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Dragon Age Origins

Archive: 323 posts

Anyone get this yet? I got it today, and while the graphics are absolute crap, it's actually pretty cool.

I'm a dwarf, and I'm a beast.

2009-11-07 19:58:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

No... what is it like?

2009-11-07 22:08:00

Author:
CreateNPlay

Posts: 1266

You really haven't heard of it yet?

It's an RPG by Bioware. It's kind of like the Neverwinter Nights games.

You get to choose from 3 different races at the beginning, each with two different "origin" story, which is like the introduction to the game.

Hasn't come out on the PS3 in Europe yet, though.

Oh, and today, I discovered that if you get the camera through Morrigan, she'll disappear, but for a brief second revealing...a naughty part.

2009-11-08 01:44:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

2009-11-08 13:39:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

I saw a friend playing this last night. I had no interest in this at all until I actually got to make a character and see some of the gameplay. If bioware made it, chances are it's really good. I'm going to pick it up today and give it a go I think. ^_^

I am going to play as a female elf, but I am unsure whether I will do magic or melee.

It even gives you the crazy amount of choices that KOTOR and Jade Empire gave you in conversation. I would recommend magic as you do get a couple of tank characters, and as far as I am (which isn't very far), mages are harder to come by.

2009-11-08 14:51:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

2009-11-08 15:05:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

So, you'd recommend this, Awesomemans? I've been somewhat interested in this game for a while, but I just picked Demons Souls up, and that should keep me busy for a lengthy amount of time. I might look into this game later, though.

By the way, how's the magic in this game work? Like, MP, casting time, overall effectiveness, etc.

Well, I haven't taken control of the one mage I have in my party very much (I'm playing as a Warrior) but you have to assign spells from a cool menu you bring up using L2 and then you can cast spells. From what I've heard, the PC is better for magic characters than the consoles, so if you can get it on the PC that's what I would recommend.

I can't really say much about spells besides that they use mana and take time to recharge. Sorry.

BUT I DO RECCOMEND THIS GAME IT"S FUAN LAWAL!!

2009-11-08 15:31:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

Thanks, anyway. I just like to use mages most of the time with RPGs, so I figured I'd ask. And I will be looking at this game in more detail in the near future, I'm sure.

2009-11-08 21:38:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

2009-11-09 19:24:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

My rental is coming tomorrow from Lovefilm. Theres a few people recommended it actually. Can you answer me a couple of questions?

Is the equipment equipping better than Mass Effect? i.e. Can you equip separate armour pieces, shoulder pads, rings belts etc.

Is it free roaming like oblivion/fallout?

Um, I don't know what you mean by separate armor pieces. It's not as deep as Morrowind where you have to have a left pauldron, a right pauldron, grieves, gauntlets, etc. and I haven't played Mass Effect so I'm not so sure, but armor is broken up into a couple things: head, body, hands, legs, and a couple other slots for non-armor things like rings and the like.

It is kind of "free roaming", however not nearly as open as Fallout or Oblivion. You can visit most of the areas in any order, but the world isn't truly open for you to explore. There's a world map which from which you select where to go, and as you travel to your destination you will usually come across some kind of events (I don't know if they're random or not) on the road.

2009-11-10 23:08:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

I just got this Sunday, and i decided to play as a female Dalish Elf. I haven't gotten that far into it because I'm still playing Final Fantasy IV The After Years, but from what I have played, I do like it. I am playing without a helmet currently though, because my character looks really dumb with a helmet.

2009-11-10 23:14:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

Thanks Awesomemans. By the seperate pieces of armour I meant like Morrowind yeah with shoulder sections etc. Mass Effect had one piece armour, and a very small amount. In fact the whole equipment bit in it stank.

It arrved yesterday, I'm gonna have a play today.

2009-11-11 10:15:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

2009-11-11 22:20:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Wow the graphics are beyond terrible xD

I hope that's a sign that they put a lot into the gameplay, it's close to looking like they tried hard and failed.

Either way i'm still getting it

2009-11-11 23:01:00

Author:
Dexiro

Posts: 2100

The armour system sounds more like Oblivion than anything else. Helms, cuirasses, greaves, boots, and gauntlets.

By the way, what kind of melee weapons are we looking at here? Like, longswords, shortswords, claymores, daggers, etc?
You pretty much got it there. Longswords,, huge 2-handed swords (pretty much claymores), daggers, maces, axes, staffs, longbows, little bows, crossbows, shields, a whole bunch of stuff.

Wow the graphics are beyond terrible xD

I hope that's a sign that they put a lot into the gameplay, it's close to looking like they tried hard and failed.

Either way i'm still getting it

Beyond terrible? That's quite an overstatement. World design is great. Forests look and feel more alive than in Oblivion and were designed well. There are lots of lighting effects to drool over like beams of light flooding through cracks leaves of trees and the glistening armor. I mean, Dragon Age by no means looks like LittleBigPlanet, but it doesn't look bad. It's by no means terrible.

I'm glad to hear your getting the game, because you're way wrong about that second sentence. there. Well, the second half of that sentence, anyway.

2009-11-12 00:55:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

Ok i take it back then

I've only actually seen one cutscene of some guys talking and read a load of negative youtube comments - i wasn't expecting the characters to look that worse than the ones from Oblivion.
Generally the graphics don't bother me anyway

2009-11-12 01:05:00

Author:
Dexiro

Posts: 2100

I had no idea about this game until the other day. Any videos I'd seen looked like button mashing so I paid no attention to it whatsoever. Turns out it's a highly anticipated RPG from Bioware!

Anyway as soon as I did some research into it I new I'd love it, so I have it on pre-order. Doesn't come out on PS3 for another week though which is annoying. Same day as Assassin's Creed 2 and LBP PSP in fact so have no idea what I'll be playing that weekend!

2009-11-15 07:58:00

Author:
Matt 82

Posts: 1096

As far as what to play that weekend, I do have to say that Dragon Age is the best game I've played in quite a long time, and is definitely in my personal "top 5 games of all time".

2009-11-16 02:19:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I have to agree completely. I can't stop playing it. I sat down at 4pm today and looked up at the clock and it was 11pm. I have never played an RPG like this. Mostly just japanese RPGs. It's just great!

2009-11-16 04:05:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

I have never played an RPG like this. Mostly just japanese RPGs. It's just great!

Without spoiling it, the way they present whatever ending you get highly suggests that they are doing with Dragon Age: Origins the same thing they are doing with their Mass Effect RPG series.

By which I mean Mass Effect 2 is about to come out, and when you start it, if you played Mass Effect "1", you start the game as your character and whatever you did in the original Mass Effect "counts". By which I mean, any companions that died, are still dead, however you made the world change, that's still how the world is, and so forth. You basically start the game with your old save file, and it makes a difference.

I honestly cannot wait to see a continuation of the Dragon Age series. My Noble Dwarf Rogue really needs to ***** down ******* to finally **** ** ****** *****.

Whatever you do, do not delete your save file after you complete the game.

2009-11-16 04:26:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Wow some really positive reviews then xD

I might have to make this my new first priority

2009-11-16 09:30:00

Author:
Dexiro

Posts: 2100

With their plans for 2 years worth of dlc is anyone else holding off purchasing now and waiting for the inevitable goty/ultimate edition with all the extras thrown in?

2009-11-16 11:03:00

Author:
Rabid-Coot

Posts: 6728

Without spoiling it, the way they present whatever ending you get highly suggests that they are doing with Dragon Age: Origins the same thing they are doing with their Mass Effect RPG series.

That's exciting! A sequel would be awesome. I'm doing the female Dalish Elf story right now, but I'm liking this so much that I may go back and do another origin. Not sure. I'm really loving this one, though. Although, it's going to take me forever to finish. I can't stop petting the dog.

2009-11-16 15:20:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

Without spoiling it, the way they present whatever ending you get highly suggests that they are doing with Dragon Age: Origins the same thing they are doing with their Mass Effect RPG series.

By which I mean Mass Effect 2 is about to come out, and when you start it, if you played Mass Effect "1", you start the game as your character and whatever you did in the original Mass Effect "counts". By which I mean, any companions that died, are still dead, however you made the world change, that's still how the world is, and so forth. You basically start the game with your old save file, and it makes a difference.

I honestly cannot wait to see a continuation of the Dragon Age series. My Noble Dwarf Rogue really needs to ***** down ******* to finally **** ** ****** *****.

Whatever you do, do not delete your save file after you complete the game.

Pfft! Dwarf nobles? What douches! You gotta play as the Warrior Dwarf Commoner if you wanna be really bad ***.

Anyway, since I've finally beat Borderlands, I've got more time to play this! However, I'm not yet level 50....

2009-11-16 20:46:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

Well EDGE magazine thinks it's crap. Gave it a 5.

I've only just started it though and I'm rather enjoying it.

Can you pause the action on consoles? I remember seeing a video where the action paused as you switched characters in action, but I can't seem to do it at all so I'm wondering if that's an exclusive feature to the PC?

2009-11-21 16:29:00

Author:
Matt 82

Posts: 1096

Well EDGE magazine thinks it's crap. Gave it a 5.

I've only just started it though and I'm rather enjoying it.

Yeah - video game criticism is an industry that itself is open to a lot of criticism. Honestly, I side more with the 9.9/10 ratings. Absolutely brilliant game.

Can you pause the action on consoles?

Yes, just open up the radial menu.

2009-11-21 18:26:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Cheers. I got the radial menu part. Was hoping it was going to be more like KOTOR in that I could simply pause, stack attacks and choose when the action would resume, but when I select an attack the character does it there and then. And of course you have the wheel in the middle of the screen as well. I'll get used to it I suppose, but it's a pain when there's so much happening around you.

2009-11-21 19:56:00

Author:
Matt 82

Posts: 1096

I'm still playing it and still loving it, if that means anything. I also would side with the 9.9/10 ratings. Jagrevi is right. It's brilliant. I seriously think it's the best game I've played in years. Excluding LBP, of course.

