The Dragon Age Saga Continues: A Glimpse into The Veilguard

As a long-time fan of the Dragon Age series, I was thrilled to get a sneak peek at the first hour of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. The game’s creative director, John Epler, was keen to reassure me that this installment would not disappoint on the narrative front. And, I must say, the opening hour did not disappoint.

The battle to save Thedas has begun

The game drops you right into the thick of things, with Solas attempting to destroy the Veil, a construct that separates the physical realm of Thedas from the magical realm of the Fade. As a result, demonic entities and ghostly spirits are pouring into the world, and it’s up to you and your party to stop Solas and save the day.

Character customization is extensive, with options to choose from four races and three fighting classes. You can also select from various backstories that inform your character’s personality and abilities. The character creator is incredibly detailed, with sliders for body parts and overall shape, and options for voice and pronouns.

 Craft your perfect hero

The combat system looks engaging, with real-time action and the ability to pause and select further abilities. You can also romance your companions, although Epler remained tight-lipped about the specifics.

The game’s narrative is where it truly shines, with a focus on the stories of each companion. The opening hour is a thrilling ride, with a climactic battle that feels like the end of a different game. The dialogue is snappy, and the characters are well-developed and relatable.

 Meet Neve Gallus, private investigator and fashionista

The city of Minrathous is beautifully rendered, with neon magic illuminating the shops and houses. The game’s world is richly detailed, and I couldn’t help but feel excited to explore it further.

 The city of Minrathous, a beacon of hope in a world gone mad

Overall, I left my demo feeling optimistic about the direction of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. With its engaging combat, rich narrative, and lovable characters, this game is shaping up to be a true masterpiece.