How Good is Dragon Age 2?
Dragon Age 2, released in 2011, is an action role-playing game developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts. It is the sequel to Dragon Age: Origins and the second major installment in the Dragon Age series. The game received mixed reviews from critics and players, with some praising its engaging story and improved combat mechanics, while others criticized its repetitive gameplay and lack of character customization. So, how good is Dragon Age 2?
Engaging Storyline
One of the strongest aspects of Dragon Age 2 is its engaging storyline. The game takes place in the city of Kirkwall, where you play as Hawke, a member of a noble family who becomes embroiled in a complex web of politics and conspiracies. The story is well-written and features a strong narrative voice, with well-developed characters and motivations. The game’s story is also heavily focused on the player’s choices, with multiple endings and branching storylines.
Improved Combat Mechanics
Another significant improvement in Dragon Age 2 is its combat mechanics. The game features a more dynamic and responsive combat system, with a greater emphasis on strategy and player agency. The addition of new abilities, such as the "stun" and "daze" effects, adds a new layer of depth to the combat, making it more challenging and rewarding. The game also features a new "Tactical Pause" system, which allows players to pause the action and issue commands to their party members.
Character Customization
One of the criticisms of Dragon Age 2 is its limited character customization options. Unlike Dragon Age: Origins, which featured a deep and complex character creation system, Dragon Age 2’s character customization is more streamlined and simplified. While this makes it easier for new players to jump in, it also limits the depth and complexity of the character customization.
Repetitive Gameplay
Another criticism of Dragon Age 2 is its repetitive gameplay. The game’s storyline is heavily focused on the player’s character, with much of the game taking place in a single city. This can lead to a sense of repetition and monotony, as players complete similar tasks and quests over and over again.
Graphical Improvements
Dragon Age 2 features improved graphics compared to its predecessor. The game’s environments are more detailed and visually appealing, with a greater emphasis on lighting and textures. The character models and animations are also improved, with more realistic movements and expressions.
Soundtrack and Sound Design
The game’s soundtrack and sound design are also notable. The music is well-composed and adds to the game’s atmosphere, with a mix of orchestral and choral pieces. The sound effects are also well-done, with realistic sound effects and voice acting.
Conclusion
Overall, Dragon Age 2 is a solid game that builds upon the foundation of Dragon Age: Origins. Its engaging storyline, improved combat mechanics, and graphical improvements make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the series. However, its limited character customization options and repetitive gameplay may be off-putting for some players. If you’re a fan of the series or action RPGs in general, Dragon Age 2 is definitely worth checking out.
FAQs
Q: Is Dragon Age 2 worth playing?
A: Yes, Dragon Age 2 is worth playing, especially if you’re a fan of the series or action RPGs. Its engaging storyline and improved combat mechanics make it a worthwhile experience.
Q: Is Dragon Age 2 better than Dragon Age: Origins?
A: It depends on personal preference. Dragon Age: Origins is a more complex and challenging game, while Dragon Age 2 is more streamlined and accessible. If you prefer a more complex game with deeper character customization, Dragon Age: Origins may be the better choice.
Q: Is Dragon Age 2 compatible with PC, PS3, and Xbox 360?
A: Yes, Dragon Age 2 is compatible with PC, PS3, and Xbox 360. The game’s controls and graphics are optimized for each platform.
Q: How long does it take to complete Dragon Age 2?
A: The game’s main storyline can be completed in around 20-30 hours, depending on the player’s choices and level of difficulty. The game also features a large amount of additional content, including side quests and multiplayer modes.
Q: Is Dragon Age 2 a co-op game?
A: No, Dragon Age 2 is not a co-op game. While the game features multiplayer modes, including a competitive multiplayer mode, the main storyline is single-player only.
Q: Can I import my Dragon Age: Origins save into Dragon Age 2?
A: No, you cannot import your Dragon Age: Origins save into Dragon Age 2. The game’s story and characters are separate from those of Dragon Age: Origins.
Q: Is Dragon Age 2’s story connected to the rest of the Dragon Age series?
A: Yes, Dragon Age 2’s story is connected to the rest of the Dragon Age series. The game takes place in the same world as Dragon Age: Origins and features several characters and plot points from the original game.
Q: Can I play Dragon Age 2 on Mac?
A: Yes, Dragon Age 2 is compatible with Mac computers, and can be played through Steam or Origin.
Table: Key Features of Dragon Age 2
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Storyline | Engaging and complex storyline with multiple endings and branching storylines |
| Combat Mechanics | Improved combat system with new abilities and strategic depth |
| Character Customization | Limited character customization options compared to Dragon Age: Origins |
| Graphical Improvements | Improved graphics with more detailed environments and character models |
| Soundtrack and Sound Design | Well-composed soundtrack and realistic sound effects and voice acting |
Bullets List: Pros and Cons of Dragon Age 2
- Pros:
- Engaging storyline with multiple endings and branching storylines
- Improved combat mechanics with new abilities and strategic depth
- Improved graphics with more detailed environments and character models
- Well-composed soundtrack and realistic sound effects and voice acting
- Cons:
- Limited character customization options compared to Dragon Age: Origins
- Repetitive gameplay with too much repetition and not enough variety
- Lack of complexity and challenge compared to Dragon Age: Origins