What is Dragon’s Dogma Similar To?

Dragon’s Dogma, the cult-classic action RPG developed by Capcom, occupies a unique space in the gaming landscape. While it boasts its own distinct identity, its gameplay and themes draw inspiration from, and share similarities with, several other popular titles. In essence, Dragon’s Dogma is similar to a blend of Monster Hunter, Shadow of the Colossus, Dark Souls, and classic Western RPGs like The Elder Scrolls: Oblivion. It combines the thrilling large-monster hunts of Monster Hunter with the epic scale and vulnerability-exploiting combat of Shadow of the Colossus. Furthermore, the challenging combat and grim atmosphere borrow from Dark Souls, while the open-world exploration and quest-driven narrative echo elements found in games like Oblivion.

Drawing Parallels: Key Similarities with Other Games

To better understand Dragon’s Dogma’s unique appeal, let’s delve deeper into the similarities it shares with these influential games:

Monster Hunter: The Thrill of the Hunt

Like Monster Hunter, Dragon’s Dogma emphasizes strategic combat against colossal creatures. Instead of simply hacking and slashing, players must learn monster attack patterns, identify weaknesses, and coordinate attacks with their party. Climbing onto monsters, targeting specific body parts, and utilizing elemental weaknesses are crucial for success. The sense of accomplishment after felling a challenging beast is reminiscent of the feeling of victory in Monster Hunter.

Shadow of the Colossus: David vs. Goliath Combat

The iconic battles against towering Colossi in Shadow of the Colossus find a spiritual successor in Dragon’s Dogma’s monster encounters. Players can scale massive creatures, clinging on for dear life while strategically attacking weak points. This vertical gameplay adds a unique dimension to combat and creates memorable, cinematic moments. The vulnerability and sense of scale are powerfully conveyed, making each victory feel earned.

Dark Souls: A Challenging and Punishing World

Dragon’s Dogma, much like Dark Souls, isn’t afraid to punish players for mistakes. Combat is deliberate and requires careful timing, positioning, and resource management. Enemies are challenging, and death can come swiftly. While not quite as punishing as Dark Souls, Dragon’s Dogma shares a similar emphasis on learning from your failures and adapting your strategy. The interconnected world and sense of exploration also resonate with the Soulsborne formula.

The Elder Scrolls: Open-World Exploration and Quests

Like The Elder Scrolls series, Dragon’s Dogma features a vast, open world ripe for exploration. Players are free to roam the land, discover hidden locations, and undertake a variety of quests. While the narrative is more focused than some Elder Scrolls games, the sense of freedom and adventure is undeniable. The day-night cycle and dynamic world events further enhance the feeling of being part of a living, breathing world.

Unique Features that Set Dragon’s Dogma Apart

While Dragon’s Dogma shares similarities with other games, it also possesses unique features that set it apart:

The Pawn System: A Revolutionary Party Mechanic

The Pawn system is arguably Dragon’s Dogma’s most innovative feature. Players create their own main Pawn, a customizable companion who accompanies them on their journey. They can also recruit two additional Pawns created by other players online. These Pawns learn from their experiences, gaining knowledge of quests, enemy weaknesses, and combat tactics. This system fosters a sense of community and provides a dynamic and engaging party experience.

Vocation System: Flexible Character Progression

Dragon’s Dogma offers a robust Vocation system that allows players to customize their character’s skills and abilities. Players can choose from a variety of Vocations, each with its own unique playstyle. They can also switch Vocations at any time, allowing them to experiment with different builds and adapt to different challenges. This flexibility encourages experimentation and allows players to create truly unique characters.

A Gripping Narrative with Epic Stakes

While the gameplay is a major draw, Dragon’s Dogma also boasts a compelling narrative with epic stakes. Players take on the role of the Arisen, a chosen one tasked with defeating a powerful dragon that threatens the world. The story is full of twists and turns, and the choices players make have a significant impact on the outcome. The narrative is both personal and grand in scope, creating a memorable and emotionally engaging experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 FAQs to provide additional valuable information about Dragon’s Dogma:

1. Is Dragon’s Dogma difficult? Yes, Dragon’s Dogma can be challenging, especially early on. Proper preparation, strategic combat, and understanding enemy weaknesses are crucial for success.

2. What is the Pawn system? The Pawn system allows you to create a customizable companion (your main Pawn) and recruit two additional Pawns created by other players online. These Pawns learn and evolve based on their experiences.

3. Can I play Dragon’s Dogma solo? While possible, it’s not recommended. The game is designed around party-based combat, and having a well-rounded team makes the experience much more enjoyable.

4. How many Vocations are there? There are nine Vocations in Dragon’s Dogma: Fighter, Strider, Mage, Warrior, Ranger, Sorcerer, Assassin, Mystic Knight, and Magick Archer.

5. Can I change my Vocation? Yes, you can change your Vocation at any time by visiting the inn in Gran Soren and talking to the Vocation Guild vendor.

6. What is the best Vocation for beginners? Fighter, Strider, and Mage are generally considered good starting Vocations due to their relatively straightforward playstyles.

7. Does Dragon’s Dogma have a new game plus mode? Yes, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen features a New Game Plus mode, allowing you to start a new game with your character’s level, skills, and equipment intact.

8. What is the Dark Arisen expansion? Dark Arisen is an expansion that adds a new area called Bitterblack Isle, along with new enemies, weapons, armor, and quests. It also includes numerous gameplay enhancements and quality-of-life improvements.

9. Is Dragon’s Dogma an open-world game? Yes, Dragon’s Dogma features a large, open world that players are free to explore.

10. Is there fast travel in Dragon’s Dogma? Yes, there are limited fast travel options using Ferrystones and Portcrystals. Portcrystals can be placed in specific locations to create fast travel points.

11. What platforms is Dragon’s Dogma available on? Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen is available on PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Google Stadia.

12. Does Dragon’s Dogma have multiplayer? No, Dragon’s Dogma is primarily a single-player experience. The Pawn system allows for indirect interaction with other players, but there is no direct multiplayer co-op.

13. How long does it take to beat Dragon’s Dogma? The main story takes around 30-40 hours to complete. Completing all side quests and exploring the world fully can easily extend playtime to 60+ hours.

14. Is Dragon’s Dogma 2 in development? Yes! Dragon’s Dogma 2 was officially announced and is currently in development.

15. Is Dragon’s Dogma worth playing in 2024? Absolutely! Despite its age, Dragon’s Dogma remains a unique and engaging action RPG with a loyal fanbase. The challenging combat, innovative Pawn system, and compelling narrative make it a must-play for fans of the genre, especially in anticipation of Dragon’s Dogma 2.