What do you guys think about this one? It's suppose to be Bioware's darkest game yet. It looks really good but I will wait until I read reviews and such.
I'll probably pick it up for the 360, since my computer isn't good enough to run this any more. From what I've seen it looks like a relatively undiluted RPG, something that's been thin on the ground for the last couple of years.
It looks good, and...long. in the good way.
i've watch some making off video, and the architectural design is really interesting, plus the background story is very consistent. the design of the location actually depends on it's history (example: you have a base middle-age architecture, and above that a layer of more orient looking batiment, wich dates from the invasion of the nearby country)
the level of dedication of the concept team makes me very confident of the universe of the game.
now for the gameplay, we'll have to wait...
By the way, you can download their character creator on their website, it's easy and gives a good idea of what you can do whith your character (you can see what skills are available to what race/class, and the caracteristic requirement for the other skills)
So i guess what's i'm saying is that it looks like a very solid Action/RPG game, and i'll definitely pick it up
this game was in development for years @_@ they started making this just before they handed off NWN2
yes but those years of development have led to a product that looks exceptionally well done. the spell interactions are something new to fantasy rpgs ((fireballs melting ice walls and setting grease slicks on fire? woah!)) and the way the charecters interact during combat give a much higher level of realism than NWN or NWN2 ever had with the 'circle, swing, duck, recoil' setup. you can actually impale your foes in DAO and they react properly, not just a generic pain animation. the orge thing being able to pick you up and fling in into next tuesday is really awsome as well.
I'm on the fence for this game. I love, loooooove Bioware. They're the reason why I own a 360 (Mass Effect), and KotOR still remains to this day as one of my all time favorite games, ever. But from what I've seen of this game, I have yet to be interested. When it was first announced, I was really excited. But now, every time I watch a gameplay movie or footage, I don't know. I think the whole rock music / marilyn manson playing in the background with blood splattering kinda turns me off. To me, it doesn't seem as atmospheric as Bioware's other games.
It's Bioware, though, and I'm sure it will get high praise. But it hasn't hooked me like all of their other games have.
Looks likes there's a turn-based flash game based on DAO: http://www.dragonagejourneys.com/
I haven't played it yet, but I'm about to give it a try.
Great fine Uncle Yuan. I have been playing this for an hour now and liking it.
I just beat it with a rogue (the online flash one that is). It's quite fun, I hope the promised Chapter 2 isn't long in coming. Gonna try it with a mage and fighter next.
I am reading from different forums how people are complaining that the graphics look dated and the fighting mechanics look to dull. I found this game play video and it squashes those complaints. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzxXtQpNkIU&feature=related
I already pre-ordered the collecters version for the PC. There is something about the sword and sorcery type games I just seem to like better on PC than consoles.
I agree Ares, but my pc is very dated. My 360 will handle this game much better.
Installing the game now
I'm curious about content. I don't want a game with nudity, lots of language and lots of sex and stuff. Easily avoided optional content I can deal with (Like Mass Effect) but I'm concerned this goes beyond that, so please give me a report on this. I would greatly appreciate it.
So far the nudity seems about on par with what Neverwinter Nights had if you took off all the character's armor. I started as a human noble and played for quite a bit. I also haven't noticed any big swear words or even made up ones like Battlestar Galactica. The only thing I can say that may bother people is violence so far. blood splatters and pools and on the boss fight I foought you perform a coup de grace on the boss. Again all this is from the human noble point. The other race/class origins may have some salty language but nidity I dont think you will see toplesssness or frontal or anything like that.
You think a major American games publisher is going to deliberately put a game out with nudity? It'd be faster for them just to lay down behind Joe Lieberman's back tire when his car is in reverse.
QuoteYou think a major American games publisher is going to deliberately put a game out with nudity?
That's what it says on their rating. Also, Mass Effect by the same people apparently has some, if limited, in the optional--and easily avoided--sex scenes.
I have yet to see anything with any actual nudity yet. The "love scene" has less flesh than the mass effect one but more positions, lol. Basically if you make any character and take off their clothes thats the amount of nudity you get in that part of it. Although with the grim moral choices you need to make I am thinking maybe there is a brothel somewhere or something. Also the mass effect scene was about at tame as alot of the vogue and other fashion magazines. The models are nude but all the bits are covered by arms or something else. Basically you get some alien side boob and maybe a butt? the whole thing lasted like 15 seconds.
Quote from: catwhowalksbyhimself on November 05, 2009, 01:09:56 AM
QuoteYou think a major American games publisher is going to deliberately put a game out with nudity?
That's what it says on their rating. Also, Mass Effect by the same people apparently has some, if limited, in the optional--and easily avoided--sex scenes.
When I say nudity I mean what movies would consider nudity - not shoulder, midriff or back, which is what was in Mass Effect.
It's still ridiculous in my mind that nudity and swearing are taboo, but lopping off somebody's head? Oh, go right ahead, that's ok!
Quote from: Talavar on November 05, 2009, 04:25:21 AM
Quote from: catwhowalksbyhimself on November 05, 2009, 01:09:56 AM
QuoteYou think a major American games publisher is going to deliberately put a game out with nudity?
That's what it says on their rating. Also, Mass Effect by the same people apparently has some, if limited, in the optional--and easily avoided--sex scenes.
When I say nudity I mean what movies would consider nudity - not shoulder, midriff or back, which is what was in Mass Effect.
Desire Demons run around with metal pastie things and low-low-low cut leggings; a little bit worse than something you'd see in the club or at the pub on Halloween. They're not terribly common though and since the Desire Demons are blue, and the lighting is moody, most people won't notice in combat. I've only run into two cutscenes where their boob-age is very prominent. Both of these scenes, to my memory, were entirely optional but it's rather easy to stumble into them.
To be quite honest I didn't notice any off-color language, but I don't notice those things either.
*stabs detourne_me with a barrel* VIOLEEEENCCEEEE.
On another note; has anyone done The Circle Mage Tower portion of the game with Shale? I'm running into a pathfinding issue in Shale's Nightmare that is basically making it impossible for me to progress any further and I'm a bit miffed.
