EA recently showcased Dragon Age: The Veilguard during the Xbox Games Showcase, but the CG trailer left some fans apprehensive due to its irreverent tone and stylized visuals. However, during Summer Game Fest, a live gameplay demo of the first hour of the game was revealed, and it managed to impress even the skeptics.
Although the trailer gave off a Fortnite-like vibe, the actual game stays true to the Dragon Age franchise. It offers a visually stunning and immersive experience that surpasses the expectations of fans. The graphics and character animations are incredibly impressive, even surpassing the quality of the pre-rendered trailer.
The game begins in an advanced magical city, which is arguably the most visually impressive locale ever seen in a Dragon Age game. However, chaos ensues when a demon invasion disrupts the peaceful city. The game strikes a balance between vibrancy and realism, with colorful visuals that do not cross into cartoony territory.
Fans of Dragon Age will be pleased to see the return of Varric, a dwarven character known for his irreverent nature. Despite his humorous personality, the game maintains a serious tone, alleviating concerns that it would become a Marvel-esque quip fest. The story presents high stakes that characters take seriously, providing a gripping narrative that fans have been eagerly anticipating.
In addition to the captivating story, the combat mechanics in The Veilguard are also impressive. Battles occur in real time, but players can pause the action to strategically utilize special abilities. While the combat leans more towards action rather than the slower approach of Dragon Age Origins, it still manages to be enjoyable and engaging.
It’s essential not to let the unconventional CG trailer deter you if you’re a fan of the Dragon Age series. While an hour of gameplay cannot fully represent an entire game, The Veilguard demonstrated enough promise to leave a lasting impression. With its stunning visuals, compelling story, and polished combat mechanics, Dragon Age: The Veilguard is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the beloved franchise.
