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The Definitive Guide to the Best One-Handed Swords in Dragon Age

What makes a sword “the best” in the world of Dragon Age? It’s a question that’s sparked countless debates among Inquisitors, Grey Wardens, and Champions alike. Damage output, unique properties, availability, and even personal playstyle all factor into the equation. But let’s cut through the noise and get to the point:

Across the entire Dragon Age series, encompassing Origins, Awakening, II, and Inquisition, Starfang, obtainable in Dragon Age: Origins through the Warden’s Keep DLC, stands out as arguably the best all-around one-handed sword. Its sheer damage potential, coupled with its relatively early availability and the ability to customize its material composition (affecting damage type and secondary stats), makes it a truly formidable weapon in the hands of a skilled warrior or rogue.

However, the “best” sword is highly dependent on the specific game, character build, and available DLC. Here’s a breakdown of top contenders in each major title and considerations for different character archetypes:

Dragon Age: Origins

Starfang (Warden’s Keep DLC): As mentioned, a top contender thanks to its customizable material and high damage. It can be crafted using either Dragonstone or Star Metal. Dragonstone provides fire damage, while Star Metal offers cold damage and a chance to freeze enemies.
Keening Blade (Base Game – Quest “Unbound”): An excellent alternative, particularly for warriors early in the game.
Duncan’s Sword (Base Game): A solid choice if you’re playing an Arcane Warrior, especially during the initial playthrough.
Rose’s Thorn (Base Game): While not as powerful in terms of raw damage, Rose’s Thorn is unique dagger, with high armor penetration making it a potent choice for cunning rogues.

Dragon Age: Awakening

Vigilance (Awakening): Vigilance is widely regarded as the best sword in Dragon Age: Origins – Awakening because its permanent bonus stats (immunity to knockdown and other status effects) and extremely high base damage making it superior to even Starfang.

Dragon Age II

The Blade of Mercy (Act 3): Offers a good balance of damage and utility, often favored for its critical hit chance bonus.
Aveline’s Shield (Act 1): While a shield, Aveline’s Shield has a quest that rewards a good one-handed weapon at the end for completing its character quest. This makes this a good sword, especially for warriors early in the game.

Dragon Age: Inquisition

Griffon Mace Schematic (Base Game): Technically a mace, but strategically speaking, the Tier 3 Griffon Mace schematic is an exceptional choice for warriors in the base game. Focus on crafting it with materials that synergize with your build (e.g., boosting critical hit chance or guard generation).
Blade of Red Birth (Jaws of Hakkon DLC): Offers unique bonuses and is particularly strong against certain enemy types.
Crafted Swords: With the crafting system in Inquisition, the “best” sword often comes down to meticulously chosen schematics and materials. Look for schematics with multiple material slots and focus on maximizing stats like critical hit chance, critical damage, and armor penetration. Experimentation is key!

Considering Character Builds

Warriors: Prioritize weapons with high damage and stats that boost survivability (e.g., guard generation, health).
Rogues: Focus on weapons that increase critical hit chance, critical damage, and armor penetration. Look for weapons with multiple rune slots to further customize their effectiveness.
Mages: While mages primarily rely on staves, some (like Arcane Warriors in Origins) can benefit from a good one-handed sword. Duncan’s Sword is a good option for early game Arcane Warriors

FAQs: One-Handed Swords in Dragon Age

Is Starfang really as good as everyone says?

Yes, Starfang is exceptionally good, especially in Dragon Age: Origins. Its customizable material and raw damage output make it a top-tier weapon, obtainable relatively early with the Warden’s Keep DLC.
What’s the best way to get Starfang?

You must have the Warden’s Keep DLC installed for Dragon Age: Origins. Upon entering Warden’s Keep, you’ll find a meteorite. Bring this meteorite to the blacksmith, and he’ll offer to forge either a longsword (Starfang) or a greatsword.
Is there a “best” material to use when crafting Starfang?

It depends on your build. Dragonstone adds fire damage, while Star Metal adds cold damage and a chance to freeze. Consider your party composition and the types of enemies you’ll be facing.
What about two-handed weapons? Are they better than one-handed weapons in Dragon Age?

Two-handed weapons typically deal more damage per hit, but one-handed weapons allow you to equip a shield, significantly increasing your survivability. The “better” choice depends on your playstyle and the role you want to fulfill in your party.
Where can I find good weapon schematics in Dragon Age: Inquisition?

Weapon schematics can be found in various locations, including merchants, chests, and as quest rewards. Explore thoroughly and check merchant inventories regularly. Pay special attention to schematics found in DLC areas.
How important are runes for weapons in Dragon Age: Inquisition?

Runes are incredibly important. They provide powerful passive bonuses that can significantly enhance your weapon’s effectiveness. Experiment with different runes to find the best combinations for your build.
What’s the difference between a sword, a mace, and an axe in Dragon Age?

Swords generally offer a balance of damage and speed. Maces tend to have higher base damage but lower attack speed. Axes often provide bonuses against armored enemies. The best choice depends on the enemy type and your character’s stats.
Is it possible to respec my character in Dragon Age?

Yes, in Dragon Age: Inquisition, you can respec your character’s abilities using a Tactician’s Renewal amulet, purchasable from the merchant in the Undercroft at Skyhold. In Dragon Age: Origins you can also re-spec at certain locations or through console commands.
What are the most important stats to look for on a weapon?

This depends on your character class and build. Warriors typically prioritize damage and survivability stats. Rogues focus on critical hit chance, critical damage, and armor penetration. Mages look for stats that increase their spell power and mana regeneration.
Are unique weapons always better than crafted weapons?

Not necessarily. Crafted weapons, especially in Dragon Age: Inquisition, can be customized with specific materials and runes to perfectly suit your build, potentially surpassing unique weapons in terms of overall effectiveness.
How does armor penetration work in Dragon Age?

Armor penetration reduces the amount of damage absorbed by an enemy’s armor. The higher your armor penetration, the more damage you’ll deal to armored opponents.
What’s the best way to farm materials for crafting in Dragon Age: Inquisition?

Explore the world thoroughly and gather resources from veins, plants, and creatures. Completing quests and closing rifts can also reward you with valuable crafting materials. Certain perks in the Inquisition’s perk tree can increase your material gathering efficiency.
Is Dragon Age: Inquisition multiplayer worth playing?

The multiplayer mode in Dragon Age: Inquisition offers a unique cooperative experience, allowing you to team up with friends to tackle challenging dungeons and earn rewards. It’s a fun way to test your skills and acquire valuable loot.
Can my companions use the best weapons I find?

Yes, your companions can equip the weapons you find or craft, as long as they meet the stat requirements. Equipping your companions with powerful weapons is essential for success in combat.
Where can I learn more about the impact of gaming on learning?

You can explore the fascinating intersection of games and education by visiting the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. Discover research and insights into how games can enhance learning and skill development. The benefits of gaming are constantly evolving, with organizations like GamesLearningSociety.org helping to clarify its place in education.

Ultimately, the “best” one-handed sword in Dragon Age is the one that best complements your character build, playstyle, and the challenges you face. Experiment, explore, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Happy adventuring!

What is the best one handed sword in dragon Age?