Fun fact; even though the pathfinding is borked when you try mouse navigation, WASD works fine for Shale's Nightmare.
no I went to Redcliffe first - man that sucked - I recomend going circle before redcliff unless you want to make a real hard choice.
so for those of you who are playing it, how is the story? I've always had an interest in Bioware's games ever since KotOR and that's mainly due to how well they handle the stories of their games. From what I've seen and read of this game, at least in reviews, is that they say the story is good but then either barely describe it or make it sound like every other "dark fantasy" cliche. So I'm curious, how well does it stack up agains Bioware's past games, specifically KotOR, Jade Empire, and Mass Effect? (I've never played any of the Baldur's Gate games, and Neverwinter Nights' story was hardly even there).
Spoiler
Only played about 6 hours so far with a Drawf commoner - My sister is a whore & everyone in town seems to have there eye on her - I tried threw the dialog to kill everyone who talked bad about her but, wasn't able to because she didn't seem to have much of a problem with her job LoL - The best part about the game is the dialog & cutsceens which show your characters with very high quality personalities & shows all the details of your characters like there armor, wepaons etc.... I hate games where they don't show your characters uniforms & weapons in the cutsceens - Also the dialog really shapes the events that happen around you which is very fun - So this game suceeds in all that - My only grips are that the world textures are a bit weak - Like sometimes the trees look like cardboard cutouts or just a smudge but, with a game this large you can sometimes understand that lack of graphical impact
:blink:
I went a different origin than electro and it is much different from that. So it seems depeding on which origin you choose you get different options.
Anyone playing on a console? If so, any thoughts or reflections?
I'm playing it on the 360 and absolutely love it. I borrowed my friend's pc copy just to see how my rig would handle it. I made the right choice getting it for my 360. Sure, on the pc I can get crisper graphics at higher settings but the frame rates take a dive. On my 360, everything seems to be balanced very well. Graphics look decent and frame rates are smooth. Now if I had a really nice rig, well then it would be a different story.
Steams got it.... but i haven't beaten Batman yet... should i get it now or wait a bit.... ugh!
A new Bioware RPG? Must investigate...
How open world is this game...Oblivion style free roam or more like KOTOR?
I would say more like KotoR - to start you go from point A to B to C to D then from D you can sort of choose which order you do things in and do optional things but there are 4 things you have to do to progress then its back to the path ahead of you.
Is this like a medieval / sword n sorcery version of Mass Effect?
no its alot closer to Balder's Gate, NVN and KotOR than Mass Effect
Yes! Very great game.
I need help, Im addicted.... :(
Sigh - it's in my Amazon in-box. Will be in my mail box soon.
I have already beaten it once as a Human noble. I tell you one thing it was hard as hell to be the good guy which was kind of cool.
how is it in comparison to Bioware's other recent RPGs KotOR, Jade Empire, and Mass Effect? Is the story just as good?
never played Jade Empite and KotOR has been so long its kind of a haze. I believe it has an engaging story but I would liken it more to Balder's Gate and Neverwinter Nights more than Mass Effect. Mass Effect has a feel all unto itself. Like Mass Effect your actions can shape what happens during the game as far as your party and others but I think this game lets those descisions play out moreso in certain areas. Also unlike the KotOR or Mass Effect there isnt a Light/Dark or Paragon/Renegade meter.
Just a note in regards to the "adult content;" the desire demons are basically topless, but the sex scenes are tamer than Mass Effect - apparently in Medieval fantasy worlds, people have sex with their underwear on.
Quote from: Ares_God_of_War on November 15, 2009, 07:33:47 AM
Also unlike the KotOR or Mass Effect there isnt a Light/Dark or Paragon/Renegade meter.
How do the friend relationship meters affect the game? I haven't played enough to kow, but I think Morrigan hates me.
I just started and right after joining my party i managed to get aproval from both ali and morrigan... and then i used a couple of gifts with her... mmm seems i will have to spend lots of money in gifts to keep everybody somewhat happy around me...
the game is simply awesome
Quote from: detourne_me on November 17, 2009, 08:19:23 AM
Quote from: Ares_God_of_War on November 15, 2009, 07:33:47 AM
Also unlike the KotOR or Mass Effect there isnt a Light/Dark or Paragon/Renegade meter.
How do the friend relationship meters affect the game? I haven't played enough to kow, but I think Morrigan hates me.
Relationship meters reflect your ability to initiate romances with certain characters, as well as what decision a character will make (generally to stay or leave) at key points in the game.
Quote from: Talavar on November 17, 2009, 04:42:29 PM
Quote from: detourne_me on November 17, 2009, 08:19:23 AM
Quote from: Ares_God_of_War on November 15, 2009, 07:33:47 AM
Also unlike the KotOR or Mass Effect there isnt a Light/Dark or Paragon/Renegade meter.
How do the friend relationship meters affect the game? I haven't played enough to kow, but I think Morrigan hates me.
Relationship meters reflect your ability to initiate romances with certain characters, as well as what decision a character will make (generally to stay or leave) at key points in the game.
Yes and no to this. There are certain events that you do that will cause people to leave or attack you even if they practically love you. Also some of these events will happen even if you decided to leave these people at camp knowing their reactions. But really the main goals for rep is either romance or the bonus the NPC will gain from high relationship values. Also if you are curious what a specific character is to you open up your character page in party or in camp and cycle through the characters and under their paper doll is a meter by their xp meter and it will say the rating and their general feeling. Its a good way to tell if you are in the friend zone with a romance PC when you have a high value with them.
Quote from: The_Baroness on November 17, 2009, 09:52:05 AM
I just started and right after joining my party i managed to get aproval from both ali and morrigan... and then i used a couple of gifts with her... mmm seems i will have to spend lots of money in gifts to keep everybody somewhat happy around me...
the game is simply awesome
If you want to romance Leilana watch giving her gifts. There is a bug that if she rises too high too fast you may miss some important romance convos. Also Leilana and Zevran are the only homosexual romance options. Morgiana and Alistair will not romance PCs of the same sex.
Getting really tired of finding chests I cant open. I know Im a mage and not a theif, but still...
uh? i just started my first game, and i picked mage too. should i be worried taht i'll miss some loot too? should i invest points in lock picking?
