My DAV Feedback: I don't actually hate the game.
Overall, Dragon Age: Veilguard is shaping up to be a solid RPG in its own right, but as part of the Dragon Age franchise, it feels somewhat disconnected from the series’ established lore and tone. Here are some specific areas where I think the game could improve or benefit from more attention: Lore and Setting Consistency While Veilguard works well as a standalone fantasy RPG or even a spin-off, it struggles to feel like a true Dragon Age title. The series has long been known for its dark, medieval fantasy world with mature political and moral themes. The shift in tone and presentation in Veilguard risks losing the depth and atmosphere that made the earlier games so beloved. Staying closer to the established lore and moral complexity would help it resonate more with long-time fans. Character Depth and Representation It’s great to see Veilguard continue the series’ tradition of inclusivity, including LGBT+ characters like the non-binary companion. However, representation works best when it’s woven naturally into complex, multifaceted characters. In previous games like Inquisition, characters’ identities were an important part of who they were, but not their only defining trait. In Veilguard, some companions feel reduced to a single characteristic or label, which limits their emotional depth and the player’s ability to connect with them. Developing these characters beyond their identities would make them feel more authentic and relatable. Player Agency and Dialogue Options One of the strengths of earlier Dragon Age games was the freedom to shape your character’s personality, morals, and playstyle through meaningful dialogue choices. In Veilguard, the dialogue options often feel limited or like variations of the same response, which restricts player agency. It would benefit the game to offer a broader range of meaningful choices, allowing players to truly roleplay and express their unique approach to situations. Bringing in more feedback from fans and the community, and investing in a strong story writing team, could help ensure that the game lives up to the series’ legacy.