Dragon Age: Unveils Game's Lore

Dragon Age: The Veilguard transcends simple dialogue choices; your character's background significantly impacts gameplay, irrespective of class. A departure from the series' roots, The Veilguard embraces a more action-focused combat system, a decision sparking considerable debate among fans. However, core Dragon Age elements remain, albeit adapted for this new combat style.

The game features nine unique class specializations, each intricately woven into the narrative and setting. Rook's connection to the Veil, for instance, prevents him from becoming a Blood Mage, while Tevinter Templars lack the magical suppression abilities of their southern counterparts. Three specializations per class (Warrior, Mage, Rogue) unlock through interaction with Northern Thedas' factions.

GameInformer's interview with John Elper revealed a direct link between specializations and factions. The Mourn Watch of Nevarra, for example, might train Rook as a Reaper or Death Caller, depending on his class. The Reaper, a novel specialization, utilizes "night blades," while the Death Caller focuses on necromancy. Faction selection during character creation shapes backstory, identity, and even non-combat attire within the Lighthouse.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard Classes and Specializations

Warrior:

• Reaper: A dark fighter who sacrifices health 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 melee mage utilizing magic-infused attacks.

Rogue:

• Duelist: A dual-blade wielder 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, all six factions play pivotal roles in The Veilguard's narrative. Faction choice grants three unique gameplay-altering traits, both in and out of combat. Choosing the Lords of Fortune, for example, boosts damage against mercenaries, improves takedowns, and increases reputation with that faction. Appearance is customizable, but background, lineage, and class remain fixed.

Unlike its predecessor, The Veilguard avoids tedious side quests, opting for focused missions reminiscent of classic BioWare titles. While not open-world, this design choice aims to recapture the success of past games. The ultimate success of these design choices will be revealed upon launch in Fall 2024.