I dont find anything good in chests, basically vendor trash weapons. if you dont want to be a rogue take leilana or zevran
just wanted to post a pic of my two tanks, Sten and Toben (me, the dwarf)
I love the DLC armor sets :)
Spoiler
(http://api.photoshop.com/home_14c35637abd04016b711c56f68d55651/adobe-px-thumbnails/87840db050034952b0a1f520896ec772/fullsize.jpg)
I loved KOTOR . One of my four favorites ever ( Freedom Force and FFVTTR, Morrowind, Oblivion and KOTOR) but found Jade empire just OK. I didn't like the combat as much as KOTOR's and the party management and decreased NPC party interaction and control really bugged me. I also found the enemies were less interesting and so seemed more repetitive. If I loved KOTOR but barely finished Jade Empire once, How do you think I'll like this one?
this game is much more like KOTOR than Jade Empire. It's more like KOTOR than Mass Effect even.
To me, it's like Freedom Force meets KOTOR because you can play it like a top-down strategy game.
I just got my copy from Amazon, and I won't really get a chance to play it for a while. I am on call today, then I will pick up the Boy, who will be staying for over a week.
Curses!
This is one of those games that feels like a reverse of the current trend. A PC game ported to console. Ive been playing on my 360, and while they did a really good job with the interface, its complicated enough that I can see where the PC version might make navigating the interface and camera more intuitive (especially during heavy combat).
Early on, the generic fantasy elements were doing nothing for me. I realize that all these fantasy stories pull from the same basic Tolkien, D&D kind of pool -- and I can enjoy cliche' if you put your own spin on it, but there was just so little that felt original to me that i was a bit disinterested early on. As its gone on, Ive gotten a lot more into it, and the sheer amount of story options and missions is nice, but as a whole i think I liked both Mass Effect and Oblivion better. Mass Effect pulled me into the world and story a lot more, and Oblivion's free form openness overcame a lot of its story/gameplay flaws (for me anyway). Dragon Age is fun, and well worth the money if you like the Fantasy stuff, but it just feels slightly less engrossing than other games to me.
Best Buy Canada dropped the XBOX 360 DA:O price to $39 for this week. I'm tempted to pick it up but I've bought way too many games in the last month and a half.
Quote from: Tortuga on November 28, 2009, 12:15:44 AM
Best Buy Canada dropped the XBOX 360 DA:O price to $39 for this week.
Interesting....
I talked about this game briefly with colleagues yesterday and well....
Spoiler
can you really...bag the wife?
Quote from: GogglesPizanno on November 27, 2009, 09:58:42 PM
This is one of those games that feels like a reverse of the current trend. A PC game ported to console. Ive been playing on my 360, and while they did a really good job with the interface, its complicated enough that I can see where the PC version might make navigating the interface and camera more intuitive (especially during heavy combat).
Early on, the generic fantasy elements were doing nothing for me. I realize that all these fantasy stories pull from the same basic Tolkien, D&D kind of pool -- and I can enjoy cliche' if you put your own spin on it, but there was just so little that felt original to me that i was a bit disinterested early on. As its gone on, Ive gotten a lot more into it, and the sheer amount of story options and missions is nice, but as a whole i think I liked both Mass Effect and Oblivion better. Mass Effect pulled me into the world and story a lot more, and Oblivion's free form openness overcame a lot of its story/gameplay flaws (for me anyway). Dragon Age is fun, and well worth the money if you like the Fantasy stuff, but it just feels slightly less engrossing than other games to me.
I don't know, I think they put a pretty good spin by 'dirtying up' the traditional fantasy cliches in my opinion - I mean, the elves & dwarves in this are fairly miserable actually, just like humans ;)
I liked the setting of Mass Effect better, but the gameplay & game mechanics worse.
Quote from: thalaw2 on November 28, 2009, 01:16:26 AM
I talked about this game briefly with colleagues yesterday and well....Spoiler
can you really...bag the wife?
If by wife you mean queen, then yes ...
Spoiler
providing you play as a male human noble.
Just needing some clarification here...is there any multiplayer or co-op in DA:O?
Quote from: Tortuga on November 28, 2009, 11:22:29 PM
Just needing some clarification here...is there any multiplayer or co-op in DA:O?
Nope
OK, i've finished the story for the first of many, many times but the the time being i have interest in something else: mods.
i've played a little with Dragon Age tool set and i'm amazed by it's potential (since it's essentially what the level/game designer used you can do almost anything you want, if you know a little programing) and so i wonder: does any of you have already found a "must-have" mod? or heard of one in developpment? there's rumor that some part of the NeverWinterNight modding community are working on adapting there work for Dragon Age, any idea if there's a website/forum where i could follow there work?
anyway, if i find one i'll let you know
Well, just like Fallout 3 or Oblivion, there is http://www.dragonagenexus.com/ too!
I'm still hesitant on mods for these games, I've got Steam versions of all 3, but haven't ventured into modding them yet. there are some issues with compatability on the mods (i tried some basic Fallout mods, but they couldn't work with the steam version)
Oh, this just sucks. My 360 copy is cracked and will not play now. No idea how it got cracked, never dropped it. This is my favorite game though and I have to replace it. I hope I can find some used copies at GameStop.
So on the Dragonage forums people have been crying about the download content and such due to length and etc. What are your opinions of it so far? I think the one you get free, Stone Prisoner, is a little bit hard to swallow for the money you would have to pay for it if you get it used unless there are more things I am missing but I understand that is also due to voice acting and the new character, etc. The Warden's Keep one I paid for and I am happy with what I got and price. I am curious on the new $5 one.
If I'd had to pay for the Stone Prisoner I'd be a little cheesed off - despite it including 2 new areas, and a new companion, its point cost is pretty steep - but I didn't, so I don't care. People buying the game used can go kick stones.
Warden's Keep was a more reasonable price, and I didn't feel ripped off by the amount of added gameplay. I'll probably get the new one as well, since it's only going to be 5 bucks, but I'll have to wait until after I've played it to decide if its worth the money.
Just picked DA:O for the Xbox today. The $40 price tag made me cave.
Quote from: Tortuga on December 29, 2009, 01:45:27 AM
Just picked DA:O for the Xbox today. The $40 price tag made me cave.
