“The Veilguard” - A good RPG, but not a new Dragon Age
As a die-hard fan of the Dragon Age series, with deep knowledge of the games, novels and comics, it's hard to look at The Veilguard purely objectively. The game undoubtedly has its strengths and is a solid RPG experience - but it falls short of what a longtime fan would expect from a new Dragon Age experience.
The positive aspects
The first playthrough was fun. The world is beautifully designed, with stunning landscapes and attention to detail. The battles are tactical and fun, especially the interaction with companions, which is well thought out and effective in terms of damage.
The story offers some exciting moments, surprising twists and satisfying answers to long-standing lore questions. The ending also leaves plenty of room for speculation and future adventures in Thedas, leaving you wanting more.
The problem with the companions
What is missing, however, is what once characterized the Dragon Age series: the deep, emotional connection to the companions. The interactions feel distant. While previous games such as Inquisition or Origins masterfully understood how to make the companions alive and tangible, The Veilguard feels too reduced in this respect.
Personal moments, such as disappearing into the tent or sharing special moments on the ramparts, are completely absent. The companions talk to each other or to the player, but real conversations are rare. This is very reminiscent of the limited system from Dragon Age 2 and makes interaction seem stepmotherly.
Gameplay and scope
The game is more linear and compact than its predecessor Inquisition, which on the one hand makes for a pleasant flow of gameplay, but on the other hand limits the feeling of size and freedom. The smaller map is not a problem per se - many players remember the sometimes tedious Hinterlands all too well - but it lacks the magic that once characterized Dragon Age.
Conclusion
The Veilguard is a good game. It offers beautiful landscapes, a solid story and tactical fun. Still, it will be hard for fans of the series to ignore the lack of emotional depth and typical companion interactions. It may have the potential to be a game of the year, but fans will be left with a bitter aftertaste because: It's not Dragon Age anymore.
For RPG lovers who are prepared to make sacrifices in terms of interpersonal depth, it is still a clear recommendation - perhaps not immediately, but definitely at some point. And who knows? Maybe a fifth installment will put the focus back on the heart of the series: the Companions and their connections to the player. Until then, The Veilguard remains a good game - but no Dragon Age
