Are the Old Dragon Age Games Still Worth Playing? A Deep Dive
Absolutely, unequivocally, yes! The Dragon Age games, particularly Dragon Age: Origins and Dragon Age II, are not just worth playing, they’re experiences every RPG fan should have under their belt. Even with advancements in gaming technology, the rich lore, compelling characters, impactful choices, and engaging combat of these titles stand the test of time. While Inquisition offers a more modern experience, the foundations laid by its predecessors are vital for understanding and truly appreciating the world of Thedas. Forget graphical fidelity for a moment, and immerse yourself in a world where your decisions genuinely matter. The original Dragon Age games have stood the test of time, and I highly recommend them. This review will showcase that even for modern audiences, the world of the Dragon Age remains rich, engaging, and deeply rewarding.
Why Dragon Age: Origins Remains a Masterpiece
Dragon Age: Origins is often hailed as the best in the series, and for good reason. Its strength lies in its intricate character development, branching storylines, and a grim, mature fantasy setting that pulls no punches. You begin by choosing one of six distinct origin stories, each dramatically shaping your early game experience and influencing your character’s interactions throughout the rest of the narrative. This provides immense replay value and allows you to truly embody your Warden.
The combat system, while perhaps feeling a bit clunky compared to modern action RPGs, is deeply strategic. You control a party of up to four characters, pausing the action to issue commands and coordinate tactics. Mastering this system is key to surviving the Blight, a cataclysmic event that threatens to engulf the entire world.
Key highlights of Dragon Age: Origins include:
- Compelling characters: Each companion has their own unique backstory, motivations, and relationships with the Warden. Building friendships (or rivalries) is crucial to unlocking their full potential.
- Meaningful choices: Your decisions have real consequences, shaping the fate of nations, influencing the lives of your companions, and ultimately determining the ending you receive.
- Deep lore: The world of Thedas is richly detailed, with a complex history, diverse cultures, and a fascinating mythology.
- Strategic combat: The tactical combat system rewards careful planning and coordination.
Dragon Age II: A Divisive but Valuable Entry
Dragon Age II is often considered the black sheep of the series, due to its departure from the traditional origin stories and its focus on a single protagonist, Hawke, over a decade. While it shares some similar elements to the original, Dragon Age 2’s greatest strength lies in the exploration of the themes of identity and family against the backdrop of a society descending into chaos and war. Its recurring location is a little tiresome after a few playthroughs, but it brings its own appeal in the form of new gameplay mechanics.
However, Dragon Age II’s unique narrative structure, character interactions, and themes are more than enough to justify a playthrough. While Dragon Age 2 is not without its flaws, it is worth the effort to play for yourself. The story itself is what really makes Dragon Age 2 stand out.
Key highlights of Dragon Age II include:
- A more personal story: The focus on Hawke’s journey, and the people around them creates a stronger emotional connection to the characters and their struggles.
- Dynamic combat: The combat system is faster and more fluid than in Origins, with a greater emphasis on action.
- Meaningful character relationships: The relationships between Hawke and their companions are deeply explored and play a significant role in the story.
- Exploring the Grey Areas: Dragon Age II delves into moral ambiguities, forcing players to make difficult choices with no easy answers.
Bridging the Gap to Inquisition and Beyond
Playing Dragon Age: Origins and Dragon Age II provides invaluable context for Dragon Age: Inquisition. Many characters, events, and political factions from the previous games reappear in Inquisition, and understanding their history makes the experience far more rewarding. Furthermore, choices you made in Origins and II can have significant consequences in Inquisition, shaping the world and influencing the storyline. The Dragon Age series is a connected world, so do yourself a favour and experience the earlier games if you intend to play Inquisition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to play previous Dragon Age games to understand Inquisition?
Not necessarily, but you’ll miss out on a lot of context and references. Inquisition does a decent job of explaining the basics, but having played Origins and II enriches the experience significantly. Also, your world state from previous games will be imported, affecting certain events and character appearances.
2. Which Dragon Age game should I play first?
Dragon Age: Origins is the perfect starting point. It introduces the world of Thedas, establishes the lore, and sets the stage for subsequent games.
3. Is Dragon Age: Origins still worth playing in 2023?
Absolutely! Despite its age, the game’s compelling story, deep characters, and strategic combat hold up incredibly well. Many consider it the pinnacle of the series.
4. What order should I play the Dragon Age games in?
The recommended order is Dragon Age: Origins, then Dragon Age II, followed by Dragon Age: Inquisition. Playing in this order allows you to follow the overarching narrative and appreciate the evolution of the series.
5. Is Dragon Age similar to Skyrim?
Both are massive RPGs, but they differ significantly. Skyrim is an open-world sandbox with a focus on exploration and player freedom. Dragon Age is more story-driven, with a greater emphasis on character development and strategic combat.
6. Which Dragon Age game is the longest?
Dragon Age: Inquisition is generally considered the longest, especially with all the DLC. However, Dragon Age: Origins – Ultimate Edition comes in close second, with all of its extra content.
7. Which Dragon Age game has the best romance options?
This is subjective, but Dragon Age: Origins is often praised for its romances, particularly those with Morrigan, Alistair, and Leliana. Dragon Age 2 has the romance with Anders, who also appears in Inquisition. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences.
8. Which class is most fun in Dragon Age?
Again, this is subjective. Rogues are popular for their versatility and DPS. Mages are powerful and versatile, but warriors offer a more straightforward, melee-focused experience. In the long run, Mage provides some of the best story elements in the games as well.
9. Is Dragon Age a AAA game?
Yes, Dragon Age: Inquisition is a AAA title, developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts.
10. Is Dragon Age a horror game?
No, but it contains elements of dark fantasy and horror. The Blight and its creatures can be genuinely unsettling, and the games explore some very dark themes.
11. Is Dragon Age 2 easy?
Dragon Age II is generally considered easier than Origins, especially on lower difficulty settings. However, Nightmare difficulty can provide a significant challenge.
12. Which is better, Dragon Age or Elder Scrolls?
It depends on what you’re looking for. The Elder Scrolls series offers a greater sense of freedom and exploration, while Dragon Age excels in character development and story-telling.
13. Do you have to romance in Dragon Age: Inquisition?
No, romancing is entirely optional.
14. Is Dragon Age 4 a sequel to Inquisition?
Yes, Dragon Age: Dreadwolf is a direct sequel to Inquisition.
15. Where can I learn more about the educational aspects of gaming?
For insights into how games can be used for learning and development, check out the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org.
Conclusion: Dive into Thedas
The Dragon Age games are more than just RPGs; they’re immersive experiences that will stay with you long after the credits roll. While the graphics may not be cutting-edge, the compelling stories, memorable characters, and meaningful choices make them well worth playing in 2023 and beyond. So, grab your sword and shield, gather your companions, and prepare to embark on an epic adventure in the world of Thedas!