I did that for the PC. Just finished the Dwarven city part a few days ago, would have been sooner, but I had just gotten a new 360 and find myself currently trying to rebuild all I lost.
Out of all the saves I lost, I regret Too Human the most.
Speaking of Too Human, when is a sequel coming out? Loved that game.
Quote from: captmorgan72 on December 30, 2009, 12:20:59 AM
Speaking of Too Human, when is a sequel coming out? Loved that game.
Too Human was made in my home town. The game didn't do as well as hoped and I never heard if they been given the go ahead for a sequel.
Also I got the 360 version of Dragon Age for Christmas. Thanks to Tortuga for posting about the Best Buy sale a while back, as it prompted me to strongly hint what I wanted for Christmas. Really enjoying the game, but I'm not too surprised as Baldur's Gate 2, KOTOR, and Mass Effect are counted among my all time favorite games. Wasn't huge on Neverwinter Nights though.
Playing through as a man human noble warrior right now. I've only ever played a BioWare game through once, but there's a good chance I'll play Dragon through again because I want to see the different origins.
Was a little worried I made a mistake getting the 360 version instead of the PC version, but so far I'm enjoying it enough and all the controls seem pretty good so I think I'll be ok.
Quote from: Podmark on December 30, 2009, 02:37:18 AM
Playing through as a man human noble warrior right now. I've only ever played a BioWare game through once, but there's a good chance I'll play Dragon through again because I want to see the different origins.
I've made three different characters just to see the origin stories. I think I've settled on a human noble warrior for now too.
finished as female city elf rogue and as female human noble warrior (shield)... and the difference in origins really affect your perception of the world...
currently playing as a male dwarf noble... and... thats a really great origin...
Quote from: detourne_me on November 30, 2009, 07:27:33 AM
Well, just like Fallout 3 or Oblivion, there is http://www.dragonagenexus.com/ too!
I'm still hesitant on mods for these games, I've got Steam versions of all 3, but haven't ventured into modding them yet. there are some issues with compatability on the mods (i tried some basic Fallout mods, but they couldn't work with the steam version)
You HAVE to play fallout 3 with mods, it really improves the game. I recommend:
FWE: major balance overhaul that compiles multiple mods (including one of mine) making the game ingo a deep and highly modifiable first person shooter. Seriosly the game turns into a great action game with it.
FOOK2: like 100+ weapons and armor.
My radio mods: Look for Radio Blues and Invasion Radio, they rock!
My copy is a STEAM copy and you can totaly play the game with mods without even loading GFW (you need it closed for the good mods) and I also own all the DLC, they work great too if you move 'em to another folder.
As far as Dragon Age:
Have not picked up any DLC, most if it looks a bit unbalancing but I might pick up some adventures.
Loving the game, I'm playing with a dual wielding warrior. I wanted him to use dual axes but not really an option with the good swords and daggers. As for my "path" he is a heroic thug... in other words he kills and intimidates most "non good" characters and takes rewards but he will do some freebie rescues here and there. My team are the Bard, the Shapeshifter and the Qunari dude, although sometimes I'll use the other characters.
New Expansion is coming in March and the new DLC has been delayed. New XP sounds interesting. You can import your character or start a new Warden from Orlais.
Any word on the when that new DLC has been delayed to?
The new expansion is priced at $40 for ~15 hours of gameplay.
That seems way above my price point for purchasing it. especially after I got 20+ hours from each of the GTA addons for $20.
no word on Return to Ostagar yet and that thread derailed and was closed.
I am kind of sad that only one companion from Origins is returning for Awakenings. It will probably be someone I dislike but I am hoping for Morigan or Leilana. I wish it was both.
defintiely hoping for Leliana. LOL!
here is an IGN interview. It isnt too spoilery but just in case be warned. The main things I got were that as said by the person interviewed "This will be our biggest expansion" so the 15 hours of gameplay may be a rumor. You can use a tome to respec your character. Alot of your companions make cameos and if you import your choises made during Origins including and especially how you handled the Archdemon will be touched upon. Also it said that if you read David Gaiders 2nd book that you will get some background info on the big bad in this game but it wont spoil the game. Also the transfer from DA:O to DA:A can be done at any time but it is a one way transfer. Also thinking about it I bet the npc is the damn dog, lol.
http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/105/1058713p1.html
Sweet! thrall-abilities is awesome!
I guess I should mention that's what I named the dog but I'm sure the censor is going to butcher it anyway.
Higher level cap I hope means more spells otherwise what's the point? Either way I love this game so much that I'll gladly pay $40 for a good sized expansion pack.
yes, more spells and skills are in this game. That is also the reason for the respec. It also sounds like there are more specializations you can learn. Also they said that they think the level will end up at mid to high 30s by the end so if you are level capped thats potentially another 15 levels worth of play.
Quote from: Podmark on December 30, 2009, 02:37:18 AM
Quote from: captmorgan72 on December 30, 2009, 12:20:59 AM
Speaking of Too Human, when is a sequel coming out? Loved that game.
Too Human was made in my home town. The game didn't do as well as hoped and I never heard if they been given the go ahead for a sequel.
Also I got the 360 version of Dragon Age for Christmas. Thanks to Tortuga for posting about the Best Buy sale a while back, as it prompted me to strongly hint what I wanted for Christmas. Really enjoying the game, but I'm not too surprised as Baldur's Gate 2, KOTOR, and Mass Effect are counted among my all time favorite games. Wasn't huge on Neverwinter Nights though.
Playing through as a man human noble warrior right now. I've only ever played a BioWare game through once, but there's a good chance I'll play Dragon through again because I want to see the different origins.
Was a little worried I made a mistake getting the 360 version instead of the PC version, but so far I'm enjoying it enough and all the controls seem pretty good so I think I'll be ok.
I believe Too Human 2 got the greenlight, though all we've heard is the name. Too Human: Rise of the Giants. There's a poster as well.
I think I'm getting close to the end with my Human Noble Warrior, next I may go Human Mage.
Quote from: NeoDarke on January 07, 2010, 04:13:44 AM
I believe Too Human 2 got the greenlight, though all we've heard is the name. Too Human: Rise of the Giants. There's a poster as well.
