BioWare, the renowned studio behind the Dragon Age series, has faced challenges in recent years. After the triumph of Dragon Age: Inquisition, titles like Mass Effect: Andromeda and Anthem deviated from the core elements that defined previous BioWare games, largely due to publisher pressures. Now, after a considerable wait, Dragon Age: The Veilguard is on the horizon. This article compiles everything we know so far about the highly anticipated next installment, from release date and trailers to gameplay details and pre-order information.
Release Date and Platforms
A cloaked figure sitting on a roof.Image used with permission by copyright holder
Dragon Age: The Veilguard will officially launch on October 31, 2024. While initial glimpses of the game were showcased during EA Play 2020, confirmation of next-gen console releases for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S came later. Given its release timeframe, a last-gen release seems unlikely.
Trailers and Story Hints
Several trailers have tantalized fans with glimpses into the world of The Veilguard. The initial teaser from The Game Awards 2018 offered cryptic dialogue: “So, you found me at last. I suspect you have questions.” This, along with the tagline “The Dread Wolf Rises,” strongly hinted at the return of Solas, the elven god Fen’Harel, a key figure from Dragon Age: Inquisition‘s Trespasser DLC.
A party member in Dragon Age: The Veilguard.Image used with permission by copyright holder
The Game Awards 2020 trailer showcased Solas alongside potential player characters, set against a vibrant fantasy world. A behind-the-scenes look at Gamescom 2020 further confirmed Solas’s central role. A letter from Solas to the Inquisitor, released on Inquisition‘s fifth anniversary, cemented his significance in the upcoming narrative.
The trailers also feature the red lyrium idol from Dragon Age II, hinting at its potential role in The Veilguard. BioWare has emphasized that the game’s narrative will cater to both long-time fans and newcomers, providing answers to long-standing questions while offering a compelling entry point for new players.
More recent trailers, including the release date trailer and a gameplay trailer featuring a blighted dragon battle, have offered further glimpses into the game’s characters, creatures, and combat. The dragon battle trailer showcased a mage character named Rook utilizing various spells and abilities against a formidable dragon, hinting at the epic scale of encounters players can expect.
Gameplay Mechanics
A character draws a bow in Dragon Age: The Veilguard.Image used with permission by copyright holder
The official gameplay reveal provided a detailed look at The Veilguard‘s mechanics. Players will control a customizable character named Rook, choosing from Rogue, Warrior, and Mage classes. The classic dialogue wheel returns, with choices potentially impacting companion relationships and the storyline.
Combat is dynamic, featuring real-time action with the option to pause and strategically select abilities using the Ability Wheel. Players will be accompanied by two companions, and team combos can be executed for devastating attacks. The combat system appears to blend elements of traditional RPGs with action-oriented gameplay, allowing for both fluid combat and tactical decision-making.
Pre-order Details
Pre-orders for Dragon Age: The Veilguard are available, offering both a standard edition and a Deluxe Edition. Pre-ordering either version grants the Blood Dragon cosmetic armor set. The Deluxe Edition includes additional cosmetic items for Rook and companions, including armor sets and weapon cosmetics.
Conclusion
Dragon Age: The Veilguard promises a return to the rich narrative and engaging gameplay that define the series. While details remain limited, the available information paints a picture of a compelling adventure with a focus on character development, dynamic combat, and a world steeped in lore. With its October 31, 2024 release date approaching, anticipation continues to build for BioWare’s next chapter in the Dragon Age saga.
