It is impossible to talk about Dragon Age without considering the weight of its legacy and the unwavering loyalty of its community. Since the release of the first game, Dragon Age: Origins, in 2009 (yes, 15 years ago!), the franchise has been built on deep narratives, impactful choices, and the feeling that every decision truly shaped the world. This is the core of the series, something that long-time fans, above all, have always valued.
With the release of Dragon Age: Veilguard, it became clear that BioWare has taken a direction that goes against everything that made this franchise an RPG icon. By abandoning the classic RPG style in favor of a simplified adventure approach, removing the consequences of choices, and turning the graphics into a "cartoonish" style, the company distorted Dragon Age's legacy. Worse still, this attempt to appeal to a broader audience aligned with woke trends—prioritizing superficial validation on social media and purchased reviews—was a strategic misstep. The "woke" audience is not, and will never be, the financial or cultural foundation of franchises like Dragon Age.
It is the long-time fans, those who played Origins, Dragon Age II, and Inquisition, who ensure the relevance and commercial success of the series. They are the ones who have kept the flame of Dragon Age alive, and they are the loyal base that sustains the franchise’s name, even in the face of questionable choices. Any attempt to deviate from this audience in search of fleeting validation is not only ineffective but an insult to the legacy built over 15 years.
The message to BioWare must be clear: "Dragon Age does not need forced adaptation to fleeting trends. What it needs is a return to its essence." The fanbase is here, as loyal as ever, waiting for the franchise to once again reflect what it has always been: an epic, emotional, and unforgettable experience. The "woke" audience may be a passing trend, but the legacy of Dragon Age is eternal—and belongs to those who helped it grow.
Furthermore, it is crucial that BioWare acknowledges that part of this failure stems from internal decisions. It is time to remove from the development team those who do not understand or, worse, distort the legacy of Dragon Age. These individuals, who chose to prioritize ephemeral trends over respecting the foundations that sustain the franchise, should have no place in future projects. Conversely, BioWare must value and celebrate the contributions of those who made Dragon Age what it is—those who gave us unforgettable stories, deep characters, and a vibrant world that defined generations.
This is why including names like Geraldine Blecker in the memorial credits would be a powerful and symbolic gesture. Blecker, the voice of Shale, represented a unique facet of Dragon Age: sharp humor, emotional depth, and lasting impact. Remembering figures like her in the credits is not just an homage; it is a way to affirm that Dragon Age's legacy belongs to its creators and the fans who embraced it, not to those trying to reshape it to suit fleeting trends.
Finally, let this message be heard: we, the loyal fans of Dragon Age, are the guardians of this series' legacy. We remain steadfast, even in the face of missteps, because we believe in the potential of this franchise and what it has represented for so many years. It is time for BioWare to return to its roots, to listen to its fans, and to honor the essence of what makes Dragon Age what it is. The old guard is still here, and Dragon Age does not need an artificial audience; it needs the heart that has always stood by its side.
May the legacy remain eternal.❤️