Cool, I'm surprised I never heard that.
Expansion interests me greatly, but if it is only 15 hours that's disappointing.
Where is the 15 hours coming from, by the way? Nothing even semi-official I've read about the expansion has quoted a number - it seems to have been plucked from the ether.
People are just assuming that and are running with it. I think basically someone stated that they thought the expansions was like a cetain % of the original game and from there it somehow became that it was 15 hours. All I know is that they said this would be the largest XP and that the goal is to have about a 2 year total XP and DLC lifetime on DA:O
I have no problem with 15 hours. When games are 50+ hours I tend to never finish them. DA seems to have a ton of replayability, so if that means 15 hours to do the story once then that means I'd actually get around to doing a second playthrough.
Yeah the 15 hour thing I read may just be speculation...
But regardless, at this point unless the cost comes down, or there emerges some amazing detail about the expansions that I just have to have, I'll probably just wait for the inevitable GOTY edition that includes a bunch of the expansions (ala Fallout) that I can get on physical media (Im still a bit of a luddite when it comes to downloadable content -- especially with my crappy internet connection).
While I liked Dragon Age, I didn't completely go head over heels in love the way others have. I'm way more excited about giving Bioware my money for Mass Effect 2.
I have a question about this game, particularly the system requirements. I don't have an PS3 or a 360, which leaves the PC as the only possibility, though I'm not sure if it would work on my specs. I have an XP and a Vista Laptop. If I put the game at the very lowest of it's capabilities, would I be able to run it, and on which computers? I'd be fine with it not working perfectly, but it would need to at least run decently.
well, i hope it helps:
QuoteWindows XP Minimum Specifications
* OS: Windows XP with SP3
* CPU: Intel Core 2 (or equivalent) running at 1.4Ghz or greater
* AMD X2 (or equivalent) running at 1.8Ghz or greater
* RAM: 1GB or more
* Video: ATI Radeon X850 128MB or greater
* NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT 128MB or greater
* DVD ROM (Physical copy)
* 20GB HD space
Windows Vista Minimum Specifications
* OS: Windows Vista with SP1
* CPU: Intel Core 2 (or equivalent) running at 1.6Ghz or greater
* AMD X2 (or equivalent) running at 2.2GHZ or greater
* RAM: 1.5GB or more
* Video: ATI Radeon X1550 256MB or greater
* NVIDIA GeForce 7600 GT 256MB or greater
* DVD ROM (Physical copy)
* 20GB HD space
Recommended Specifications
* CPU: Intel Core 2 Quad 2.4Ghz Processor or equivalent
* RAM: 4 GB (Vista) or 2GB (XP)
* Video: ATI 3850 512 MB or greater
* NVIDIA 8800GTS 512 MB or greater
* DVD ROM (Physical copy)
* 20GB HD space [quote/]
Ok, there was a battle in which I got whalloped over and over again until I turned down the difficulty. So here's my question...how do I assign attacks/moves/etc for my party to carry out during a fight? (beyond the "tactics" choices, etc.)
you can only issue 1 command per character. so in that respect the game is more akin to Freedom Force than KOTOR.
Seriously though, the tactics are great. once you get a hang of setting up the AI you never really need to micromanage a fight.
Tactics work for me like 90% of the time. I really only have to micromanage the healer every once in a while
I'm the other way around, I enjoyed setting up tactics at first but fights are hard enough that I find myself micromanaging a lot, but that is because I use a few area attacks and stuff. I dunno, I get more out of my fights that way too.
Well, beat the game with my Human Noble Warrior. Next up, Human Mage.
Finished last night as Human Warrior (focused on Shield and Two-handed weapons). I was the goody-two-shoes all the way through.
Today, I started an Elf Mage. Behaviour-wise I'm doing everything I can to be selfish and quite a prick. It's not always easy, but it's funny to hear the reactions from the NPCs when you say something tremendously rude.
If I'm still up for it, my third playthrough will be a noble dwarf rogue.
I am having some issues setting up additional tactics. Any suggestions?
Trying to set up my main character (human noble rogue) as a striker. Leliana as a range (and that other rogue, the elf assassin, as a secondary range) then one of two characters as my tank. (though there are four characters in all who seem tailor made for that role) and then my fourth is my mage. I am about 3/4 the way through the game and what I am doing seems to be fine so far with the exception of a few fights.
Spoiler
anyone know a good strategy on how to beat the witch dragoness that is Morganna's mother. I think her name is Flemming or Flemmish
have a second game where my main character is going to be a mage and then my ranged attack girl, my tank, and not sure what else.
suggestions for tactics?
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on February 01, 2010, 11:21:28 PM
Spoiler
anyone know a good strategy on how to beat the witch dragoness that is Morganna's mother. I think her name is Flemming or Flemmish
I couldn't have won that fight without Shale.
I did it through just luck and sheer brute force. I managed to find a timing sweet spot, where I could attack and run while it was focused on my other characters (mostly power house characters that could take a beating).
Spoiler
I had a warrior and alistair and I used sheild slam or whatever it was each time the dragon flemeth grabbed a character and that worked well for me
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on February 01, 2010, 11:21:28 PM
I am having some issues setting up additional tactics. Any suggestions?
Trying to set up my main character (human noble rogue) as a striker. Leliana as a range (and that other rogue, the elf assassin, as a secondary range) then one of two characters as my tank. (though there are four characters in all who seem tailor made for that role) and then my fourth is my mage. I am about 3/4 the way through the game and what I am doing seems to be fine so far with the exception of a few fights.
Spoiler
anyone know a good strategy on how to beat the witch dragoness that is Morganna's mother. I think her name is Flemming or Flemmish
have a second game where my main character is going to be a mage and then my ranged attack girl, my tank, and not sure what else.
suggestions for tactics?
My guy was an Arcane Warrior, and I really wasn't able to have everyone else stay alive. With AW's final power (where they turn all ghostly) and potions, it's pretty much just a matter of time until the big dragons go down.
hmph!
not sure really what kind of strategy to use then. and well, i am not adept at setting up the tactic stuff. :P
anyone want to add me on xbox live by the way?
