Venturing into the expansive and captivating world of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, I couldn’t shake the thought: “Is this really BioWare’s work in 2024?” After the mixed reception of previous titles like Anthem, Dragon Age: Inquisition, and Mass Effect: Andromeda, I was uncertain if BioWare could deliver a game of this caliber again. However, assembling a team of intriguing companions to embark on a quest to save the world felt like a reunion with old friends, both in-game and out.
Exploring the vast North of Thedas, from the shores of Rivain to the blighted Anderfels, to thwart an ancient evil’s resurgence was a delight for a long-time fan like myself. The meticulous and intentional exploration approach in Veilguard added depth to the journey.
Exploring the World
The level design in Veilguard immediately caught my attention, reminiscent of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. The interconnected corridors and hidden spaces showcased BioWare’s RPG prowess, demonstrating that a more linear approach doesn’t compromise the game’s immersive experience. The environmental art, from desolate peaks to mystical elven ruins, was visually stunning.
Character Designs
The character designs and outfits in Veilguard were exceptional. Customizing my protagonist, Rook, was a joy thanks to the detailed options available. The attention to detail, especially in the character’s appearance and hair design, was impressive.
Veilguard’s combat is a refinement of what we saw in Dragon Age 2 and Inquisition.
Despite the visual spectacle, Veilguard maintained a stable performance even at high resolutions on advanced hardware. The combat system, an evolution from the previous installments, struck a balance between action-packed gameplay and tactical elements, reminiscent of Mass Effect’s combat mechanics.
Companion Dynamics
In Veilguard, the companions play a central role, each with a unique and engaging backstory. The game excels in fleshing out these characters through personal quests, offering a depth rarely seen in RPGs. Each companion feels like a protagonist in their own right.
Veilguard also shines in authentic character representation, tackling complex themes like gender identity with sensitivity and depth. The inclusion of diverse perspectives adds richness to the storytelling.
While the overarching plot of Veilguard follows a familiar formula of uniting factions against a common enemy, the narrative is elevated by intriguing character dynamics and unexpected twists. The presence of Solas, the enigmatic elven god, adds a layer of mystery to the tale.
This story feels like both a send-off and a soft reboot, in a way.
Veilguard’s narrative, while self-contained, departs from established series lore, offering a fresh perspective. Though past decisions have minimal impact on the story, the game introduces new elements that set the stage for potential future developments.
The conclusion of Veilguard presents players with impactful choices, echoing the memorable decision-making of classic RPGs. The game’s cinematic presentation and immersive score further enhance the emotional impact of these moments.