2009-11-22 15:05:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

oh man! Curse this thread! You guys are confirming that I need to go out and get yet another ps3 game. . . that would make like 5 in the past two months!

Whats up with all the awesome games coming out at the same time. . . somebody has gotta tell the game makers to pace themselves!

2009-11-22 15:34:00

Author:
squirlin

Posts: 224

somebody has gotta tell the game makers to pace themselves!

Pace yourself just because all the awesome games are out at the same time it doesn't mean you have to buy them all right away. Save some for the release schedules dry patches.

2009-11-22 15:54:00

Author:
Rabid-Coot

Posts: 6728

I don't understand the complaints people have with graphics...i personally enjoy the graphics and see no problem in them...if you really want a game with realistic graphics then go play some "OUTSIDE" from the makers of "IRL"

but anyways I played the game and i love it so much....now i just need to get myself a decent PC so i can enjoy the PC version which includes all the mods people will be making for it and such....the game is by far the BEST RPG i've ever had on the PS3 and would enjoy it even better on PC

2009-11-25 04:25:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

2009-11-25 14:51:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Dude... I think I need to sig that.

Anyway, I still haven't picked this game up yet, since I'm still plodding away with Demon's Souls. But I think I shall be getting this one soon. Has anyone here used magic enough to talk about it? I'm probably going to be making a mage character, but I'd kinda like to know a bit more about the magic system in this game first...

i made myself an arcane warrior...

basically magic isn't that bad...i personally enjoy it and when you unlock BLOOD magic and shapeshifting it gets better...

game is really effin sick

protip: get it for PC if you have the system requirments.... dragon age + mods = dragon age > demon soul's

i loved demon soul's but then i got this game and haven't looked back since...i might play demon soul's again sometime but for now im enjoy replaying this game with new characters...

my 2nd playthrough and i'm still not bored hehe

also cool thing about the game is you really aren't that restricted when it comes to weapons...so as long as you have enough points in str you can equip swords and shields and attack while you use magic...love the game...just wish there were more then just 3 races :/

i could go on and on about this game but you can tell it's really awesome...just get it ASAP

ALSO IF YOU PURCHASE THE PS3 VERSION it uploads all characters you made in the game into the website...mind you they have some tech issues right now but you can check out my characters on the following link and all my trophies and such http://social.bioware.com/playerprofile.php?nid=2290049353&game=ps3

2009-11-25 23:57:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

I just bought this game. Will let you know what I think.

2009-11-26 00:03:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Has anyone here used magic enough to talk about it? I'm probably going to be making a mage character, but I'd kinda like to know a bit more about the magic system in this game first...

Yes.

My character was a Dwarf, so while I didn't have magic myself, my character ended up romantically entangled with a spell-caster, who is actually who I chose to directly control during most combat situations.

This is me ...

http://social.bioware.com/da_game_other/portraits/538000/537989/537989.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/CharGen/cg_ico_gender_male.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/CharGen/cg_ico_race_male_dwarf.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/Class/classico_rogue.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/CharGen/cg_ico_origin_dwarf_noble.png

Despite being a dwarf, I have played through the game, and have watched others play through the entire game as well, so I believe I can give some context for the "Should I devote myself to being a mage?" question.

Magi are a very strong tactical backbone, so I highly recommend their use. However, it should be noted that that doesn't mean you need to be one. During a combat situation, all characters in your chosen party are essentially equal, you control other members of your party to the same degree you control yourself. By which I mean, a party consisting of you-mage and a warrior is pretty much the same as a party consisting of you-warrior and a mage - in combat, which one is "you" doesn't particularly matter.

So the real question is ... do you want the mage in the party to be YOU?

Without revealing anything you shouldn't know going into the game, the obvious benefit and drawback ...

Benefit: If you are the mage, it can be safely guaranteed that you will always have a spellcaster at your disposal. You will never betray yourself, or be killed off in the middle of the game due to eating some bad fugu, or any other fate that may come to pass (depending on the choices you make) to one of the other party members. If you're worried you won't be able to find any mages to join your party, or something unfortunate may befall those who do - being a mage yourself could be a sort of extra safety net in this regard.

The Bad Part: It bears mentioning that mages in Ferelden are incredibly distrusted, they are regulated by a very oppressive group, and are susceptible to being overtaken by demons. Essentially, being a mage doesn't do wonders for your civil liberties, or the degree to which some people are liable to trust you.

There are half a dozen possible ways for the game to start, depending on the kind of background you choose. If you choose a mage though, there is only one possibility - you start off in the tower, as part of the circle. No choice about it - if you're a mage, off to the tower, you don't get a chance to start anywhere else.

All in all, being a spellcaster in Ferelden is both a gift and a curse. Without revealing anything you shouldn't know going into the game, the real question is whether you want to take on this power/risk yourself, or effectively have another character on your team be the one to take on this power/risk.

----------------------------

Ok, so there is my general context I'd recommend thinking about going into the game. However, if you want a more direct recommendation on to whether or not to go mage, I'll put one in a spoiler below.

No. Don't.

I won't say if it's because mages are too weak, if they're too strong, if being a mage makes something inevitable in the story, if mages can never get certain party members or missions ... I won't say why.

But if you want my honest recommendation - don't do it, just add a spell-caster to your party later.

2009-11-26 18:50:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

As a follow up ... for anyone who is just about to start Dragon Age, I highly recommend taking just a little bit and playing Dragon Age Journeys (http://www.dragonagejourneys.com/) first. It's just a little internet, mini-game, but playing it gives you access to 3 exclusive starting items in the game.

2009-11-26 22:02:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I just bought this game yesterday and haven't tried it yet

Can't wait, I love me a good addictive RPG.

Am checking out that link, jagrevi

2009-11-26 22:12:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I just bought this game yesterday and haven't tried it yet

Can't wait, I love me a good addictive RPG.

Awesome! Please tell us some of the choices you make along the way, would love to hear it.

Also, I'd suggest "Hard" as the standard difficult setting, but that's up to player preference.

Am checking out that link, jagrevi
The items it unlocks are pretty decent for beginning the game with. Free Gear.

Even if you don't play all of the mini-game, you get one piece of gear just for starting.

2009-11-26 22:36:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

From what i've seen this kind of looks like a more imaginative version of Oblivion.

The enemies in Oblivion consisted of zombies, skeletons, bandits and anything else that only ever appeared in every rpg ever. They like thought of one good idea and did nothing but that!

Still haven't seen much from dragonage but it looks a lot more promising, and it has dragons presumably which are awesome

2009-11-26 22:40:00

Author:
Dexiro

Posts: 2100

Still haven't seen much from dragonage but it looks a lot more promising, and it has dragons presumably which are awesome

Yes, it has a few dragons.

2009-11-26 23:01:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Yeah i've ordered it already but my mum isn't letting me have it until christmas xD

2009-11-26 23:24:00

Author:
Dexiro

Posts: 2100

Yes, it has a few dragons.

Anyways, if you haven't picked it up yet, and you like RPGs, I highly recommend it. One of my top 5 games of all time hands down.

Also, if you do go for it, please remember to consider the DLC and the link I posted above.

The DLC is highly worth it (there are two main pieces of DLC right now, plus one scheduled to come out next month.), and the linked mini-game I posted above is a little cheesy but still ... free gear.

to my knowledge there are only 3 REAL dragons (AKA boss level dragons)

CAUTION SPOILER ALERT AHEAD (put them in spoiler code but you know how some people click anyway...this is a warning to click those at your own risk)

which are Flemmeth the shapeshifter, highdragon, and the archdemon itself

also another advantage jagrevi didn't mention (or i prolly skipped maybe) is that you can be a mage and be known as a mage but it doesn't stop you from using normal equipment and some good weapons like swords and daggers and such so you can be like me and make an arcane warrior and such

@dexiro

i wouldn't go as far as oblivion...since oblivion had unicorns and mythical creatures out the wazoo....while this game tends to be somewhat "realistic" in how it is done...since you cant play as a lizard man or a dark elf

but if you really want to compare this game to another one then the closest would be baldurs gate right on the money

about to beat it on my 2nd intro....1st playthrough was great but they popped a fallout3 on me (ending MEANS ending...meaning once you win you can only play your DLC quests and you CAN'T move to any other places in the map...not even to travel...so save often but try to save before you ever activate the final quest...you'll know what i mean soon)

2009-11-27 03:15:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

@dexiro

i wouldn't go as far as oblivion...since oblivion had unicorns and mythical creatures out the wazoo....while this game tends to be somewhat "realistic" in how it is done...since you cant play as a lizard man or a dark elf

but if you really want to compare this game to another one then the closest would be baldurs gate right on the money

I don't think Bethesda's creative enough to think of things like that xD
Actually now i think about it i'm convinced they copied everything from the LotR movies, and they still missed out the best monsters

I still have no idea what to expect from this game though, whatever it is it sounds good

Maybe this'll be the same and i'll have to take those comments back, i just enjoy ranting about Bethesda, expecting it to be far better in execution though.

2009-11-27 03:25:00

Author:
Dexiro

Posts: 2100

to my knowledge ...

CAUTION SPOILER ALERT AHEAD

Actually, everything you say after "to my knowledge" and before "another advantage jagrevi didn't mention" is pretty much a spoiler, and should probably all be put in spoiler tags if not deleted.

Anyways, speaking of spoiler tags - using only the achievement icons to make this thread as generally non-spoiler as possible, I have a brief summary of the way my story went below - so if you're familiar with the achievement icons, I think it's a rather safe way of sharing your story without spoiling anything here or tempting people to click on spoilers that will really spoil it for them.

A, overly succinct summary of the REAL (my) story, in 6 icons ...

http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/achievements/ACH_WitchGoneWild.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/achievements/ACH_DECISIVE_LIBERATOR.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/achievements/ACH_DECISIVE_HARROW_ALLY.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/achievements/ACH_DECISIVE_ANNULMENT_INV.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/achievements/ACH_DECISIVE_CEREMONIALIST.png
http://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/achievements/ACH_DEC_A_DARK_PROM.png

2009-11-27 03:51:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Well so far I've been playing Journey in my spare time and am having a lot of fun with it haha... still didn't get to give my PS3 love with origins.

