Developer Bioware faced a tough challenge with Veilguard. After a decade since the last Dragon Age game, fans had high expectations, especially considering the studio’s struggles with previous releases like Mass Effect: Andromeda and Anthem. While Veilguard introduces charming characters and new locations to explore, the writing is lackluster and the combat becomes repetitive quickly.
The player assumes the role of Rook, a companion of Varric, on a quest to stop the elven god Solas from causing chaos by tearing down the Veil. However, things take a turn when two even more sinister gods are unleashed. These new villains lack the depth of Solas, making them less compelling. The game also offers side quests that shed light on Solas’ perspective.
Exploring Thedas reveals previously uncharted territories like the city of Minrathous and the Rivain peninsula. Each location is meticulously designed, offering a feast for the eyes. While exploration is encouraged, certain areas remain locked until specific quests are completed. This approach balances freedom with a sense of direction. The game also presents a variety of tasks that unlock important gear for companions.
Combat in Veilguard is entirely real-time, with companions acting autonomously most of the time. While players can still issue commands, the gameplay can feel repetitive with limited strategic depth. Boss battles provide a challenge, requiring players to focus on dodging and timing their attacks.
The game tends to over-explain and hold the player’s hand, repeating information excessively and outlining decisions’ consequences before they are made. While choices do impact the story, they become scarce as the game progresses, possibly indicating time constraints during development.
Rook serves as the protagonist, offering a break from the typical chosen hero archetype. However, Rook’s personality feels lacking, often resorting to humor and pop culture references. The central story and gameplay mechanics can feel uninspired, focusing more on repetitive tasks than engaging storytelling.
Despite its flaws, Veilguard shines in its companion characters, each with unique backgrounds and motivations. The game explores themes of identity and relationships, offering meaningful interactions with companions. Romantic options are handled subtly, avoiding clichéd flirting in favor of genuine connections.
Overall, while Veilguard is a decent RPG experience, it falls short of expectations as a Dragon Age title. The game’s strengths lie in its character development and world-building, but it struggles to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative.