Dragon Age: The Veilguard: A New Era of Action-Oriented Combat
Dragon Age: The Veilguard deviates significantly from its predecessors, embracing a more action-focused combat system. This departure has sparked debate among fans, but the core Dragon Age elements remain, albeit adapted for this new gameplay style. Rook's background choice, impacting gameplay regardless of class, adds a layer of depth beyond simple dialogue variations.
The game features nine unique class specializations, each interwoven with the narrative and setting. Rook's connection to the Veil, for instance, prevents him from becoming a Blood Mage, mirroring the limitations of Tevinter Templars. Three specializations per class (Warrior, Mage, Rogue) are unlocked through interactions with Northern Thedas factions.
GameInformer's interview with John Elper revealed the direct connection between specializations and factions. The Mourn Watch of Nevarra, for example, might train Rook as a Reaper (utilizing "night blades") or Death Caller (focused on necromancy), depending on the chosen class. Faction selection during character creation dictates backstory, identity, and even the player's non-combat attire within the Lighthouse.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard Classes and Specializations:
Warrior:
- Reaper: A life-draining dark fighter risking death for power.
- Slayer: A two-handed weapons expert.
- Champion: A defensive sword-and-board tactician.
Mage:
- Evoker: An elemental mage wielding fire, ice, and lightning.
- Death Caller: A necromancer specializing in advanced spirit magic.
- Spellblade: A close-quarters mage using magic-infused melee attacks.
Rogue:
- Duelist: A dual-blade wielding rogue delivering swift, precise strikes.
- Saboteur: An expert in traps and explosives.
- Veil Hunter: A ranged fighter using lightning magic and a bow.
While the initial availability of specializations based on background remains unclear, each of the six factions will play a crucial narrative role. Faction choice grants Rook three unique traits affecting both combat and non-combat gameplay. Choosing the Lords of Fortune, for example, boosts damage against mercenaries, improves takedowns, and increases reputation with the faction. While appearance can be altered via the Mirror of Transformation, background, lineage, and class remain fixed.
The Veilguard aims to avoid repetitive tasks that criticized previous installments. Instead of an open world, it focuses on structured missions reminiscent of classic BioWare titles. The game's launch is scheduled for Fall 2024.
