Dragon Age Unveils Classes, Factions

Dragon Age: The Veilguard – A Bold New Chapter

Dragon Age: The Veilguard departs significantly from its predecessors, embracing a more action-oriented combat system. This shift has sparked debate among fans, yet the core Dragon Age experience remains, albeit adapted for this new style. Rook's background choice, a first for the series, impacts gameplay regardless of class, adding depth beyond simple dialogue variations.

The game features nine unique class specializations, each thoughtfully integrated with the narrative and setting. Rook's connection to the Veil, for instance, prevents him from becoming a Blood Mage, reflecting the lore's internal consistency. Three specializations are available per class (Warrior, Mage, Rogue), unlocked through interactions with Northern Thedas' factions.

According to a GameInformer interview with John Elper, each specialization aligns with a specific faction. The Nevarran Mourn Watch, for example, might train Rook as a Reaper (a new specialization using "night blades") or a Death Caller (necromancer), depending on class. Faction selection during character creation shapes backstory, identity, and even the character's casual attire within the Lighthouse.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard Classes and Specializations:

Warrior:

• Reaper: A life-draining dark fighter, risking death for power.
• Slayer: A two-handed weapons expert.
• Champion: A defensive sword-and-board tactician.

Mage:

• Evoker: An elemental mage wielding fire, ice, and lightning.
• Death Caller: A necromancer specializing in advanced spirit magic.
• Spellblade: A melee mage using magic-infused attacks.

Rogue:

• Duelist: A dual-bladed rogue delivering swift strikes.
• Saboteur: An expert in traps and explosives.
• Veil Hunter: A ranged fighter using lightning magic and a bow.

While the initial specialization availability based on background remains unclear, all six factions play crucial narrative roles. Chosen factions grant three unique traits affecting both combat and non-combat gameplay. Selecting the Lords of Fortune, for example, boosts damage against mercenaries, improves takedowns, and enhances reputation with the faction. While appearance is customizable via the Lighthouse's Mirror of Transformation, background, lineage, and class remain fixed.

The Veilguard aims to avoid the tedious errands criticized in previous installments. Forgoing an open world, it focuses instead on structured missions reminiscent of classic BioWare designs. The success of these design choices will be revealed soon, with the game's launch slated for Fall 2024.