Dragon Age: Origins Review

Authors note: This may be my last post for awhile, as I'd like to refocus my efforts in finding a better job.

It finally happened. I have dreamed for this day for so long, and it finally happened. I played a game that did justice to the classic PC RPG of my youth, and that game is Dragon Age Origins. There are plenty of numerical scores out there, and more insightful reviews than perhaps I could write myself. Suffice it to say, this game is an instant classic. This is one of those rare games, that make all the hassles we put up with as PC gamers, entirely worth it. This is the game that reaffirms my passion for this hobby. It's that good, and if you're even a light RPG fan, you need to at least try this game.

The graphics and special effects, especially given the game's relatively low system requirements, are breathtaking. The details that went into the visuals are simply amazing, and really adds to the immersion. The animation is among, if not the best, I've ever seen in a game. If you study the characters closely, everything about the way they move, and their facial expressions, is so lifelike, its almost like watching a live action movie.

The cinematic cutscenes are simply stunning to watch. The siege of the Darkspawn against the Ostagar fortress is like something out of one of the Lord of the Rings films. I'm pretty jaded, and most games don't really affect me emotionally. But watching the defenders fight against an unending horde of monsters, against all odds, was riveting! The dark, grim fantasy world that makes up the game's setting is depicted perfectly. The world really lives and breathes around you, with very convincing environments and cultures.

Fighting the undead army at Redcliffe. It's like Left 4 Dead - Medieval Style

The gameplay is amazing, truly capturing the nuances and depth that you'd expect from a pen & paper RPG. To be honest, it isn't quite as deep as what you might find in Baldur's Gate 2. It's been streamlined and modernized for the tastes (and intellectual capacity) of the average gamer. But that's not necessarily a bad thing. Character development and strategic options are as robust and far reaching as you can find in an RPG on the market today. But you don't have to take a college level course in RPG mechanics to know what to do. However, a little trial and error may be necessary to find the best personal play style for you.

Don't go into the light!

The story is as ambitious and epic as the game itself. The characters are all very unique and developed. You'll learn more about them as you progress through the story, and maybe even get romantically involved with some of them. I'm still trying to get a handle on the fully realized plot that propels you through the epic adventure. But the gist of it is this: An event known as the blight as occurred in the world of Ferelden. A God has gone crazy and unleashed a horde of bloodthirsty monsters known as the Darkspawn. The world's best chance against them are the Grey Wardens, elite warriors from all races and fields of expertise, banded together to resist the horde.

Unfortunately, the Darkspawn aren't the only problem. It's an unstable world, with political factions and various peoples vying for power. It will be up to you and your group to unite Ferelden and race a mighty army to fight back the blight.

I can't say enough good things about this game. If you really want to appreciate it, you have to play it yourself. Merely describing it doesn't do this game justice. It would be no exaggeration to say it is a masterpiece. I'm probably biased, as I absolutely love these kind of games, and there are far too few of them. If anyone has wanted a new Baldur's Gate, or a better version of the more recent Neverwinter Nights series, this is it. But be warned, this game can be hard, even on normal version. This is not your average clickfest. You will be tested, you will be pushed to your limits, and the AI will punish your stupidity. This is a thinking gamer's RPG. Fast reflexes, are secondary to tactical thinking and you'll need to do a lot of it. If you're not careful this game will kick your ass, but it's so damn good you'll come back for more. I know I have!