Dragon Age: The Veilguard transcends simple narrative choices; Rook's origin story profoundly impacts gameplay regardless of class selection. This installment marks a significant departure from the franchise's roots, embracing a more action-focused combat system. While this shift has sparked debate among fans, core Dragon Age elements remain, albeit adapted for this new combat style.
The game features nine unique class specializations, each intricately woven into the narrative and setting. Rook's connection to the Veil, for instance, precludes a Blood Mage path, mirroring the limitations of Tevinter Templars' lack of southern counterparts' magic suppression. Each class (Warrior, Mage, Rogue) offers three specializations unlocked through interactions with Northern Thedas factions.
GameInformer's interview with John Elper revealed a direct link between specializations and factions. The Mourn Watch of Nevarra, for example, might train Rook as a Reaper (utilizing "night blades") or Death Caller (focused on necromancy), depending on class. Faction selection during character creation defines backstory, identity, and even non-combat attire within the Lighthouse.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard Classes and Specializations
Warrior:
- Reaper: A lethal fighter who drains life force, risking death for power.
- Slayer: A master of two-handed weaponry.
- Champion: A defensive expert wielding sword and shield.
Mage:
- Evoker: An elemental mage commanding fire, ice, and lightning.
- Death Caller: A necromancer wielding advanced spirit magic.
- Spellblade: A melee mage utilizing magic-infused attacks.
Rogue:
- Duelist: A swift, precise dual-bladed fighter.
- 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 significantly impact the narrative. Faction choice grants three unique gameplay traits, both in and out of combat. Choosing the Lords of Fortune, for example, boosts mercenary damage, improves takedowns, and increases reputation with the faction. While appearance is customizable via the Lighthouse's Mirror of Transformation, background, lineage, and class are permanent.
Unlike predecessors criticized for tedious quests, The Veilguard avoids this pitfall. Forgoing an open world, it focuses on the mission-driven structure that defined BioWare's success. The game's design choices remain to be seen, but players won't wait long; Dragon Age: The Veilguard is slated for a Fall 2024 release.
