How to find and use lockpicks in Avowed

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In a fantasy role-playing game (RPG), leaving out lockpicking seems off-kilter, similar to a side-scrolling brawler lacking roasted chicken bonuses or an interactive simulation missing air ducts. Tinkering with locks to acquire hidden riches is one of the delightful aspects of an engaging open-world RPG experience, and Avowed doesn’t shy away from this charm.

In our gaming hub, PCG, we’re quite fond of Avowed, Obsidian’s shroomy RPG. Unlike some games, like Starfield, it offers a straightforward and uncomplicated approach to lockpicking. You won’t waste precious minutes trying to pick a lock, only to discover a chicken sandwich and a replacement lockpick (yes, we’re looking at you, Starfield). However, there are a few factors to keep in mind when burglarizing your way through the Living Lands in Avowed, so let me share some insights on using lockpicks.

How does lockpicking work in Avowed?

In contrast to other Role-Playing Games, opening locked chests in Avowed doesn’t rely on an ability or skill check. Instead, a locked chest shows the number of lockpicks needed to open it, with tougher chests requiring more lockpicks (up to five in my observation). If you have enough lockpicks, all you need to do is press and hold the action key, and the chest will magically open for you. It’s straightforward!

In the realm of Avowed, there’s no understanding of theft whatsoever. So, whether you’re caught peeking or digging through someone else’s treasure box, it’s all fair game – you’re free to grab it if you spot it.

Where to find lockpicks?

Lockpicks are obtainable from merchants, or they can be obtained as loot from enemies or discovered in wild areas. Bandits tend to drop lockpicks more often than any other type of enemy. However, it’s rare to find them in the wilderness, so it’s usually wise to buy them from merchants before embarking on your journey. The advantage is that numerous merchants in each region offer them for sale, making them easy to accumulate. Additionally, vendors replenish their stock of lockpicks and other items frequently, so you won’t need to worry about running out.

Here are some places you’re guaranteed to find lockpicks in the first two regions:

Dawnshore:

  • Lynna (Claviger’s Landing, near docks)
  • Shantytown Merchant (Paradis Shantytown)
  • Flint (The Grinning Balarok)
  • Kerthed “Cutty” Colen (Paradis Hightown)

Emerald Stair:

  • Stephan (Essence of War in Fior mes Iverno)
  • Alyssa (just north of Naku Tedek Grounds)
  • Merchant Emilio (Emerald Stair Coastal Farms)

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve noticed that merchants’ stock of lockpicks is quite scarce and they don’t seem to restock them often. However, this isn’t something to worry about, as locked chests are rare finds. To ensure you always have enough lockpicks for every chest in the game, simply buy them whenever you can, and keep an eye out for any you might stumble upon in the wilderness. This strategy should guarantee a plentiful supply of lockpicks to open every chest in the game.

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2025-02-18 18:07