I chickened out against THAT dragon but I beat the other one out of sheer luck... it got stuck on a crack in the ground and my people just shot at it without any fear that it would run up and grab 'em.
I finished all 4 main quests and I guess I'm going into the endgame soon but I've gotten sidetracked by Champions Online. Still I think it is time I get back into Dragon Age and finish it.
Honestly I haven't really cracked the whole strategy part of the game yet lol
Quote from: lugaru on February 02, 2010, 04:35:34 AM
I chickened out against THAT dragon but I beat the other one out of sheer luck... it got stuck on a crack in the ground and my people just shot at it without any fear that it would run up and grab 'em.
I finished all 4 main quests and I guess I'm going into the endgame soon but I've gotten sidetracked by Champions Online. Still I think it is time I get back into Dragon Age and finish it.
i am in a similar boat. toward the last fourth of the game and sidetracked.
could use more friends who i could co-op with if i got back on xbox live gold for a month.
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on February 02, 2010, 05:50:25 AM
could use more friends who i could co-op with if i got back on xbox live gold for a month.
Can't co-op in Dragon Age, sadly. It's too bad -- the combat exploration part would be great for co-op but the story would get a little fragmented I guess.
Quote from: Tortuga on February 02, 2010, 11:23:32 PM
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on February 02, 2010, 05:50:25 AM
could use more friends who i could co-op with if i got back on xbox live gold for a month.
Can't co-op in Dragon Age, sadly. It's too bad -- the combat exploration part would be great for co-op but the story would get a little fragmented I guess.
true but people can still feel free to add me who are posting on this thread. :P
Dragon Strategy:
Spoiler
With Flemeth, stay at range as much as possible, except for a character to tank the dragon. She won't move around, so only the tank is vulnerable to being picked up and savaged. Put your characters in as much fire resistance gear as possible (the dragonskin and dragonbone armours help a lot here). Using Wynn is great, because she can heal/resurrect the tank as needed. For spells, don't bother with fire. Lightning and cold seem to work well for elemental damage. I can't remember if Mana Clash, the mage's win button, works on dragons.
Well I'm moving forward again, the 4 main quests are done and finished the "landsmeet" one. Next up: the final battle.
I was halfway through my second playthrough (as an elf mage) when I got distracted by Mass Effect. After a year of owning the game, I'm finally giving it the attention it deserves, so that eventually, I can enjoy ME2.
Spoiler
I'm wondering...on this playthrough I'm completing the major missions in an evil manner...or at least opposite of my first playthough. So, I was planning on siding with the Mages and the Werewolves. Will that mean I won't have the Templars and Elves at the final battle?
Quote from: Tortuga on February 09, 2010, 05:55:46 AM
I was halfway through my second playthrough (as an elf mage) when I got distracted by Mass Effect. After a year of owning the game, I'm finally giving it the attention it deserves, so that eventually, I can enjoy ME2.
Spoiler
I'm wondering...on this playthrough I'm completing the major missions in an evil manner...or at least opposite of my first playthough. So, I was planning on siding with the Mages and the Werewolves. Will that mean I won't have the Templars and Elves at the final battle?
I'm still on the first playthrough. Well, sorta. I started two other playthroughs that I am keeping and a few other that I have not kept. Just so I could get the achievements for all the origin stories. I'm taking a break from it though as I have loaned it to a friend.
Spoiler
Yes and No. You either get the mages or the templars. However, I have heard (though yet to see) that you can get the Elves and The Werewolves in the final battle if you play your cards right. I sided with the elves and the mages on the playthrough I am doing. I have two other games started. One of them, I plan on siding with the Templars but for the most part, I don't care for the Templars all that much. Want to try what I have heard about the way to get the Werewolves and The Elves though on my next playthrough. I think you can get the Golems and The Dwarves both too.
I need to get in on this whole Mass Effect thing. I had not heard of the game till the hype for part 2 started.
Anyone played 'Return to Ostagar' yet?
Has anybody else gotten the "Marta" and Pa Kent random encounter? I LOL'd. Still waiting to see what I can do with my chunk of meteoric iron . . .
Quote from: Uncle Yuan on February 22, 2010, 12:58:35 PM
Has anybody else gotten the "Marta" and Pa Kent random encounter? I LOL'd. Still waiting to see what I can do with my chunk of meteoric iron . . .
No, and I've run back and forth trying to get it.
The meteor is for
Spoiler
getting the best sword in the game by taking it to the Warden's Keep.
That was my plan, just haven't gotten around to it yet.
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on February 23, 2010, 12:36:33 AM
Quote from: Talavar on February 09, 2010, 02:43:35 PM
Anyone played 'Return to Ostagar' yet?
Yep, I have.
Is it any good? After the patch I ran into the hook and it looked cool but so far the DLC has not felt absolutely essential to me except for maybe the first (stone prisoner) but most peoples games came with it.
Quote from: lugaru on February 23, 2010, 04:51:25 AM
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on February 23, 2010, 12:36:33 AM
Quote from: Talavar on February 09, 2010, 02:43:35 PM
Anyone played 'Return to Ostagar' yet?
Yep, I have.
Is it any good? After the patch I ran into the hook and it looked cool but so far the DLC has not felt absolutely essential to me except for maybe the first (stone prisoner) but most peoples games came with it.
Stone Prisoner and Warden's Keep are both great to have.
Warden's Keep has a storage chest that is great for upper level items that you get early in the game, items that you have which you don't have the characters to apply them to yet (like gifts for example) and generally just to store the surplus of items you will inevitable have that you might be tempted to sell but might regret later.
Plus, you get
Spoiler
One of the best swords in the game. Thanks to the little meteorite cut scene and an additional specialization class option though it really isn't all that useful given the limited amount of skill points to use when you level up, in my opinion.
Return to Ostegar has a good and armor set. It's something more for the middle of the game than later in the game unless you are playing as a fighter. I guess it could be useful if you do not have the Red Dragon armor DLC (which I do). There is also a really interesting plot point of the game involving the former king. As I understand it, it varies based on who you have in your party. I have heard (not not seen it confirmed) that the forthcoming expansion might utilize information based on a decision you make in it. It's a nice little add-on for fighter classes more than anything unless you were not lucky enough to get the Red Dragon Armor. It's rather short, too.
