Warning: Minor spoilers contained for Dragon Age: Origins, Dragon Age 2, Dragon Age: Inquisition, and Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
After a 10 year wait, Dragon Age: The Veilguard is finally here, and I’ve managed to put in some serious time in Thedas. Since Origins, we’ve played multiple customizable characters: a Grey Warden, a Champion, the Inquisitor, and now Rook.
While Origins and Dragon Age: 2 are still important to Veilguard’s story, the main emphasis is on the events of Inquisition, and Solas’ part in the tearing of the veil. His plan to undo the veil and restore the ancient elven world continues, even at the risk of destroying everything in the process.
This is a game that feels refreshed but familiar, and if you’re a Dragon Age fan, it’s one that you don’t want to miss.
Graphics
Here’s the thing about Dragon Age: No two games look the same. Familiar characters are easily recognizable, but each title carries its own flair, and Veilguard has a lot of it. Many people criticized the game’s “cartoonish” artwork and character design, but for me, it made the world—and the people in it—feel more expressive. Hearing Rook’s voice match the expressions on her face, even in microscopic moments, is really freaking cool. There’s still a lot of darkness and grit to be seen, as evidenced by numerous gross blight boils and blood-spattering darkspawn.
Landscapes are breathtaking. From the green of the Arlathan Forest to the waves of the Rivaini coast, each location feels different and dynamic. Long gone are the repetitive dungeons of DA2 or the endless running in the Hinterlands in Inquisition. With an Eluvian ready to warp you anywere in Thedas, you’re going to be seeing a lot of different terrains and weather patterns.
Gameplay
As a mage (this is the only class I’ve played so far), I didn’t want to stand in one spot and hit buttons. We’ve seen an evolution in Dragon Age’s gameplay, specifically its combat mechanics. From strategic placement reminescent of Baldur’s Gate to fast hack-and-slash movements, the combat in Thedas hasn’t always been consistent. If you’re a fan of movement, Veilguard should feel satisfying.
Battles aren’t simply about button-smashing, and being a mage isn’t all about flinging fireballs at darkspawn from a distance. You can alternate between short and long distance attacks, switching between the usual staff and the new blade and orb, allowing you to dive into some really fun close combat.
Outside of battle, movement feels fluid and engaging, allowing you to sprint and jump over obstacles. Exploring and finding loot is also satisfying, and the only downside is accidentally bunny hopping while trying to pick up some materials.
Side note: You can pet the dogs.
Characters
The characters are the heart and soul of every Dragon Age title, and this one is no different. With a cast of characters, sometimes it’s easy to pick and choose favorites, allowing others to fade into obscurity, but Veilguard doesn’t allow this to happen. Each character has their own motivations and unique personality, and everything Rook does is judged, sometimes in catastrophic ways. Nurturing each relationship is a vital part of the experience.
Your inner circle contains seven characters: Harding, Bellara, Taash, Davrin, Lucanis, Neve, and Emmrich, each of them bringing specific skills and knowledge to the table. Your choices in the world of Thedas will shape the way they see you as a fresh leader in a growing crisis.
Romance
As with any Dragon Age game, romance is a key factor in the way you interact with characters. Flirting with companions will unlock unique romantic dialogue, but you won’t always agree with your love interest (and they won’t always agree with you). A rivalmance is totally possible for those who yearn for more “enemies-to-lovers” storylines. Whatever your preference, unfolding romantic relationships feels like a delightful slow burn that will leave you wanting more.
Overall Opinion
I’ve waited 10 years for Dragon Age. Did I already mention that? There is always going to be fear behind a series as beloved as this one. With so much time passed, I wasn’t sure what to expect. So far, this game has been nothing but a delight, introducing a fresh new look at Thedas while inserting some super familiar faces (but I won’t spoil anything).
If you’re a fan of the series, Dragon Age: The Veilguard shouldn’t be missed. I have a feeling this game is going to become my personality for a while. Or… at least until the next Mass Effect comes out.