2009-11-27 06:57:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Actually, everything you say after "to my knowledge" and before "another advantage jagrevi didn't mention" is pretty much a spoiler, and should probably all be put in spoiler tags if not deleted.

i don't understand how telling someone there is 3 dragons is spoiling the game...since that's the ONLY thing that is not in spoiler tags.....

so idk what you mean at all....everything else i said after "to my knowledge" was that there is 3 dragons...the WARNING that there are spoilers in the tags...and the tags themselves....and other then that saying the archdemon is one of them which doesn't take a genius to realize that....so i ask you...where EXACTLY did i spoil the game? when i said there are 3 dragons? or being obvious by stating the archdemon is one? because you have me in a state of confusion right now....really

ANYWAAAAAAAYS ending that conversation entirely i heard that they will do with the sequel of dragon age the same thing that they will do with mass effect 2 which i can't wait to see

IMPORTED SAVE FILE!!!!

basically stuff that you did in game until you beat it will transfer....so however your ending went it will go after those events and stuff will be effected depending on what you did during certain BIG quests and BIG game changing decisions...

all i know is that if they do i hope they [SPOILER] find a way to revive my character or something because it almost made me cry when my character was dead and the king alistair was giving a speech about me...what almost broke me to tears was when he said how some of the people i affected in their lives loved me...and there the camera zooms on my love....leliana...shocking...so hopefully somehow they find a way to revive me and have leliana so we can be back together

2009-11-27 07:15:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

Well so far I've been playing Journey in my spare time and am having a lot of fun with it haha... still didn't get to give my PS3 love with origins.

Awesome.

Just remember to download the gear from Journeys along with any DLC you pick up before you make your character. If you get that Helmet of the Deep ... I really have to say that is a very nice helmet to start to the game with.

Anyways, out of curiosity ... for the actual game, any idea on the race/class/background you might be going? I'd be very interested to hear YOUR story.

i don't understand how telling someone there is (# removed) dragons is spoiling the game... ...where EXACTLY did i spoil the game?

I would consider that a spoiler, because it's telling you specifically what to expect in the game.

The same way I would consider it a spoiler if I sat down to a game and someone told me the bosses would consist of 2 ogres, a wolf-cyborg, and then a giant plant-monster at the bottom of an ice cave. It's telling me exactly what to expect, and ruining some of my ability to anticipate what may or may not happen.

If I had heard that before I played the game, it would have lowered my enjoyment of it - not a huge amount, mind you, but lowered it never-the-less, as I would have completely unrealistic, specific knowledge, and lost some of that feeling of genuine contextual world exploration.

I believe one of the genius elements of a game like this that is so fleshed out story wise is your ability to take any element of the lore and potentially anticipate it's inclusion and relevance in the main story. That is not the case when you've specifically defined the limits in the game, as it does effectively the same thing as just stating part of the story - it kills off possibilities from player perspective.

i heard that they will do with the sequel of dragon age the same thing that they will do with mass effect 2 which i can't wait to see

IMPORTED SAVE FILE!!!!

basically stuff that you did in game until you beat it will transfer....so however your ending went it will go after those events and stuff will be effected depending on what you did during certain BIG quests and BIG game changing decisions...

Yes. Keep your save file, you're not done with it yet. (well, that special save it made for you after the game at least)

What you do in Origins will count for future Dragon Age games.

all i know is that if they do i hope they [SPOILER] ***and this is where he typed out his giant spoiler***

Ah.

Despite feeling largely uncomfortable putting such a giant spoiler only a click away in a thread full of people just about to start the game (some people can't help but click, or click before they read what's above), thank you for sharing your story there.

It appears that things turned out very, very different for you.

However, yes, I would not be too optimistic for how things will be for you heading into the next game.

2009-11-27 13:49:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

2009-11-27 15:17:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Oh, man, you guys. You're just making me want to play this game even MOAR now. Quick question, though. If I play that minigame thing that Jag posted, but then play Dragon Age on my PS3, will I still be able to get the stuff from the game?

Yes, but to clarify...

You can get the items you "unlock" into the actual game - so the Amulet, the Belt of Pouches, and the Helmet, depending on which ones you manage to unlock. (Check out the "unlocked" section - you should find descriptions for 3 items, those are the items you get for real game)

The stuff you actually pick up in the mini-game itself you don't get to keep - as the none of the characters in the mini-game represent the character you'll make when you start the game.

Essentially, you get prizes in the game for getting "achievements" in the mini-game.

2009-11-27 15:49:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I'm honestly still not sure how I'll go in the full game... I did just get the helm of the deep though

Hmm... maybe I should pop the game in now and see if it actually works haha

2009-11-27 16:34:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I'm honestly still not sure how I'll go in the full game...

Well, you still have time to think it through.

... I did just get the helm of the deep though

Hmm... maybe I should pop the game in now and see if it actually works haha

Or ... maybe you don't.

2009-11-27 16:39:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Heh... I got a used copy with the promo code card still in it but of course they've already been redeemed

Ah well, installing!

2009-11-27 16:44:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Heh... I got a used copy with the promo code card still in it but of course they've already been redeemed

Bah - oh well :/

You picking up any of the DLC for it? There's two very good ones out right now, and one coming out next month (whose name I won't repeat as unfortunately it's name and description are slight spoliers for the early game)

2009-11-27 16:48:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Well I'll see how I like it first. I'm looking through the manual now, a good number of interesting classes to specialize in. Oh, decisions, decisions...

2009-11-27 16:56:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

It probably bears noting that when you hit the proper level - you don't get to just choose whichever speciality you want - you need to actually find a way to learn that speciality first, either by being taught by a character, through a book, etc.

2009-11-27 16:59:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Ooo that's interesting. Also a question: Are the online game bonus content a one shot deal or can I use them in any new game I start?

2009-11-27 16:59:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Ooo that's interesting. Also a question: Are the online game bonus content a one shot deal or can I use them in any new game I start?

I'm not sure actually - so I wouldn't create a "test" character just in case - I'd wait and decide what you really want to be first.

... and yeah, I'm just lurking in this thread to hear you announce how you start the game, lol.

2009-11-27 17:01:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

2009-11-27 17:07:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Also a question: Are the online game bonus content a one shot deal or can I use them in any new game I start?

Wait ... as a clarification, do you mean the promo items like the Helm of the Deep and the promo-code stuff, or do you mean the DLC?

Because the DLC is always there, since it adds elements to the game world, not just dump stuff in your inventory. It's the promo-items I'm not sure on.

2009-11-27 17:09:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

lol it's just taking forever to go through the menus, between getting the bonus DLC and getting back to the game... I think I'll start as an elf, either a warrior or a rogue that'd go more towards ranger... hmm.. as cliche as it might be.

Well Ranger is an actual Rogue specialization, so if you want to go Ranger, you'd need to go Rogue.

Also, when choosing between the two elvish backgrounds ... it should probably be noted that the City Elf background is ... serious subject matter - especially if you're female.

Don't get me wrong, it's EXCELLENT. My fiance' was a city elf and I loved watchingh her story, it's actually the one I would recommend - it's just that it touches on a particular subject matter that might be a bit much depending on if you plan to play around children, for example - so that's something to keep in mind when choosing a background.

2009-11-27 17:12:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Irony is that I did want to choose the city elf background, heh.

2009-11-27 17:14:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Irony is that I did want to choose the city elf background, heh.

Well it's only the first couple hours that I'd put the "are young children around you" warning on.

The city elves are ... not well treated.

2009-11-27 17:17:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Well it's only the first couple hours that I'd put the "are young children around you" warning on.

The city elves are ... not well treated.

Heh... well I think I'll go for a city elf rogue that has dreams of breaking free

And... if the background description on the character screen is accurate I think I see what you mean. Actually one of my main issues in feudal societies...

2009-11-27 17:17:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Heh... well I think I'll go for a city elf rogue that has dreams of breaking free

Awesome!

Well ... that's what I was waiting to find out.

Have fun!

2009-11-27 17:19:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Heh thanks, willl do

2009-11-27 17:20:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

OK I can safely say this game is amazing.

I definitely picked the right character...

2009-11-27 18:29:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

City Elves are pansies.

You should have been a Dwarven Commoner. You can't get any more bad *** than a dwarf. They're like a combination of Vikings and Lumberjacks, just shrunk down to balance everything out. Let's face it, if the Dwarves weren't small, you would be able to beat the whole game in seconds.

2009-11-27 18:35:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

I just have a special spot for the elf's story...
Ah, this is how feudalism is possible. All weapons are banned in the alienage so that the elves are totally defenseless and at the mercy of their human lords. And people wonder why I'm so passionate about the right to bear arms... Oh I can't wait to storm that castle and %&!# that guy over.

2009-11-27 18:38:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

OK I can safely say this game is amazing.

I definitely picked the right character...

Yay!

Now that you're on board, I highly recommend the DLC - I won't go into why but it's extremely practical.

Maybe next time

with 50 to 100 hours for a typical playthrough - by the time you finish, I actually don't recommend doing it all over again for a couple reasons.

One main reason is your "save file" continues on into the next game - meaning that the continuity you create now is "your continuity". To make up a situation, that beggar you run into on the road between cities may very well do well for himself and appear as a possible companion character in the next game - and you'd probably want to remember whether you helped him out or stole his sack of pebbles the next time you run into him. I don't recommend "confusing your continuity". I know people who played through Mass Effect multiple times, but now with Mass Effect 2 about to hit they wish they hadn't; the "continuing story" loses a lot of it's appeal that way.

Now of course if you really want to play through the whole thing again after you beat it, you are able to - but I don't recommend cheapening your story like that when there are SO many other great Bioware RPGs out there you can play before the next Dragon Age installment comes out.

You can always just do what I do ... "play it again" vicariously simply by listening to how other people's stories turn out.

...

...

...