The Red Dragon Armor DLC is really great but you will not be able to use it till the second half of the game more than likely because of the strength rating.
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on February 23, 2010, 12:13:41 PM
The Red Dragon Armor DLC is really great but you will not be able to use it till the second half of the game more than likely because of the strength rating.
Or you can "cheat", my second playthrough is with a mage, I gave her the Arcane Warrior specialization which allows her to subsitute Strength for Magic, and with her 30+ magic (to get potent spells early on) she easily equiped it. Her weapon is still really bland though, but I'm grateful for that in a way, it makes me still feel like I'm not uber equipping her right from the start.
Quote from: lugaru on February 23, 2010, 12:59:54 PM
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on February 23, 2010, 12:13:41 PM
The Red Dragon Armor DLC is really great but you will not be able to use it till the second half of the game more than likely because of the strength rating.
Or you can "cheat", my second playthrough is with a mage, I gave her the Arcane Warrior specialization which allows her to subsitute Strength for Magic, and with her 30+ magic (to get potent spells early on) she easily equiped it. Her weapon is still really bland though, but I'm grateful for that in a way, it makes me still feel like I'm not uber equipping her right from the start.
thanks for that info.
Quote from: lugaru on February 23, 2010, 12:59:54 PM
Or you can "cheat", my second playthrough is with a mage, I gave her the Arcane Warrior specialization...
I can't remember -- is that power passive, sustained or activated?
Quote from: Tortuga on February 23, 2010, 11:14:51 PM
Quote from: lugaru on February 23, 2010, 12:59:54 PM
Or you can "cheat", my second playthrough is with a mage, I gave her the Arcane Warrior specialization...
I can't remember -- is that power passive, sustained or activated?
The strength-to-magic is passive. Arcane Warrior is insanely powerful and basically makes your character an equal or even better tank than most warrior types. My main character was an Arcane Warrior (after I realized how terrible shapeshifting was and restarted) and just mostly turned on all sustained spells like flame weapons, stone armor, and of course the AW shield spell and the final one that turns you into a fade spirit. At the end of the game, all my other characters were pretty much terrible and died quickly but I was able to defeat all three dragons with just him (it took a while, but thats kinda how it goes with them).
I have to agree... my first playthrough was as a Warrior and I just stumbled uppon that specialization. Then I started a "mean" mage with the intention of making her a Blood Mage but I figured that would take too long (dont have it unlocked) so I chose this as her first specialization and dang, she is potent. I mix it with mostly "death" magic which allows me to have an aura that regens mana (or health if I use the other one) from fallen foes. That stuff, TK weapons with a huge sword and occasionally blowing up fools or trapping them in that spirit prison spell. She is pretty brutal, and that is without an enchanted weapon (she has a pretty standard two handed sword, I'm still early on).
Anybody have any experience with Rogue specialties? I could have access to Ranger and Assassin now, but neither are grabbing me. (Plus I'm playing a female and am working on Alistair. I'm afraid going Assassin would damage that.) I'm leaning duelist, if I can figure out where to find it. From what I've seen it will work well with my dual weapons.
Quote from: Uncle Yuan on February 24, 2010, 11:55:50 AM
Anybody have any experience with Rogue specialties? I could have access to Ranger and Assassin now, but neither are grabbing me. (Plus I'm playing a female and am working on Alistair. I'm afraid going Assassin would damage that.) I'm leaning duelist, if I can figure out where to find it. From what I've seen it will work well with my dual weapons.
I went with Duelist and Assassin for my main (human noble) rogue.
Duelist is a fairly easy specialization to find. I prefer it to to any of the other specializations actually. It's great for rogues using two weapons.
Spoiler
It's in Denerim. There is a lady at The Pearl who will engage you in a card game. If your cunning is high enough, you will catch her cheating. Providing you catch her, she will teach you the specialization Duelist.
Ranger is fairly useless as far as I can tell.
The bard is fine for Leliana, it's more than enough for the whole party.
Assassin was great for the stat bonuses more than anything. It also has abilities that are usable in combat and worth using. The passive stuff are even more worth it.
Something I have noticed is that the auto-level up tends to favor the the first specialization over the second if it levels any of them at all.
Spoiler
Fun fact. If you come across a vendor with a specialization book, just save, buy the book, then reload. It should unlock the specialization and you get your money back.
I made Leliana into a Bard/Ranger and it was useful for her to keep a bear around, at least to soak up damage and deal a little of it. Honestly the specializations in the game are a little wonky, they could use some work.
And..
Spoiler
Just beat Flemeth fair and square, with my second character, at level 11. With the patch you get a lot more potions instead of random crap so I burnt a lot of them during that fight. Shale dealing damage in the front, too big and stony to be eaten. Zevran doing a little bit of bow damage each turn and pointing out weaknesses. Healer mage (I forget her name) healing everyone and casting a spell that reduces elemental damage and my main mage (my character) soaking up a lot of the damage while pouring magical attacks on Flemmy. It took a while and I invested a little too much into it but hey, that is something to be proud of.
Hey, does anybody have any idea how the expansion will work (on the 360). Will I still need my DA:O disc or will it run off of the DA: Awakenings disc. I'm wondering if I can sell/trade DA:O at this point and make $40 back.
I'm going to venture that at best this will make it unable to play DA: O content but they may have something that requires the original disc for some parts.
I know the Expansion has an import save ability and that DLC won't work in Awakenings - save possibly items. Don't know if you'll need your DA:O disc, but I'd bet on yes.
I beat Dragon Age Origins tonight!
Spoiler
I was playing a male human noble and choose Anora as Queen with me as her husband (although for some reason the epilogue said she never remarried and didn't really mention me at all). I took Morrigan's deal and survived the final battle.
After I won I started a new game as a female human mage. Not sure if I'll play through the whole game or if I'll just play through the origin. Might buy the Awakening expansion this month if it reviews well. Otherwise I'll wait for a price drop or maybe second hand.
Awakenings is out, any one get it yet?
I'm waiting at least until next month before I buy any games. Lot on my plate and not much money. I'm keeping an eye out for a good mass effect 1 + 2 deal.
