Dragon Age: The Veilguard - PS5

Dragon Age: The Veilguard is a 2024 action role-playing game developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts. As the fourth major installment in the Dragon Age series, it continues the rich narrative tradition of its predecessors. Players assume the role of Rook, a customizable protagonist, who must thwart the plans of the elven trickster god, Solas, intent on ending the world. Along the journey, Rook inadvertently releases two other malevolent elven deities, adding layers of complexity to the mission.

The game shifts from the open-world design of its predecessor, Dragon Age: Inquisition, to a hub-and-spoke model. This structure offers discrete levels accessed via fast travel, providing a more focused exploration experience. The combat system has been revamped to emphasize real-time action, drawing inspiration from titles like Sony's God of War (2018). Players can execute combo abilities, enhancing the dynamic feel of battles.

Character customization is extensive, allowing players to select from lineages such as human, dwarf, elf, or qunari, and classes including rogue, mage, or warrior. Additionally, players can define their character's backstory by choosing from six faction associations, influencing the narrative path. Notably, customization options are inclusive, permitting body size and part selections independent of voice or pronoun choices.

Rook's journey is supported by seven companions, each with rich backstories. While players cannot directly control these companions in combat, building strong bonds enhances their effectiveness. All companions are pansexual, allowing for diverse romantic storylines. Decisions made by players impact relationships, adding depth to character interactions.

The narrative is set in the vibrant land of Thedas, a realm filled with rugged wilderness, intricate labyrinths, and bustling cities. Thedas is steeped in conflict and secret magics, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding story. The plot centers on Rook's leadership of the Veilguard, a group assembled to confront the looming threat posed by the ancient gods. The game explores themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the complexities of power.

Development of The Veilguard began in 2015, facing several delays and a significant re-envisioning from a live-service model to a single-player experience. This shift was influenced by the success of titles like Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order (2019). The game was officially announced as Dragon Age: Dreadwolf in 2022 and later retitled to The Veilguard in June 2024. It was released on October 31, 2024, for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S.

Critically, Dragon Age: The Veilguard received positive reviews for its narrative depth, character development, and innovative combat system. It was lauded as a triumphant return for BioWare, offering an epic and grandiose RPG adventure interwoven with intimate, powerful stories about its cast of endearing and quirky companions. The game was featured in several publications' year-end lists for 2024 and received nominations at The Game Awards, Golden Joystick Awards, and DICE Awards. By the end of 2024, it had reached 1.5 million players, though it fell short of Electronic Arts' expectations by nearly 50%.