"Avowed: The Decision to Free Ilora Explained"

At the beginning of Avowed, you'll face a crucial decision regarding Ilora, a suspicious prisoner held in Fort Northreach. Your ultimate objective is to use her boat to reach Paradis, but the choice between freeing or leaving Ilora has significant consequences for your journey. Here's a detailed look at what happens with each option and why freeing Ilora is recommended.

Should You Free or Leave Ilora?

In Avowed, it's highly recommended to free Ilora. Not only does this decision align with a more compassionate approach, but it also makes navigating Fort Northreach easier and unlocks a beneficial side quest later in the game.

What Happens If You Free Ilora in Avowed?

Freeing Ilora proves to be a wise decision. She will assist you in defeating enemies throughout the island, including the formidable boss, Steadman Ralke. Given that your character starts off relatively weak with limited access to powerful weapons and armor, Ilora's help significantly eases the challenge. Moreover, freeing her sets the stage for the "Escape Plan" side quest later in the game, where her presence will make things much smoother.

How to Free Ilora

To free Ilora, you need to retrieve the key from the Warden's Room. Head to the end of the hallway, climb up the crates, and jump across to the platform. Enter the passageway above, then break through the boards on your right to access the Warden's Room. The key is conveniently located beside the door. Remember, regardless of your choice with Ilora, use the key to open the adjacent cell to obtain the Deerskin Gloves.

What Happens If You Don’t Free Ilora in Avowed?

Choosing not to free Ilora complicates your experience at Fort Northreach and the "Escape Plan" quest later on. Instead of aiding you, Ilora will become an adversary you must fight during your escape, intensifying the challenge. The only benefit to this path is the opportunity to loot her body afterward, acquiring items that reflect your less merciful decision.

In conclusion, freeing Ilora in Avowed not only aligns with a more empathetic approach but also strategically enhances your gameplay experience.

Avowed is available now.