This image has been taken from Gameinformer, and is in no way mine.
Date released: March, 8th 2011
Publisher: BioWare
Platforms: Macintosh, Windows PC, Xbox 360 and Play Station 3
Dragon Age: Origins, the start to one of the most loved, and now, one of the most hated RPGs of our time. Dragon Age: Origins embraced us into the world of Ferelden. However it later rushes you into the role of the mysterious Grey Wardens, those who protect the people of Ferelden from the Blight (A plague of hideous creatures, terrorising the peoples of Ferelden). Truly, another great story pulled off by tone of the big RPG companies of our time, BioWare.
*I have reviewed this on PC*
Dragon Age II, is set roughly about the same time of the Blight and you are called Hawke. You must escape with your family from the Blight, and already, something happens in the beginning. The course of Dragon Age II is told by a Dwarf that goes by the name of Varric (whom you meet during the course of the game). The game is split up into different years, and later in the game, you must interact with a race known as the Qunari.
Storyline
The story of Dragon Age II is somewhat of a disappointment, compared to that of Dragon Age: Origins. It tells the tale of the ancient Templars, battling off against the Mages of the city. However, throughout the course of the game, you must face off, with the help of both warring factions against a race of creatures known as the Qunari. They can be your friends or they can be your enemies, it's all your choice. (Unfortunately, that's Dragon Age II in a nutshell).
Gameplay
This game has been somewhat "down-played" for those who are new to the Dragon Age series. Combat is somewhat easier than that of the first game, with tactic slots easier to understand and use. However, the inclusion of Specialisations of each class has given a new way to play the game. For example, a Reaver trades pain for more damage. The game is mostly fillers, your character just running around the city, carrying out errands for your companions, randoms on the streets, the head of the city, and the Qunari leader, called the Arishok. Another disappointing thing is that early on in the game, maps are already re-used and enemies are not very varied. However, the GUI has been polished to look neater, and include more on screen. Also, unfortunately, speech options have been given a "Face" giving the player a clear indication of the reaction the NPC would give. This has taken away the unexpected element that Dragon Age: Origins had, which could determine if you were friends, or foes.
Romances are back, with 3 homosexual options available for players. Sex isn't shown in game, but the Romance system still works the same as in the first game. Also the Pearl is back! (The brothel) and is called the Red Rose.
Graphics & Sound
The graphics are great if your computer can handle the High or Very High graphic settings. More effort was given into the environment and the NPCs around you, giving the background more feel than that in Dragon Age: Origins. The sounds heard in Dragon Age II are dreadfully repetitive, and the soundtrack is not as epic as something heard, like in the Battle against the Blight in Ostagar.
In the end, Dragon Age II was not as great as it was hyped out to be. But to me, the story was alright, the companions were great, with a good sense of humor, and the world is generally a brighter one than Ferelden. True Dragon Age fans maybe raging inside, but could also let it go, and rejoice in wondering, if BioWare will pull off a big finale for the Dragon Age series! I give Dragon Age II a 4/5
Thanks for your time to read this! And I hope you enjoyed
*Please note that this is my first time writing a review for a game, please feel free to post any suggestions or something else I could improve on. Also, this review has been made on personal and public opinions.
-Sokyoku, out!