ME1 should be pretty cheap, especially if you find it second hand (which shouldn't be hard). ME2 won't be cheap for quite sometime.
Before I pick up Awakenings I've got to finish GTA: Episodes from Liberty City (4-5 missions to go) and I want to finish my second runthrough of DA:O as my evil mage. At some point I should get back in ME2 as well. I'm glad Red Dead Redemption was delayed...I'm finding it hard to keep up with all these awesome games!!
i'm waiting till i beat dragon age origin.
a friend of mine borrowed my copy so that may be a while.
Quote from: Podmark on March 18, 2010, 04:03:23 AM
Awakenings is out, any one get it yet?
I got it about a week back, haven't really gotten to get to much into it mainly becuase I decided to start a new character to rush through Origins with again. Seems it's a better idea to have a character that's been through Origins before so you can import it in and have better equipment ready. Also it appears that more happens if you have a former Origins character ready...not sure though becasue I just started it brand new as an Orlesian Warden.
I also am playing through again since I dont seem to have the save I wanted to import anymore
Quote from: Deaths Jester on March 19, 2010, 03:31:39 PM
Quote from: Podmark on March 18, 2010, 04:03:23 AM
Awakenings is out, any one get it yet?
I got it about a week back, haven't really gotten to get to much into it mainly becuase I decided to start a new character to rush through Origins with again. Seems it's a better idea to have a character that's been through Origins before so you can import it in and have better equipment ready. Also it appears that more happens if you have a former Origins character ready...not sure though becasue I just started it brand new as an Orlesian Warden.
Wait, so the expansion has more origins for new characters if you dont import an old one? I like this if it is true.
Also I think it is funny that everyone is listing their second playthrough as an evil mage. Mine is too... and allied with the werewolves.
Quote from: lugaru on March 19, 2010, 03:51:05 PM
Quote from: Deaths Jester on March 19, 2010, 03:31:39 PM
Quote from: Podmark on March 18, 2010, 04:03:23 AM
Awakenings is out, any one get it yet?
I got it about a week back, haven't really gotten to get to much into it mainly becuase I decided to start a new character to rush through Origins with again. Seems it's a better idea to have a character that's been through Origins before so you can import it in and have better equipment ready. Also it appears that more happens if you have a former Origins character ready...not sure though becasue I just started it brand new as an Orlesian Warden.
Wait, so the expansion has more origins for new characters if you dont import an old one? I like this if it is true.
Also I think it is funny that everyone is listing their second playthrough as an evil mage. Mine is too... and allied with the werewolves.
No, no new origin story...it plays out as a reason for a new warden to be heading to Ferelden mainly, though there are some different reactions happening if you are Orlesian instead of the old character. As for the second time around, I'm doing the rouge run...I'm not a big mage character type...I love the sneaky stuff!
Quote from: lugaru on March 19, 2010, 03:51:05 PM
Also I think it is funny that everyone is listing their second playthrough as an evil mage. Mine is too... and allied with the werewolves.
I tried to ally with them as well but I missed my chance (didn't have Expert Coercion at lvl 14) so I'm going back to an old save file to try to get that one. I thought the point where you could choose was later, when Zantharian (sp?) meets Witherfang, but sadly no. :(
My second playthrough is a good mage.
Well I have been playing Awakenings and so far its dissapointing. The main issue I have is that you don't interact with your party the way you could in origins. There are no real dialog options to initiate. You can find certain objects to examine with people in your party and that can initiate a dialog but so far thats the only way I have found to do it exceot for 1 gift I gave that caused a dialog option.
I believe every companion has at least a couple of locations that can trigger conversation, and at least one gift that does the same, but it was disappointing that you can't talk to them like you could in Origins.
My biggest problem with the expansion is that it was really easy. With the increased level cap, and some of the high-end abilities, nothing but the end boss was any sort of challenge, and even it was easier than the archdemon fight. I guess that makes sense, within the game's lore, but it makes for any anti-climatic game.
Just beat it..twice...which is really sorry! I was expecting a lot more from it, seeing as it's a Bioware game. It almost felt like it was slapped together really becuase I did EVERY quest offered and was done in little under 10 hrs...which I didn't expect. Worse is it didn't really add anything to the former game either...really sorry. Almsot makes me want to sell it back and buy the original Mass Effect instead.
Just finished Awakenings. The last battle was crazy...thank goodness for Ser Pounce-a-lot!
Now I'm debating if I should play it through a second time as a new rogue (haven't played with that class much yet). I'm also itching to get back into Mass Effect 2 and finish that before Red Dead Redemption comes out. I have a feeling RDR is going to consume my play time.
I bought this game though Steam a few weeks ago and am nearing the end of my first, and perhaps last, playthrough. With all of the special content this game take forever to play through. I think I'm near the end.
I just finished playing it and yes it is a very long game if you play all of the side quest and back story missions, but the story was awesome! I was hook with the story and that's what kept me playing. I'm scared to play DA2 because a lot of people are saying that it's nothing like DA:O
Quote from: JeyNyce on August 30, 2011, 12:29:29 AM
I just finished playing it and yes it is a very long game if you play all of the side quest and back story missions, but the story was awesome! I was hook with the story and that's what kept me playing. I'm scared to play DA2 because a lot of people are saying that it's nothing like DA:O
I wouldn't be scared. There are some changes but it's still a good game and if it's story you liked then you'll want to try it out. I actually like DA2 better in some ways.
Spoiler
Do you find out what happened to your child if you "danced" with Morrigan to break the Grey Warden/Archdemon situation?
My favorite part of the game was learning what happened afterwards.
Quote from: Xenolith on August 30, 2011, 12:30:53 PM
Spoiler
Do you find out what happened to your child if you "danced" with Morrigan to break the Grey Warden/Archdemon situation?
My favorite part of the game was learning what happened afterwards.
I totally missed that part. How do you dance with .....that person?
She gives you that option right before the battle with the Archdemon while you are still in the main city. Denerim, I think?
Quote from: Xenolith on August 31, 2011, 11:48:44 AM
She gives you that option right before the battle with the Archdemon while you are still in the main city. Denerim, I think?
I beat the game already, but will go back for that