TL;DR
- Avowed launches February 18 on Game Pass for Ultimate and PC subscribers only
- Early access begins February 13 with Premium Edition or $25 upgrade add-on
- Global release synchronized at 10 AM PST across all time zones
- Game Pass subscribers can access standard edition, premium requires separate purchase
- PlayStation 5 version not available at launch, limited to PC and Xbox Series X
Understanding Avowed’s availability through Xbox Game Pass requires careful attention to subscription tiers and platform requirements. The standard edition becomes accessible through specific Game Pass tiers, but not all subscribers will have immediate entry to this highly anticipated RPG adventure.
The standard edition of Avowed becomes available through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscription tiers starting Tuesday, February 18. Critical to note: Avowed will not be accessible for Standard and Core tier subscribers, making tier verification essential before launch day. Many players overlook this distinction and face disappointment when their subscription level doesn’t grant access.

Set within the expansive Pillars of Eternity universe of Eora, Avowed transports players to the mysterious Living Lands region. This adventure demands either a Windows PC or Xbox Series X for participation. Unfortunately, PlayStation 5 owners cannot experience Avowed at launch despite Xbox Game Studios’ recent cross-platform initiatives. The publisher hasn’t announced any plans for PlayStation availability, leaving Sony console users waiting indefinitely.

Image: Obsidian Entertainment/Xbox Game Studios
Avowed’s release follows a carefully coordinated global schedule with precise timing across regions. Understanding these time zones prevents unnecessary waiting and ensures you’re ready when the game becomes available in your location.
Developer Obsidian Entertainment confirmed Avowed activates at 10 a.m. PST on Tuesday, February 18th—identical to the early access commencement on Thursday, February 13. This synchronization simplifies planning for players across different regions. Below find comprehensive time zone conversions:
(Update, Feb. 17: This article has been refreshed following the early access period to provide accurate wide release information.)

Image: Obsidian Entertainment/Xbox Game Studios
Strategic planning around these times can significantly enhance your launch experience. Players in European time zones benefit from evening releases perfect for extended gaming sessions, while Asian and Australian gamers face early morning starts. Consider adjusting your schedule accordingly and pre-downloading the game to begin immediately at release.
The Premium Edition and Premium Upgrade Add-On provide significant advantages for eager Avowed players, particularly through early access privileges. Understanding the mechanics and limitations of these offerings ensures you make informed purchasing decisions.
Players can acquire the Premium Upgrade Add-On for $25 to unlock early access beginning February 13, plus exclusive companion cosmetics. This represents substantial savings compared to purchasing the full Premium Edition outright. However, crucial caveats apply: if your Game Pass subscription expires while using the add-on, you lose access to both the game and Premium Edition content until resubscribing.

Image: Obsidian Entertainment/Xbox Game Studios
The five-day early access period provides competitive advantages for completionists and streamers seeking to establish early presence. Companion cosmetics included with premium versions offer visual customization unavailable to standard edition players. Your save data remains intact if subscription lapses temporarily, preserving progress when you resume Game Pass membership.
Strategic recommendation: Evaluate your gaming schedule before purchasing early access. If you cannot dedicate significant time during the February 13-18 window, the standard Game Pass edition may suffice. However, content creators and hardcore fans will find the early access period invaluable for establishing community presence and mastering game mechanics ahead of the general population.
Avowed’s platform strategy reflects Microsoft’s evolving approach to game distribution, with important implications for players across different ecosystems. Understanding these platform dynamics helps manage expectations and planning.
The game launches exclusively on Windows PC and Xbox Series X, continuing Microsoft’s pattern of keeping major first-party titles within its ecosystem. While Xbox Game Studios has begun experimenting with PlayStation releases for selected titles, no announcements indicate Avowed will follow this pattern. PlayStation 5 owners should monitor official channels for potential future developments but plan alternative arrangements if eager to play at launch.
Performance considerations between platforms remain unclear, though PC versions typically offer greater graphical customization. Xbox Series X provides consistent performance profiles and quick resume functionality. Cross-save capabilities between Microsoft Store and Xbox consoles would follow established patterns but haven’t been officially confirmed for Avowed.
Looking beyond launch, historical patterns suggest potential Steam release several months post-launch, though Game Pass subscribers receive permanent access through their subscription. The Pillars of Eternity legacy creates built-in audience anticipation, making platform expansion economically viable if initial reception proves strong.
Action Checklist
- Verify your Game Pass subscription tier (Ultimate or PC required)
- Pre-download Avowed through Game Pass app before release
- Convert release time to your local time zone (10 AM PST base)
- Evaluate Premium Upgrade Add-On value based on your schedule
- Plan gaming session around regional release timing
No reproduction without permission:Game Guides » Avowed Steam and Game Pass release time, date Complete guide to Avowed Game Pass availability, release times, and premium edition early access details