*awaits anxiously to hear more of the tale of [unknown name] the city elf*

http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumb_394/1241008522RhGA1J.jpg

2009-11-27 18:57:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Well I called him Foofles and his will is vigilance for righteousness and to fight for and maintain freedom of all people :o At least at the moment.

Also I am mostly investing into his coercion skill. Not sure how useful this will be, but knowing other Bio Ware RPGs, it should come in handy. Also I model him after myself... I like to be calm and overall good willed and not having to kill anyone unless I really have to

2009-11-27 19:03:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Here's a question ... dual-wielding possibly back-stabbing criticals, ranged weapons, or a hybrid?

2009-11-27 19:09:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

emphasis on sneaky attacks and team support with a little ranged as backup... well... I'll decide that for sure when I proceed through the game and see how my character feels.

2009-11-27 19:12:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

emphasis on sneaky attacks and team support with a little ranged as backup.

Speaking of which I'll also be curious to hear what kind of team you assemble.

Alot of people who played the game seem to say how who they actually liked/trusted of the possible companion characters they found largely determined who was on their team more-so than any actual strategy, and that they then just developed a strategy from there.

Speaking of such things - again, I'd recommend playing on the "Hard" difficulty as the standard. If you really want a challenge, you could always play on "Nightmarish", but the settings for "Normal" seem way too easy to exploit.

... ok, I should probably stop "chewing your ear off". lol.

Sorry, I just carried away. I absolutely love this game.

2009-11-27 19:20:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I am actually playing on the "hard" difficulty right now

And haha... was fighting some animals and my cousin shouts "You'll pay, human!"... >.>

2009-11-27 19:22:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I am actually playing on the "hard" difficulty right now

And haha... was fighting some animals and my cousin shouts "You'll pay, human!"... >.>

but ... but you're an elf!

2009-11-27 19:23:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Hey, Jag, if you love this game so much, I've got a couple more questions to ask you.

First of all, in the rating, it says something about partial nudity and sexual themes or something to that effect. (I know there's blood and violence and language, too, but those two are the ones I'm actually worried about) What exactly do they mean by that? I assume you can't go into too much detail here, but a basic "What to expect" wouldn't be bad. I still live with my parents and I don't really want to bring anything to...explicit into the house, if you catch my drift.

Also, how feasible is a sort of battlemage character? Like, generally using a sword and shield or maybe a two-handed sword, but supplementing it with magic when the need arises? I tried this on Oblivion, but my magic skills always end up way lower than my melee combat skills. Does how much you use certain skills affect how you level them up? Will I end up frantically trying to balance magic and melee so that one aspect doesn't end up nerfed? If so, I think I'll just stick with a warrior...

2009-11-27 19:27:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Hey, Jag, if you love this game so much, I've got a couple more questions to ask you.

Shoot!

oh ... wait ... you already did. Let me go get another quote box.

First of all, in the rating, it says something about partial nudity and sexual themes or something to that effect. (I know there's blood and violence and language, too, but those two are the ones I'm actually worried about)

Ah, the "partial nudity" and "sexual themes".

I'll try to describe this as best I can without anything too specific.

In the game, you can interact with characters, including those characters who you convince to "join your party" in a multitude of ways, and have varying relationships with them. You can choose to scorn some, make good friends with others, and romance is also a possibility - depending on how you play it.

Now, as this is a world somewhat modeled after our own, romance may in turn lead to intimacy, if you choose for your character to develop that kind of relationship with another character of your choosing. This may lead to love scenes - but I promise you it is nothing 'worse' than you might see on daytime television.

Nothing "explicit" is shown - but yes, your character may end up "bedding" other characters depending on how you shape your story.

And as a further note, things like this are not trivial side things, if you do start up a romantic relationship with a character, it will works itself pretty relevantly into the main story - as will your relationship with most all characters, really.

So as for "what to expect", expect - if you CHOOSE for your character to do such things - for brief love scenes with "hollywood love scene camera angles".

I promise you that sexual content in the game will never approach you unless you approach it first, and even then it's rather tame.

Also, how feasible is a sort of battlemage character? Like, generally using a sword and shield or maybe a two-handed sword, but supplementing it with magic when the need arises? I tried this on Oblivion, but my magic skills always end up way lower than my melee combat skills. Does how much you use certain skills affect how you level them up? Will I end up frantically trying to balance magic and melee so that one aspect doesn't end up nerfed? If so, I think I'll just stick with a warrior...

I don't want to get too explicit here, and I won't say why, but I highly recommend just sticking with warrior. A "Battlemage" type specialization is possible, but you would actually need to find the secret way to unlock it first, and there's also another reason I say that.

I won't go into details as to why, but I'd seriously recommend just going warrior. You can always turn another character into a battlemage later on if/when the opportunity arises for you.

2009-11-27 19:38:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Oh, also, on the "sexual themes".

The uhm ... the city elf background may also touch on a brief non-explicit but much more serious sexual theme if you choose to go for city elf.

That's completely avoided if you're not a city elf but ... the city elves ... they aren't well treated.

2009-11-27 19:40:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Thanks, Jag. That clears a lot up for me. I've gotten bored with Demon's Souls and I'll probably be renting this in the next few days. I'll keep you posted, if you want. I think I've asked all my pertinent questions, too, so good news for you.

2009-11-27 19:42:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

I'm getting this game for Christmas.
I can't wait for this, really I can't.

2009-11-27 19:43:00

Author:
Mod5.0

Posts: 1576

I'll keep you posted, if you want.

Please do. I may have gotten an idea of what class you'll choose to pursue, but I'd love to find out what race, background, and so forth.

Please come back as soon as possible and let us know how your story unfolds.

I think I've asked all my pertinent questions, too, so good news for you.

What do you mean "good news"? You don't think I like talking about this game?

I'm getting this game for Christmas.
I can't wait for this, really I can't.

The third DLC should be out by then - in the meantime, might I recommend doing the Dragon Age Journeys mini-game to unlock some gear to start with? The helmet you can get this way is really quite good all things considered.

2009-11-27 19:46:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I just kinda felt like I was bugging you with all my questions, Jag. That's all. If you don't mine then that's cool. I think I need to play that minigame again, though. I made it through the first quest, but then I stopped.

2009-11-27 19:50:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

I just kinda felt like I was bugging you with all my questions, Jag. That's all.

No, please do bug me. I actually went back and edited the end of the "battlemage/warrior?" response a bit to make it a tad more clear - I really do care about this game and want to help people regarding it.

I think I need to play that minigame again, though. I made it through the first quest, but then I stopped.

Yeah, the mini-game is very dry, comparatively ... but still, it's free gear.

2009-11-27 19:53:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Alright, just making sure. Another quick question, then: Are there two-handed swords, such as claymores, etc?

2009-11-27 19:56:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Alright, just making sure. Another quick question, then: Are there two-handed swords, such as claymores and ******* swords?

Yes.

Assuming you go Warrior, you have a selection of "Weapon Technique Skill Trees" to choose from, so you can choose to take up skills in

Weapon + Shield
Dual-Wielding
Two-Handed Weapons
or Archery

(and other things as well of course, these are just the weapon-style skill-trees)

A Warrior can hypothetically take up skills from any combination of those skill-trees, but if you want your main character to really be an expert in some fighting style, and for equipment-allocation reasons, it would probably serve you well to pick one (and is something worth beginning to think about now while you have the extra time).

The trees are deep enough that you will not gain enough levels to master more than one.

2009-11-27 20:00:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Gotcha. The main toss-up for me will be between dual-wielding and 2-handed swords. I never was a great fan of sword-and-shield and I hate archers almost all of the time.

I guess it will all depend on what kind of character I end up with and what looks cooler.

2009-11-27 20:02:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Gotcha. The main toss-up for me will be between dual-wielding and 2-handed swords. I never was a great fan of sword-and-shield and I hate archers almost all of the time.

I guess it will all depend on what kind of character I end up with and what looks cooler.

It's definitely the thing you have the most time to consider of this early stuff, as you don't really need to commit to that as you start the game.

It's good to get a feel for what you want to do as far as the gender/race/class stuff before going in to "roll up" your character, so that you go into the character creation screen already having given it some thought, but as far as what weapon speciality ... yeah, it's fun to consider, but you won't have to commit to that until farther into the game.

I will say, given the nature of the fighting styles, it may also come down to whether you want to be dishing out the most damage possible, getting ridiculous bonuses and so forth (dual-wielding) or whether you want to be instilling crippling status effects, knocking people over, etc (two-handers).

2009-11-27 20:06:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Right, right. I wasn't really planning on making any definite decisions right now, but it does give me something to think about. I do generally like dealing a lot of damage, though...

At the moment, I'm leaning more towards an elf than a human or dwarf, simply because I like elves... That's what I'm using on Journeys, anyway. Does the game tell you the basic story, or will I have to read up on them on Wikipedia or something if I want to know the difference between City and Dalish elves?

2009-11-27 20:11:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Does the game tell you the basic story, or will I have to read up on them on Wikipedia or something if I want to know the difference between City and Dalish elves?

The game will tell you the basic story. Every background actually has a completely different intro to the game - I don't just mean by cutscene, I mean the story is actually different for you, you're in a different place, you have different missions, and so forth.

You will not need to go to Wikipedia to learn about the background of whichever people you choose.

However, if you really want to know a bit before you make the decision, I could give a vague non-spoiler description of the peoples.

... or you could ask Foofles. I'm sure he has formed some opinions about the difference between City-living elves and the Dalish by now.

2009-11-27 20:14:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Sounds good. From what I gather from your conversation with Foofles, I'm thinking I might go towards a Dalish elf (did I spell that right?) simply because I don't like the sound of a city elf. I might ask him, anyway, just to see what he thinks.

2009-11-27 20:16:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

I'm thinking I might go towards a Dalish elf (did I spell that right?) simply because I don't like the sound of a city elf.

Yes, you spelled that right.

2009-11-27 20:17:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Woot. I couldn't remember if there was a "w" in there or not (I.E. "Dwalish" or "Dalish").

