pillars of Eternity series. The rich and immersive world of Eora continues to beckon, drawing me back into its depths. Returning to the original game highlighted the depth and cohesion of the universe right from the character creation screen. The seamless integration of lore and character backgrounds across different games within the Eora universe is a testament to the masterful storytelling of Obsidian Entertainment. As I delve deeper into the lore of Eora, I eagerly anticipate the future of this captivating world.

-Jim