Getting Started in Avowed

Your background choice affects dialogue options, starting weapon, and initial attribute spread — but it never locks you out of any weapon, spell, or ability later, so pick based on the roleplay you want.
There are no fixed classes — Fighter, Ranger, and Wizard are just skill trees you invest points into however you like, so feel free to build a hybrid from the start.
All 4 companions (Kai, Giatta, Marius, Yatzli) are non-missable, so you don't need to worry about locking yourself out of any of them through story choices.
As of Patch 2.0, you can play as Aumaua, Dwarf, or Orlan in addition to Human and Elf, each with different bonus attributes and height.