2009-11-27 20:18:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Elves in general are really unliked by humans, apparently.... it's kind of like the Khajiit and Argonians in the elder scrolls series

2009-11-27 20:20:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I always felt bad for the beast races in Elder Scrolls. Especially in Oblivion. Anyway, I don't really mind not being liked by humans.

2009-11-27 20:22:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Yes, the elves are very looked down upon.

The city elves are the elves that have been "assimilated" and live in the cities, while the Dalish elves are the tribes that have managed to avoid assimilation, live by their cultural traditions, practice their religion, and pretty much try to live where the rest of the world can't get them.

Every now and then a City Elf will even try to "escape" and "find the Dalish". Whether or not any have ever been successful is widely unknown.

2009-11-27 20:23:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Yeah, see the Dalish elves just sound more appealing to me for some reason. Would it be totally off-the-wall to make an elf a warrior? The general cliche/stereotype is that they're more suiting to rogue-esque roles.

2009-11-27 20:25:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Would it be totally off-the-wall to make an elf a warrior? The general cliche/stereotype is that they're more suiting to rogue-esque roles.

My fiance' played an elf-warrior. (Not Dalish, admittedly, but an Elf)

It worked pretty good for her.

I see no need to stick with cliche.

2009-11-27 20:26:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Cool, cool. I like to break stereotypes, anyway. Like, if the dwarves could use magic, I'd be a dwarf mage just because no one really does that.

Anyway, thanks for all the advice, Jag. I think I know more or less what I'm going to do once I get the game and now I have a party to go to so I shan't be back with more questions until tomorrow.

2009-11-27 20:27:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Well, I look forward to hearing how your story unfolds.

Please come back and tell us as soon as you begin the game.

2009-11-27 20:28:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Apparently there is some system in place to upload your story to the internet? Anyone try this?

2009-11-27 20:35:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Yes, I have.

It's still in Beta now, so it knows exactly who my character is/was, but it seems to have made up various fake things that have happened to me in the chronology.

IE, things along the line of

1.(Russel saved the cat)
2,(Russel murdered the cat)
3.(Russel gave the cat back to the little girl)
4. (Russel gave a bomb to the little girl and said it was a cat)

That might also have something to do with the fact that I signed up for it after I beat the game? Maybe?

In any case, I wouldn't click on the "story" tab on the site until they get all the bugs fixed, but if you want a place to upload your character just so you can share a picture of him here, I'd love to meet Foofles the Elf.

Let me go grab a link ...

2009-11-27 20:39:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Ok, got the link ... just a warning, it's Beta, the "story" tab may end up giving nonsensical spoilers until they fix part of it, and the forums there are filled with spoilers and children ...

but here you go, if you sign up for it, while I don't recommend YOU at look at the story tab, it would give me and other people here a way of following your adventures without bugging you

which admittedly is pretty cool.

http://social.bioware.com/

EDIT: It also seems to automatically upload screenshots you take to the internet.

2009-11-27 20:44:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

http://social.bioware.com/playerprofile.php?nid=2264378250&game=dragonage1_ps3&display=character&char_id=553660

2009-11-27 21:08:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

http://social.bioware.com/playerprofile.php?nid=2264378250&game=dragonage1_ps3&display=character&char_id=553660

Cool.

Heh ... he looks a little like you do from the Game of the Year edition video.

2009-11-27 21:44:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I still have no idea how to read the codex

2009-11-27 21:51:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

You mean the in game codex? Or something on that website?

2009-11-27 21:54:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

You mean the in game codex? Or something on that website?

The ingame one, I keep saying "Codex updated!"

2009-11-27 21:56:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

If I recall correctly, it's under a "Journal" tab, in a sub-menu kind of where your quest logs are.

It's hard without it right in front of me.

2009-11-27 21:57:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Ah, I'll just poke it at later.. I htink I definitely need a break from it today.

2009-11-27 22:00:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Today I decided that I wanted to be a mage so I made an Elven Mage character named Raul who is super sexy and doesn't afraid of anything.

2009-11-27 22:43:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

Raul is an awesome name.

Question... what happens to that fancy site if you have multiple storylines happening?

2009-11-27 22:52:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Raul is an awesome name.

Question... what happens to that fancy site if you have multiple storylines happening?

I dunno, but my first character doesn't show up on it because he has a naughty name...I think. Either that or it just doesn't work. But come on, now. Is "Fagballs" really that bad of a name?

2009-11-27 22:55:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

Is "########" really that bad of a name?

*sigh*

yes, it is.

2009-11-27 22:57:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Question... what happens to that fancy site if you have multiple storylines happening?

Don't know - but it should be known that some story-beginnings are kind of spoilers for people with different origins.

2009-11-27 23:00:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

aw... but it's from a different point of view yes? I'm actually very curious to see how the city elf starts out as a female......

2009-11-27 23:20:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

aw... but it's from a different point of view yes?

I'm curious as to what you mean ...

I'm actually very curious to see how the city elf starts out as a female......

Ooooh!

Lol, no, I guess that wouldn't spoil anything at all really!

Everything in it would be either something your character either already knows, or something that wouldn't be true in his continuity.

So ... yeah, I guess creating a FEMALE city elf wouldn't spoil anything if you want to.

2009-11-27 23:25:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Mmmm.. well so far I'm enjoying playing as the elf.

2009-11-27 23:28:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

As to the "from a different point of view" thing, perhaps I should extrapolate.

Let's say, just as an example, that one huge part of the story for most people is to solve a murder, while one of the origins stories actually starts you out as the person who is "murdered", but really fakes their own death and returns later to get revenge instead.

This is just an example I made up (is it?) but that's basically what I mean. The origins stories aren't something tacked onto the game, they are already an organic part of the game - all of them. You will "run into" the other origin stories' *story* throughout the game, just without the firsthand knowledge and often as part of a quest-line.

The other origin stories are already a major part of your "main game" - you're just looking from the outside rather than the inside.

2009-11-27 23:33:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Yeah I figure it's something like that, but it's still pretty cool to see things from other perspectives

2009-11-27 23:36:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

True - at the very least it's worth exploring them all after you finish the game and honestly aren't concerned with "spoilers" anymore.

And of course you can still do it even now if you really wish, it's just that it will honestly spoil elements of the story and later missions for you, remove plot-twists and potentially change decisions you would have otherwise made.

It's not like there's program code stopping you from doing it though, it's just like playing the PC version and modding yourself to be invincible ... something not really recommendable. No one will stop you though, of course.

2009-11-27 23:39:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Oh I don't know if I'll do it just yet. But I might end up playing another character in a sense that I'll play with someone else while she works on her character.

2009-11-27 23:47:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Yeah, I did that with my fiance' - assuming I understand what you mean.

She made a character and I watched her intro.

She was/is a Female City Elf Warrior, and I was/am a Dwarven Noble Rogue.

Watching her intro didn't really spoil anything for me, but I'm glad that she didn't watch mine.

It all worked out simply by me staying up all night and rushing ahead of her in terms of gameplay, which tended to make it safe for me to watch her gameplay - at least those parts of her gameplay where I wasn't inevitably sleeping, having been up so late.

2009-11-27 23:50:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I would consider that a spoiler, because it's telling you specifically what to expect in the game.

The same way I would consider it a spoiler if I sat down to a game and someone told me the bosses would consist of 2 ogres, a wolf-cyborg, and then a giant plant-monster at the bottom of an ice cave. It's telling me exactly what to expect, and ruining some of my ability to anticipate what may or may not happen.

If I had heard that before I played the game, it would have lowered my enjoyment of it - not a huge amount, mind you, but lowered it never-the-less, as I would have completely unrealistic, specific knowledge, and lost some of that feeling of genuine contextual world exploration.

I believe one of the genius elements of a game like this that is so fleshed out story wise is your ability to take any element of the lore and potentially anticipate it's inclusion and relevance in the main story. That is not the case when you've specifically defined the limits in the game, as it does effectively the same thing as just stating part of the story - it kills off possibilities from player perspective.

like i said before....i don't understand HOW that is spoiling the game...a spoiler is something that like me saying lando betrays luke in the star wars movie because i just ruined the whole surprise of secrecy...but telling you there are 3 dragons in a game shouldn't take any enjoyment or SPOIL anything because it doesn't...it just doesn't make sense to be spoiled that the game has 3 dragons...that's like me saying mario has more amount of goombas in world 3-2 then in any map...how is that spoiling the game? i don't understand at all my
friend....makes no sense whatsoever

anyways i'm done talking about it since it's confusing me now

anyways my best character is a city elf mage....but to be honest my first true character was a Dalish Elf rogue...i prefer my new elf mage now since my story is so much brighter

also in my team i have assembled i always bring my love interest with me at all times since i would never leave them at camp...couldn't do that...love em too much hehe

now i'm making a casteless dwarf and i'm making it a mission to be the most evil person in the game to see how my story plays out...even tho it will be tough because i take the game seriously sometimes (hate when people hate me in game

makes meh sad) but i'll try and swallow my kindness and go on my mission of destruction

2009-11-28 00:43:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

...how is that spoiling the game?

*takes a deep breath to prepare for long discussion on the nature of player expectations in open-ended, story-oriented interactive fiction* ...

anyways i'm done talking about it since it's confusing me now

...

asking giant questions followed very quickly by a "but let's not talk about it"?

I'm going to assume that's honest, unless it's just rhetorical and you actually do want a response, in which case just let me know.

also in my team i have assembled i always bring my love interest with me at all times since i would never leave them at camp...couldn't do that...love em too much hehe

I think most people, myself included, tend to have a specific "team" of characters they always use - only really deviating when it's required or when they feel the need to bring a certain character along on occasion for story reasons (having the right people with you at the right time does "unlock" stuff on occasion).

i'm making it a mission to be the most evil person in the game

I see.

...

EDIT:

a spoiler is something that like me saying lando betrays luke in the star wars movie

I was about to gasp and fake outrage at your Star Wars spoiler but ... I'm pretty sure that doesn't even happen.

