Should I Play Dragon Age Origins or Awakening First?
Introduction
The Dragon Age series has captivated gamers worldwide with its rich storyline, engaging characters, and exciting gameplay. If you’re new to the series or considering playing it for the first time, you might be wondering which game to play first: Dragon Age Origins (DA:O) or Awakening. In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth comparison of the two games and help you decide which one to play first.
Story and Setting
Dragon Age Origins is the original game that started the series, set in a high-fantasy world called Ferelden. The game follows the Grey Warden, a character created by the player, as they strive to unite the warring factions and save Ferelden from the Blight, a deadly curse that threatens to destroy the land.
Dragon Age Awakening, on the other hand, is an expansion pack set three years after the events of DA:O, in the same world of Ferelden. It follows the Grey Warden Commander, who is tasked with eliminating a demonic threat to the kingdom of Amaranthine, a recently discovered land.
Should You Play DA:O First?
- Pros:
- Origins is the original game that set the foundation for the series.
- The game has a more complex storyline with a richer backstory.
- DA:O features a more diverse cast of characters with unique personalities and motivations.
- The game has a more challenging gameplay, especially in the early stages.
- Cons:
- DA:O can be overwhelming for new players due to its complex storyline and gameplay mechanics.
- Some players may find the game’s tone too dark and mature.
Should You Play Awakening First?
- Pros:
- Awakening is a standalone story with a more contained narrative, making it easier to follow.
- The game has a more refined combat system and improved character classes.
- Awakening features a more manageable cast of characters, making it easier for new players to keep track.
- The game’s tone is generally more lighthearted and humorous.
- Cons:
- Awakening is an expansion pack, which means it builds upon the events of DA:O.
- Playing Awakening first may spoil some of the surprises and plot twists from the original game.
Comparison Table: DA:O vs Awakening
| Game | Story | Setting | Gameplay | Tone | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DA:O | Complex, rich backstory | Ferelden | Challenging, diverse | Dark, mature | Experienced players, series veterans |
| Awakening | Standalone, more contained | Ferelden and Amaranthine | Improved, more manageable | Lighthearted, humorous | New players, those who enjoy expansions |
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Dragon Age Origins and Awakening are excellent games in their own right, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses. If you’re new to the series or prefer a more contained narrative, Awakening might be the better choice. However, if you’re willing to invest time in a complex story and challenging gameplay, DA:O is the way to go.
FAQs and Answers
Q: Can I play DA:O without playing Awakening?
A: Yes, DA:O can be played as a standalone game without needing to play Awakening first. The game’s story is self-contained, and playing Awakening will not affect the events or ending of DA:O.
Q: Is Awakening a mandatory prequel to DA:O?
A: No, Awakening is an optional expansion pack that builds upon the events of DA:O. You can play Awakening first, but keep in mind that you will miss out on some of the story’s surprises and plot twists.
Q: Will I miss out on important backstory and lore if I play Awakening first?
A: Yes, playing Awakening first will mean you’ll miss out on the rich backstory and lore established in DA:O. However, Awakening does include some explanations and references to the original game’s events, so you’ll still be able to understand the story.
Q: Is Awakening a better starting point for new players?
A: Yes, Awakening is a more accessible starting point for new players, thanks to its more contained narrative and refined gameplay mechanics.
Q: Will I lose any progress if I decide to play DA:O after Awakening?
A: No, your progress and saves from Awakening will not be affected if you decide to play DA:O afterwards.
Q: Are the characters and storylines different between DA:O and Awakening?
A: Yes, the characters and storylines in DA:O and Awakening are different, although they share some common characters and themes.
Q: Can I import my DA:O save into Awakening?
A: No, it’s not possible to import your DA:O save into Awakening. The two games have different save systems and are designed to be played separately.
Q: Will I experience any spoilers if I play Awakening first?
A: Yes, playing Awakening first will mean you’ll encounter spoilers for DA:O. The expansion pack includes references and explanations for the original game’s events, so be prepared for some surprises to be spoiled.
By considering the pros and cons of each game, you can make an informed decision about which one to play first. Whichever game you choose, you can rest assured that you’ll be treated to an engaging and immersive gaming experience with Dragon Age Origins and Awakening.