Avowed 2026: PS5 vs Xbox Series X — Price, Features & Anniversary Update Guide

TL;DR:
If you want the most complete Avowed experience day one in 2026, PS5 is the best choice — it launches with the Anniversary Update pre‑installed, a lower launch price, and full DualSense support. Xbox Series X still offers excellent performance, Game Pass value, and strong convenience features, making it a great pick if you already own the platform.

Jump Links

🎮 What’s New in 2026? PS5 Release + Massive Anniversary Update

Avowed first launched in February 2025 exclusively for Xbox Series X|S and PC. Almost exactly one year later, the game finally arrives on PlayStation 5 on February 17, 2026, tied to a big Anniversary Update that drops on all platforms.

🔥 Key Additions in the Anniversary Update (All Platforms)

  • New playable races: Aumaua, Orlan, and Dwarves, expanding customization and playstyle depth.
  • New Game Plus Mode: Restart the adventure with your equipped gear and abilities while enemies scale up.
  • Photo Mode: A long‑requested feature letting players capture stunning screenshots anywhere.
  • New Weapon Type: Broadens combat options for replayability.
  • Expanded Character Customization & Quality‑of‑Life Changes.

Importantly, Photo Mode and these new features are not PS5 exclusives — they’re part of the anniversary content available on Xbox Series X and PC as well.

💰 Price: A Strong Selling Point for PS5 Buyers

One of the most searchable and conversion‑friendly facts is that Avowed now has a lower price point for newcomers:

  • Standard Edition: ~$49.99 USD
  • Premium Edition: ~$59.99 USD (includes digital artbook, soundtrack, armor, and skins)

These prices apply across platforms, representing a permanent $20 drop from the original launch price of $69.99 on Xbox and PC. 

Avowed 2026: PS5 vs Xbox Series X

🎮 PS5 vs Xbox Series X — Feature & Performance Breakdown

Below is an updated comparison of key features and how each console stacks up for Avowed in 2026:

Feature / Aspect PS5 Xbox Series X
Launch Price & Editions $49.99 Standard, $59.99 Premium $49.99 Standard, $59.99 Premium
Anniversary Update Included Yes (pre‑installed) Yes (free update)
DualSense Adaptive Trigger & Haptics ✔ Full Support ❌ Xbox Controller Haptics Only
Performance Modes 30 / 40 / 60 FPS modes likely 30 / 40 / 60 FPS confirmed by multiple sources and developer notes via Reddit insights
Quick Resume ✔ Supported
Photo Mode ✔ (All Platforms) ✔ (All Platforms)
New Races & Content ✔ (All Platforms) ✔ (All Platforms)
Bonus Features Immersive Controller Feedback Game Pass Value & Resume

🎮 Controller Experience: DualSense vs Xbox Controller

🕹 PS5 — DualSense Immersion

The PS5 version takes advantage of DualSense haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, adding felt feedback when casting spells, drawing heavy weapons, or triggering abilities. This gives a more tactile sense of the combat loop and exploration:

For example, drawing a heavy weapon feels distinctly firmer on the triggers, while spell charging produces subtle resistance and adaptive ticks — enhancing immersion in combat moments and world traversal.

This depth of feedback targets searches like “DualSense vs Xbox controller RPG experience.”

🕹 Xbox Controllers — Reliable & Comfortable

The Xbox Series X controller remains very ergonomic with strong vibration support, but without the adaptive trigger detail unique to DualSense. It’s familiar and comfortable — especially for long sessions — and pairs well with Game Pass and Quick Resume features.

📊 Performance & Graphics — What You Can Expect

Details on precise framerate scaling or resolution differences for Avowed after the Anniversary Update are still emerging, but developer and community info suggests both consoles sustain up to 60 FPS in different modes.

  • Xbox Series X: Typically offers stable performance with 30 / 40 / 60 FPS options depending on mode choices.
  • PS5: Expected to match or exceed Series X performance thanks to streamlined OS and strong SSD, backed by DualSense-enhanced immersion.

Both versions run Avowed with the anniversary features included, so performance differences are subtle and player‑perceptual rather than massive technical gaps.

🔍 Expanded RPG Content You Should Highlight

The Anniversary Update isn’t just extra features — it reshapes Avowed’s RPG feel:

  • Playable races inject new narrative and mechanical variety.
  • New Game Plus enhances replay value, a major driver of long‑tail searches like “Avowed best builds NG+.”
  • Photo Mode empowers online community sharing and keyword traffic from user‑generated screenshots.

📌 Verdict — Which Version Is Best for You?

🏆 Best for Immersive RPG Fans: PS5

  • DualSense haptics bring spells and combat to life.
  • Anniversary content baked in day one.
  • Lower launch price adds appeal.

💡 Best for Budget‑Focused or Game Pass Players: Xbox Series X

  • Excellent performance and convenience with Quick Resume.
  • Game Pass value (if subscribed) gives biggest overall ROI.
  • Familiar controller and ecosystem if you’re already invested.

📚 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Photo Mode exclusive to PS5?

No — Photo Mode was added as part of the 2026 Anniversary Update on all platforms including Xbox and PC.

Does Avowed support DualSense haptics?

Yes — PS5 DualSense features adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that enhance combat and exploration feel.

Is there a cross‑save between PS5 and Xbox?

As of the Anniversary Update, cross‑save between platforms is not supported.

Is the Anniversary Update free on Xbox?

Yes — the update with new races, Photo Mode, and New Game Plus is free on Xbox Series X and PC.

👉 Next recommended reads:

Obsidian Entertainment Official Website — Game info & updates
Xbox Game Pass Info — Free Anniversary Update access for Game Pass members

Comments