They don't even appear on screen together until Return of the Jedi, I believe.

a city elf mage

I assume you just mean that they at some point lived in the Denerim Alienage in the continuity, rather than "have the city elf background".

2009-11-28 01:31:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I assume you just mean that they at some point lived in the Denerim Alienage in the continuity, rather than "have the city elf background".

no.......dalish elves call you a city elf....and of course they being dalish...would know....-_-;

2009-11-28 05:10:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

no

"No"?

So you are claiming to have actually taken the City Elf Background with a Mage?

.......dalish elves call you a city elf....and of course they being dalish...would know....-_-;

Exactly - which would mean you're not Dalish, which would mean, presumably, you lived in the city at some point in your continuity (presumably before the intro, of course) despite having the mage background ... so "yes".

I believe this is a clear miscommunication, as your entire post makes sense except for it starting with the word "no".

WARNING - SLIGHT, RELATIVELY MINOR SPOILER AHEAD IN AWESOMEMAN'S POST - CONTINUE TO READ THREAD AT OWN RISK.

2009-11-28 07:00:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

seems really good if a goty one comes out with all the dlc i might get it

2009-11-28 08:30:00

Author:
rseah

Posts: 2701

like i said before....i don't understand HOW that is spoiling the game...a spoiler is something that like me saying lando betrays luke in the star wars movie because i just ruined the whole surprise of secrecy...but telling you there are 3 dragons in a game shouldn't take any enjoyment or SPOIL anything because it doesn't...it just doesn't make sense to be spoiled that the game has 3 dragons...that's like me saying mario has more amount of goombas in world 3-2 then in any map...how is that spoiling the game? i don't understand at all my
friend....makes no sense whatsoever

anyways i'm done talking about it since it's confusing me now

anyways my best character is a city elf mage....but to be honest my first true character was a Dalish Elf rogue...i prefer my new elf mage now since my story is so much brighter

also in my team i have assembled i always bring my love interest with me at all times since i would never leave them at camp...couldn't do that...love em too much hehe

now i'm making a casteless dwarf and i'm making it a mission to be the most evil person in the game to see how my story plays out...even tho it will be tough because i take the game seriously sometimes (hate when people hate me in game

makes meh sad) but i'll try and swallow my kindness and go on my mission of destruction

2009-11-28 13:25:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

Anyway, you shouldn't have to worry about people hating you. Morrigan and Sten are huge buttholes and I don't see Zevran caring much about evil decisions, so you could just have those 3 in your party the whole time.

Would it be possible to get that in a spoiler-box? That is a tiny spoiler. Not a huge one, admittedly, but still, you are naming some of the potential companion characters - which is something many people going into the game may very well not want to know.

It's not a huge deal as that only becomes a significant spoiler if you pick up companion characters in a particular order and then use it to deduce something else, or, more relevantly for the time period between meeting one of those characters and actually/potentially recruiting them (Character 1), but it's still courtesy in a thread full of people for who haven't played the game yet.

Most people I know wouldn't want to know who potential companion characters are going into the game ... and even if you disagree and think other people are just spoiler-paranoid, spoiler-paranoid people still shouldn't have the game spoiled for them anymore than anyone else, I'd argue.

Anyways, that annoying rant out of the way, I think ... "DLC companion" ... also wouldn't object to most "brutal" solutions - with one or two notable exceptions.

CASTELESS DWARVES ARE TEH BESTS!

Close enough

... Anyways, this is/was my fiance's character - she went through the game with a City Elf Warrior named Pryn.

http://social.bioware.com/da_game_other/portraits/557000/556904/556904.png

2009-11-28 14:50:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

CASTELESS DWARVES ARE TEH BESTS!

Anyway, you shouldn't have to worry about people hating you. Morrigan and Sten are huge buttholes and I don't see Zevran caring much about evil decisions, so you could just have those 3 in your party the whole time.

meh....problem with that is that to get sten's approval high it takes certain things to do...he is the most difficult to please...and also zevran is a lil you know haha and the last thing i need is him in the back of my team if ya know what i mean haha

but idk ima keep playing around and do what i can...if people end up hating me and decide to leave my party or try to kill me...then so be it....im going to play this one without loading saves unless i die of course...so lets spin this wheel of wonders and see where i end up

2009-11-29 00:29:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

... This thread is going to turn me into one of those grumpy old men if I keep worrying about what people say that might be spoiling.

http://nicolasb.com.ar/archivos/2009/10/grumpy-old-man.jpg
"You darn kids and your spoilers!"

Anyways, interesting factoid: Apparently, based on how Bioware keeps track of our choices ... the LEAST popular starting class is apparently ROGUE, with just under 25% of players starting the game as Rogues.

2009-11-29 01:11:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Just as a question - Is anyone who already beat the game planning on picking up this month's new DLC?

Don't get me wrong, DAO is the absolute best game of the year in my mind, and I can't wait for the next installment ... but that being said, do I really want to go through the new DLC for gear that I presumably won't even get to keep when my character goes onto the next installment?

I mean it's really very cheap for what it is, and if I hadn't already finished the game I would be all over it considering how useful the first 2 pieces of DLC were ... but I'm still not sure whether or not to pick it up given that it is suppose to happen (story-wise) before the (UNDISCLOSED END OF GAME).

2009-11-30 16:57:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I'm probably going to purchase it, Jagrevi. I am really loving this game and the DLC has been good so far. ^_^

Then again, I'm on my second playthrough, so it might be useful to me, no?

2009-11-30 17:14:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

I never buy DLC

I'm very stingy. LBP is the first game I actually bought DLC for.

2009-11-30 17:37:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I'm probably going to purchase it, Jagrevi. I am really loving this game and the DLC has been good so far. ^_^

Then again, I'm on my second playthrough, so it might be useful to me, no?

If you're going through the whole thing again with a second story, then yeah, I guess it would be. I can't bring myself to do that though.

Those first DLC were so good and so worth the small price - it's just that I don't feel right going back into the story before it's end ...

... it feels like revisionist history.

I never buy DLC

I'm very stingy. LBP is the first game I actually bought DLC for.

Noooo. You mean Foofles the City Elf will never have an adventure with the Stone Prisoner?

Lol, you're breaking my heart.

Heh, seriously though, the DLC in the game is a great investment - especially if more than one person will be playing it on the same console.

EDIT: Oh, also, Foofles, while you're here - the other person you mentioned who is going to play on your system ... she wouldn't be planning on running a Human Noble, would she?

I'm just curious - I don't regret going for a Dwarf, but I'd be very interested to follow someone's story on the Bioware Social site who goes Human Noble. There's a particular story element that I'd be curious to see develop from the Human Noble perspective.

2009-11-30 19:15:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Hmm not sure on that. But will take the suggestion to heart

2009-11-30 19:49:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

And both of my characters are named Sara. Yes. i am that boring.

2009-11-30 20:46:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

@jagrevi: Yeah, I wasn't going to do a second playthrough, but I wasn't happy with my first one. I'm trying to make things right. I'm a city elf rogue this time through, and I'm loving it.

Your story turn into a tragedy and you're trying to correct things, huh?

I have to say that definitely has my attention - I'll have go to the Bioware Social site later and find out what happened on your profile (assuming your story tab isn't bugged like mine - it lists me doing things that, without spoiling, are mutually exclusive and out of order last time I checked

).

I have to say I'm interested in this premise (gaming ethics vs. storyline compassion) - it reminds me of something my fiance' admitted last night. She and I have been playing Assassin's Creed while we wait for Mass Effect 2. In the game, there is a distraught mother for whom you can collect feathers scattered around the game-world.

Last night, she admitted that if she can't find them all, she WILL actually look up the locations on the internet (something we would both generally consider a breach of what we would consider our gaming ethics). When I asked her why, she said it was out of concern for the mother.

2009-11-30 21:15:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I actually got a good ending (well, I felt it was a good ending), but I really screwed up some things. I won't go into detail because of spoilers, but I messed up a lot of stuff with Morrigan. I also completely missed two characters, and most of my characters hated me by the end of it.

The moral and ethical decisions are BRUTAL in this game. Like I said, won't go into details, but sometimes I find myself wanting to reload my saves because I've messed something up terribly.

2009-11-30 21:18:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

Well right now I tend to help everyone that asks nicely and am polite to people until they give me a reason to be otherwise... I hope this doesn't bite me in the behind later

2009-11-30 21:24:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I won't go into detail because of spoilers, but I messed up a lot of stuff with (character).

Ah, so you (trusted/didn't-trust/killed/showed-mercy-to/was-too-nice-to/was-too-mean-to/helped/didn't-help) said character, but things ended up horrible and you discovered you actually should have (trusted/not-trusted/killed/showed-mercy-to/been-nice-to/been-mean-to/helped/not-helped), eh?

... yeah, this is too hard to talk about while keeping it generic enough to not spoil anything.

They do a great job with alot of the story development though.

2009-11-30 21:33:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Hah hah, yeah, Jagrevi. Pretty much.

2009-11-30 21:57:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

2009-11-30 22:30:00

Author:
Teebonesy

Posts: 1937

Sounds a bit like my experiences in Fallout. After trying several times I eventually concluded that there IS NO HAPPY ENDING to the Tenpenny Tower quest. No matter which way you slice it, there will either be copious amounts of prejudice or copious amounts of blood. Which would YOU rather have?

I was thinking of this very moment when this subject started - I just didn't bring it up because I didn't want to spoil it for anyone who maybe didn't get around to playing that game yet.

But yes, since you've already brought it up ...

*FALLOUT 3 Spoiler Warning*

I love that in Fallout 3.

Everyone I know who played that game got "suckered in by that". For everyone who doesn't know, there's a tower hotel in the world that is still somewhat intact. However, those who have been mutated/disfigured by the radiation are *not* allowed in the tower. They are thought of as monsters, despite their constantl requests for safe haven in the tower.

The tower residents come off as such fearful bigots, and you feel compassion for the ghouls. You let them in though, and then the next time you're back there ... it turns out they DID slaughter everyone.

