Dragon Age Origins Review
There were seven Old Gods, great winged dragons that were said to have ruled over the ancient world. Scholars assume that the Old Gods must indeed have been real at one point, but most agree that they were likely actual dragons – ancient high dragons of a magnitude not known today, and impressive enough to frighten ancient peoples into worshipping them. Some even claim that these dragons slumber as a form of hibernation, not as a result of the Maker’s wrath.
To date, four of the Old Gods are said to have risen as corrupted archdemons: Dumat, the first and most powerful, was slain at the Battle of Silent Fields. Zazikel fell at the Battle of Starkhaven, Toth died at the Battle of Hunter Fell, and Andoral was felled by Garahel, the legendary Grey Warden, at the Battle of Ayesleigh.
The archdemons have been identified only after years of argument among scholars, and to this day it is unclear whether the archdemons were truly Old Gods and not simply dragons. All that is known is that the darkspawn hunt for them deep underground. If they are truly the Old Gods, as many scholars believe, then we have only three Blights remaining. When all the Old Gods have risen and been slain, however, what will happen? Will the Blights end forever, and humanity earn forgiveness from the Maker at last? We shall see.
- - From The Old Gods Rise Again by Sister Mary, Chantry scholar, 8:50 Blessed.
-
From RPG legend BioWare – creators of Baldur’s Gate, Neverwinter Nights, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, and Mass Effect – comes Dragon Age: Origins, a dark fantasy game of epic proportions. And unlike the popular vernacular, I do not use that word lightly… There is no question that the PC is the premiere platform for experiencing this game. The graphics, interface, controls, and price are all better, and powerful mod tools have already been released! Just how good is this supposed spiritual successor to Baldur’s Gate? Keep reading, friend, and find out!
Of course, the focus in Dragon Age is on you, the hero. You begin with one of six “origins,” a background story you choose based on your race and class. These interactive introductions usually last a couple hours, giving you perspective on your character and his/her place in the world while also tutoring you on the gameplay basics. Once you finish this, you are thrust into the main story that is shared by all characters, at which point you begin to explore, build your group of adventurers, and set off to save the world.