Dragon Age: Origins - BioWare's Masterpiece of 2009

Overview

Platforms: Xbox 360, PCGenre: Third-person RPG/RTSModes: Single-player campaign only

Pros

• Stunning graphics
• Epic storyline
• Engrossing gameplay
• Top-notch voice acting
• Engaging combat

Cons

• Occasionally frustrating difficulty

Introduction

BioWare, the studio behind classics like Baldur's Gate, Mass Effect, and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, has once again delivered a gem with Dragon Age: Origins. This game is often hailed as one of the best RPGs of the decade, if not the best. With a plethora of RPGs released in the past ten years, Dragon Age: Origins stands out for its depth, complexity, and sheer enjoyment.

Character Creation and Early Gameplay

Like any great RPG, Dragon Age: Origins begins with character creation. Players can choose from various races and classes, each with unique backstories and abilities. For instance, playing as a Dalish Elf introduces you to a secluded elven society, while a Human Noble offers a different perspective and storyline.

Dalish Elf Experience

Starting as a Dalish Elf, players are immediately immersed in a rich narrative. The game introduces the Dalish Elves' lore and quickly thrusts players into decision-making scenarios, such as whether to spare or kill trespassing humans. This choice-driven gameplay is a hallmark of Dragon Age: Origins.

Human Noble Experience

Opting for a Human Noble character provides a contrasting experience. Despite a personal preference for ranged combat, playing as a melee-focused character proved enjoyable. The game allows players to have a dog companion, adding another layer of strategy and companionship to the gameplay.

Graphics and Visuals

Playing on maxed-out settings with a Radeon 5800 series GPU, the game's visuals are breathtaking. The character models, armor, and environments are meticulously detailed. The lighting and shading create a visually stunning experience, with fire effects being particularly noteworthy.

Technical Specifications

Gameplay and Mechanics

Dragon Age: Origins is known for its challenging gameplay. Even on normal difficulty, players will encounter tough battles that require strategic thinking and careful planning. The game's tactics system allows players to set specific behaviors for their characters, which is crucial for managing complex fights.

Combat and Tactics

The combat system is a blend of real-time strategy and classic third-person action. Players can switch between an overhead tactical view and a close-up adventure view, making the transition between exploration and combat seamless. The tactics menu lets players automate certain actions, such as using a healing potion when health drops below a certain threshold.

Storyline and Replayability

The game's storyline is one of its strongest aspects. The narrative revolves around the Blight, a recurring threat led by an arch-demon. Players join the Grey Wardens, a group dedicated to stopping the Blight. The story is rich, detailed, and full of memorable characters and quests.

Multiple Playthroughs

One of the game's standout features is its replayability. Each character origin offers a unique starting experience, and player choices significantly impact the storyline. This means that playing through the game multiple times can yield entirely different experiences.

Ratings

Conclusion

Dragon Age: Origins is a masterclass in RPG design. BioWare has crafted a game that excels in every aspect, from its compelling story to its challenging gameplay. For fans of the genre, this game is a must-play and sets a high bar for future RPGs.

Interesting Stats

• Dragon Age: Origins sold over 3.2 million copies worldwide by 2010 (source).
• The game features over 80 hours of gameplay, making it one of the longest single-player RPGs of its time (source).

For more information on the game's development and impact, check out BioWare's official site.