I absolutely love that the game did that - it used narrative presumptions and modern zeitgeist to it's own advantage to manipulate the player. Having your expectations played on in interactive fiction is just one of the most fun experiences in gaming, in my opinion.

I'm hesitant to pick up dragon age because I don't know if it's a good idea to begin the dive into a 100+ hour rpg epic.

...

Anyway. I haven't played Dragon Age.

...

Wow, Dragon Age!

I highly recommend it.

2009-11-30 22:38:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I went ahead and booted up a game development ethics thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=19356) if anyone's interested.

Fallout 3 was just FULL of moral grey zones. If you're playing as a "good" character, doing everything to get POSITIVE karma, you're still going to slaughter and kill countless human beings throughout the game in the process. Sometimes it's mercy killing. Other times it's just cold-blooded murder. And this is by playing as the GOOD guy. the fact that any character in the game can be killed and the game continues is pretty amazing, and considerably raises the stakes. You never know what's going to happen. The repercussions from your decisions at times could be catastrophic. With Tenpenny Tower being I think the most overt example of this. I'm not kidding when I say that my JAW DROPPED when I went into Tenpenny to check in on the residents a day or so after doing that mission.

2009-11-30 22:47:00

Author:
Teebonesy

Posts: 1937

well they say they are supporting this game for 2 years worth of DLC...so if you aren't going to purchase any....pretty much you will be outta the loop when the sequel comes out and wonder why everyone has bad*ss armor and weapons and you still have the jug set and such...

suffice to say i will probably purchase ALL DLC for this game when i can since i love the game and i want to dabble myself in their world and understand it more...only problem i have with the whole game in general was not being able to be a dalish mage...and there not being dark elves...but i'll live

plus with the new DLC comes new and cooler looking equipment, weapons, etc. and maybe new gameplay devices to switch things up like how soldiers peek was

anyways DLC is great...i'd say buy it if you enjoy what these guys are making and want them to make more of it

2009-11-30 22:55:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

you will be outta the loop when the sequel comes out

I don't think the sequel's storyline will depend on you having gone through post-release DLC to make sense.

wyou will be outta the loop when the sequel comes out and wonder why everyone has bad*ss armor and weapons and you still have the jug set and such...

I know we get to keep our characters ... I don't believe it was ever guaranteed we'd get to keep our GEAR.

It's certainly possible, but I would consider it a little unlikely, honestly - although the true test of the idea will probably be to see how this issue is handled in Mass Effect 2 next month.

Plus, I'm a Bard ... I finished the game in stylish purple Drakeskin.

anyways DLC is great...

Agreed.

i'd say buy it if you enjoy what these guys are making and want them to make more of it

Something to keep in mind at the very least, definitely.

2009-12-01 05:40:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

well let's hope they do allow you to keep your gear....maybe make it less effective in the new game or maybe make enemies tougher or something to help balance it out....only because i want to take my special armor set that i have (thanks tohttp://social.bioware.com/images/game2web/achievements/ACH_FEAT_DRAGONSLAYER.png )

2009-12-01 07:03:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

seems like there is going to be lots of dlc for this

i probably will buy it when a goty or something comes out that includes some of it

i don't like buying dlc

2009-12-01 08:11:00

Author:
rseah

Posts: 2701

well let's hope they do allow you to keep your gear....maybe make it less effective in the new game or maybe make enemies tougher or something to help balance it out....only because i want to take my special armor set that i have

Ah yes, that armor.

In my case, that armor is in the possession of (unsaid possible companion character who starts out as a Beserker).

... I have a feeling I won't be getting it back regardless ...

i probably will buy it when a goty or something comes out that includes some of it

Honestly, I'm rather skeptical that there will be a special edition release as you've outlined.

i don't like buying dlc

And you play LBP?

2009-12-01 16:59:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Alright. I started playing last night. Played for about 2 hours, but it felt like about 10 minutes. The only reason I'm not on right now is that I'm trying to work out this stupid Bioware social site. I've signed up and everything, and it looks like I've found my character page, but sadly since I haven't done much, it just has my level-up times on there. Here (http://social.bioware.com/playerprofile.php?char_id=615706&nid=2269093768&game=ps3&display=character) it is, anyway.

2009-12-01 20:34:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Hmmm, I'm wondering if the BiowareSocial site is on the fritz again.

Foofles + Dandygandy ... have you two simply not gotten back to the game in a while, or is the Bioware site not updating?

I'm hope it's not just broken again.

Anyways, main reason for post ... just found out that there will actually be an expansion of Dragon Age Journeys on its way soon as well.

2009-12-02 16:12:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I haven't played the game in a couple days but I did play it last night

It does seem a little off though...
I had just survived the attack at the tower of the ishal and I now have Morrigan in my party. She's hot

2009-12-02 16:18:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I haven't played the game in a couple days but I did play it last night

It does seem a little off though...

Ok, but that not being on the site may just be attributable to a little "updating lag" ... hopefully.

2009-12-02 16:25:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I've been having a really hard time uploading my stuff from the game to the bioware site. I get logged out every two seconds, it seems. Also, my character's picture didn't upload, nor did anything from my new character.

2009-12-02 16:50:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

2009-12-02 16:52:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

yeah it's a shame since my characters won't update at all...but we have to remember that it's still in the BETA stage like it states so we can't expect everything already fixed for us...but hopefully they find a fix for the uploaded characters and stuff soon

*nods*

I guess it's nothing more than is to be expected, Beta and all.

Still, I would hope that it get's fully up and running by the end of next month, as I would like to make use of the site for my Mass Effect 2 Shepard.

Starting up the next game in a series should be getting data from the previous game's Epilogue Save, not it's online social profile though, so worse come to worse, it's not like the social site is so necessary.

2009-12-02 17:22:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Gonna play it a bit now

Really though, why aren't there more girls that look and dress like her where I live?

2009-12-02 18:06:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

What do you mean? I'm dressed like Morrigan right now. Wait, no, I'm not.

I actually don't like her character, because she acts like one of my female friends who is EXTREMELY mean to me. lol.

2009-12-02 18:36:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

Really though, why aren't there more girls that look and dress like her where I live?

Because you don't live in the Kocari Wilds? (spelling may be wrong)

Anyways, as a side question ... what are people's favorite specializations for each base-class?

2009-12-02 19:04:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Not sure if this is a spoiler...

Doggy! I love my doggy! I named him Tiger after my real life yorkie

2009-12-02 19:12:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Not sure if this is a spoiler...

Doggy! I love my doggy! I named him Tiger after my real life yorkie

Yeah ... I like that one.

Pretty tough too.

2009-12-02 19:29:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

My characters haven't even been uploaded. I figured my second character should upload, but he didn't. Maybe it's because my first character had a naughty name?

http://social.bioware.com/playerprofile.php?sku=dragonage1_ps3&nid=2263479619

2009-12-02 23:04:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

Yeah, that Bioware site just isn't working. I'm up to level 6 by now but it still says I'm level 2! Anyway, I have a question to posit to you all you. I'll stick it in spoilers to be safe.

What is your take on what Duncan did to Ser Jorsin? By which I mean, do you think he was right to kill him when he wouldn't drink the blood or no? I think that, while it was pretty extreme killing him, there wasn't much other choice for Duncan. He said himself, there was no turning back. And if Jorsin wasn't brave enough to drink the blood, he didn't deserve to be a Grey Warden.

2009-12-02 23:17:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

What is your take on what Duncan did to Ser Jorsin? By which I mean, do you think he was right to kill him when he wouldn't drink the blood or no? I think that, while it was pretty extreme killing him, there wasn't much other choice for Duncan. He said himself, there was no turning back. And if Jorsin wasn't brave enough to drink the blood, he didn't deserve to be a Grey Warden.

He pulled out his sword and was about to charge Duncan... even if nothing else, Duncan had to defend himself. Still feel bad for him though.

2009-12-02 23:29:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

The following spoilers relate to the first 5 hours of the game ... just as a measurement for people to know whether or not to read this conversation.

What is your take on what Duncan did to Ser Jorsin? By which I mean, do you think he was right to kill him when he wouldn't drink the blood or no? I think that, while it was pretty extreme killing him, there wasn't much other choice for Duncan. He said himself, there was no turning back. And if Jorsin wasn't brave enough to drink the blood, he didn't deserve to be a Grey Warden.

Changed my response upon reflection....

After re-watching the scene on youtube, Foofles is right, he did draw his weapon first...

2009-12-02 23:30:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Also, after having to respond twice to Dandygandy's question (watched the scene on youtube and it went down slightly differently than I had recalled) ...

... I think i will get this month's new DLC despite having already beaten the game. Just to get in the game for a bit again without having to wait for the sequel. It's specifically set up so you can play this one after the game's end, and the previous bits of DLC were so worth the cost that I really do think I should go for it. I mean, it costs less than your average lunch.

EDIT: Admittedly, I wish it had been out BEFORE I finished the game, but better late than never.

2009-12-02 23:38:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Anyway, one thing I find cool is that you can actually give gifts to your party members. In case anyone didn't know how to do it at first, I just discovered by accident:

In your inventory menu there's a tab for "other" and some objects are listed as "gifts", and you can choose to give it to the currently selected character. It may or may not raise his or her disposition towards you.

I feel kind of moop that the DLC cards were already used up when I got my copy, but they do say "available with NEW RETAIL PURCHASE" on the back ... it's ok, I got the game in a buy 2 get 1 free deal.

I may yet get the DLC later on.

2009-12-02 23:41:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

In your inventory menu there's a tab for "other" and some objects are listed as "gifts", and you can choose to give it to the currently selected character. It may or may not raise his or her disposition towards you.

It may even open up new content, if you give the right people exactly the right gifts ...

I may yet get the DLC later on.

If you do get it, at least the 2 that are out right now, I'd actually just go get them right now.

I don't want to be too specific/spoilery ... but

1) It may end up saving you from a specific headache in some gameplay element, which may save you a lot of wasted gold in the long run

and the bigger one ...

2) Given that it does contain one or more potential party members, getting it too late may (depending on what you've already done) make some tiny part of the content obsolete.

