As a long-time fan of the Dragon Age series, having played Origins, DA2, and Inquisition multiple times, and delved into the comics, novels, movies, and TV show, I can confidently say that Dragon Age: Veilguard lives up to its legacy and delivers an immersive and fun adventure set in previously unexplored areas of Thedas.
Veilguard's storytelling feels right at home alongside the beloved comics and recent TV series. The addition of the lore podcast, which introduces you to the companion characters ahead of the game's release, is a brilliant touch that enhanced my enjoyment of the overall experience.
Some have voiced concerns about the inclusion of a non-binary character, but I found Taash to be a valuable addition to the party with an engaging storyline. Kudos to the developers for providing much-needed representation for the trans community, all while keeping the gameplay and narrative engaging and enjoyable.
Fans of DA2 will be pleased with the combat, as it feels most similar to that installment. While the writing may seem shaky in the first act, it quickly finds its footing and picks up quickly in the second act, presenting a compelling story filled with memorable boss fights and dragon encounters. They finally really put the "Dragon" in "Dragon Age"!
The breathtaking environments further elevate the experience, and I was delighted by the absence of tedious fetch quests that bored me in Inquisition.
Although there are fewer choices than in previous games, your decisions still matter and impact the world around you.
Also, worth noting I completed the game with over 95 hours played and didn't experience a SINGLE BUG OR GLITCH. It never crashed. Which I feel is a rarity these days...
Veilguard is a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike, and those criticizing it for being queer-inclusive seem to have missed the fact that the Dragon Age series has always embraced diverse characters and stories. Don't miss out on this fantastic adventure through Thedas!