Here's what I mean. Sometimes, there are specific story events/missions that are only triggered if you have a particular character in your party at a relevant time. Like say, Bill the Lumberjack is in your party when you go to the Lumberjack convention.

Of course, if you don't get Bill the Lumberjack until after the Lumberjack convention is over, you'll never get some special mission from him. The one where he's at the convention and is challenged to eat the most pancakes and tells you about his magical maple syrup that he left in his cabin that blah blah blah.

Just like giving people certain gifts, just having them with you at the right time and/or saying the right thing to them can do big things, unlock new stuff, and, directly or indirectly, even change the eventual outcome of the story.

And I am thinking of at least one specific thing that branches off from one of the DLC, yeah.

2009-12-02 23:48:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Ah, I see. Yeah I figure it'd work like that, just like in all Bioware games... it really makes you think about who you bring with you.

2009-12-02 23:53:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Ah, I see. Yeah I figure it'd work like that, just like in all Bioware games... it really makes you think about who you bring with you.

Yeah ... there's really not much I can say without spoiling anything, but if someone is even remotely curious about the DLC, I highly recommend not only getting it right away, but even *doing* it right away, as opposed to saving it till later.

In the end, getting DLC is something that ultimately the player must decide if they want, but I'd compare the value of some of the DLC in DOA to the value of some particular DLC packs in LBP ... the good ones. More than well worth it.

And also, yes, party selection is sometimes one of the biggest choices ... which is probably why most people select there parties based on story rather than based soley on strength.

2009-12-02 23:56:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Yeah, that Bioware site just isn't working. I'm up to level 6 by now but it still says I'm level 2!

... yep, 3 hours later ... still lists you as level 2

oh well

Anyways, Party Make Up.

I'm curious what people's typical ("main") parties are, assuming you have one particular set of 3 characters you take as your main one.

My typical party consisted of ... (Actually "leveled-up-in", primary specilializations in bold)

a Bard/Duelist
a Beserker/Champion
a Shapeshifter/Spirit-Healer
and a Warrior with a Special Class
"Golem"

2009-12-03 02:41:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I haven't gotten to the point where I get into the specializations yet

But I will typically have a warrior as a tank and everyone else on DPS... haven't actually gotten into healing magic yet, I just make everyone drink a health potion if they get low ... my only mage hasn't even levelled up yet.

I really like the "select entire party" feature, and then using hte radial menu, make them all focus on guy at a time. Otherwise the AI will all go their own ways and we all die...

2009-12-03 04:16:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I haven't gotten to the point where I get into the specializations yet

But I will typically have a warrior as a tank and everyone else on DPS...

So presumably one warrior (or special tank equivalent) and the rest Melee-Rogues, Mages, and/or DPS-heavy special characters...

How would you assess (character you mentioned really liking earlier that has a special class)? Taking the tank role or a DPS role?

2009-12-03 04:33:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I put her on DPS. Partly because I love her outfit and refuse to give her armor...

2009-12-03 04:38:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I put her on DPS. Partly because I love her outfit and refuse to give her armor...

Uhm ... I think we're talking about different characters

I mean the shorter one.

2009-12-03 04:39:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Uhm ... I think we're talking about different characters

Heh possibly

Oh... him/her/it.. I think I get it now.

He's on DPS/tank, his howling seems to come in handy, he's a vicious little melee beast.

Or am I still off?!

2009-12-03 04:39:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Or am I still off?!

Heh, no, that's the one I was talking about. lol.

If you're still up for being interrogated (I enjoy this game way too much) ...

Since you're using the first character you thought I meant as DPS, if that means Primal spells (not that you couldn't make an argument for some non-primal focuses for DPS), which of the following 4 Primal spells is more up your alley? (Again, not that you even have to take any level 4 Primal Spell - just call it a hypothetical)

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/6/64/Spell-Inferno_icon.pngInferno

* Requires: 34 Magic
* Type: Activated
* Range: Medium
* Casting: Medium
* Costs
o Activation: 70.0
o Cooldown (s): 60.0
* Effects
o Fire Damage: (100.0 + Spellpower) * 0.4
+ At Intervals (s, s): 4.0, 30.0

The caster summons a huge column of swirling flame. All targets in the area take constant fire damage as they burn. Friendly fire possible.

http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/0/0a/Spell-Petrify_icon.png Petrify

* Requires: 30 Magic
* Type: Activated
* Range: Medium
* Casting: Fast
* Costs
o Activation: 40.0
o Cooldown (s): 40.0
* Effects
o Duration (s): 20.0

The caster draws from knowledge of the elements to turn the target into stone unless it passes a physical resistance check. While petrified, the target is immobile and vulnerable to shattering from a critical hit. Creatures already made of stone are immune.

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/f/f9/Spell-ChainLightning_icon.png Chain Lightning

* Requires: 33 Magic
* Type: Activated
* Range: Medium
* Casting: Medium
* Costs
o Activation: 60.0
o Cooldown (s): 60.0
* Effects
o Electrical Damage: 20.0 / (Target Number)

The caster's hands erupt, emitting a bolt of lightning that inflicts electricity damage on a target, then forks, sending smaller bolts jumping to those nearby, which fork again. Each fork does less damage than the previous. Friendly fire possible.

http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/e/e4/Spell-Blizzard_icon.png Blizzard

* Requires: 34 Magic
* Type: Activated
* Range: Medium
* Casting: Fast
* Costs
o Activation: 70.0
o Cooldown (s): 60.0
* Effects
o Cold Damage (over duration, applied at intervals): (100.0 + Spellpower) * 0.1
+ At Intervals (s, s): 2.05, 30.0
# Over Duration (s): 1.5
o Freeze
+ Duration (adjusted for target rank, s): 20.0
o Movement Speed Penalty (%)
+ Friendly Targets (%): 50.0
+ Enemy Targets (%): 20.0
o Defense Bonus: 10.0
o Fire Resistance Bonus: 50.0
o Overall Duration (s): 30.0

An ice storm deals continuous cold damage to everyone in the targeted area and slows their movement speed while granting bonuses to defense and fire resistance. Targets can fall or be frozen solid unless they pass a physical resistance check. Friendly fire possible.

2009-12-03 04:49:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Hmmm on an impulse I think I'll go with blizzard for a few reasons...

Quick casting, ok damage, and it gives the bonus of slowing movement with a chance to freeze solid. Seems like a good SHTF move.

2009-12-03 04:56:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Hmmm, I see, I see ... ... ...

Lol, ok, I've bugged you enough for now.

EDIT: Oop, got some of the numbers wrong - in case it makes a difference... fixed.

2009-12-03 04:58:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Hmmm something that caught my eye on blizzard now... "Defense bonus" ... what does that mean? The spell will make its targets more resistant to attack?

2009-12-03 05:07:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Hmmm something that caught my eye on blizzard now... "Defense bonus" ... what does that mean? The spell will make its targets more resistant to attack?

Yes, that is correct.

2009-12-03 05:08:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

2009-12-03 05:22:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Now that is an interesting feature... so it's more for the crowd control then? ... hmmm... I might have to ponder between that and inferno... Interesting, this game makes you think very carefully about your choices....

Yes, Blizzard is more crowd control utility/support.

Inferno is more mass-DPS style, if you go for fire spells rather than cold.

2009-12-03 05:24:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Yeah that's what it seems. That was the main reason I picked it over inferno at first. To keep advancing crowds at bay while my tank(s) deal with the front lines.

I guess it would really boil down to the mage's role in the party. If you need the mass DPS from inferno or not. It seems like a nice way to get rid of tons of incoming weak enemies.

One catch on both though is the friendly fire.

2009-12-03 05:27:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

One catch on both though is the friendly fire.

True ... which is one of the unfortunate things about level 4 Primal Spells. (except Petrify)

Of course you don't have to go up Primal Spells when you level up, you could always go up one of the Entropy or Spirit magic types and still be aggressive.

For example, if you go up the Drain Life magic row in entropy, you do eventually get things like Death Cloud http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/7/72/Spell-DeathCloud_icon.png

* Activated
* Range: Medium
* Activation: 50.0
* Cooldown (s): 60.0
* Requires: 34 Magic
* Spirit Damage (applied at every interval): (100.0 + Spellpower) * 0.1
o Interval (s): 2.0
* Duration (s): 30.0

The caster summons a cloud of leeching entropic energy that deals continuous spirit damage to all who enter.

And Entropy has some mass enemy-targeting spells that DON'T have friendly fire, like

My fiance was a big fan of Spirit Magic.

http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/e/e0/Spell-WakingNightmare_icon.png Waking Nightmare

* Activated
* Range: Medium
* Activation: 40.0
* Cooldown (s): 40.0
* Requires: 32 Magic
* Duration (s): 20.0

Hostile targets are trapped in a waking nightmare unless they pass a mental resistance check. They are randomly stunned or attack other enemies for the duration of the effect. Sleeping enemies cannot resist. No Friendly Fire.

EDIT:

I guess it would really boil down to the mage's role in the party. If you need the mass DPS from inferno or not. It seems like a nice way to get rid of tons of incoming weak enemies.

True, in a game where... ...you're going around setting up an army to battle another army... ...too.

2009-12-03 05:34:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

my opinion...blizzard is one of the best...because regardless of the friendly fire issue...if you focus on what it does to the baddies...it's useful to have when you consider that most of the time the spell freezes your enemies thereby making their movements cease for the time being...very useful when surrounded

2009-12-03 05:53:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

blizzard

Between blizzard and Inferno? (assuming you haven't taken every level 4 spell

)

I honestly don't know personally, because I've never had someone in my party with Inferno. I've had it used against me though.

2009-12-03 05:57:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

... did the site just go down for everyone for like an hour?

Anyways, here's an interesting thought that just came to me...

(A Brief Analysis of The Direction Foofles Seems to Be Heading)

As (said character) levels up, once they get an option to take a specialization, there are only 3 real options (as they already start with one - and one that admittedly doesn't so much GO with any spell-makeup more than REPLACE them if you choose to go that way)

So that leaves 3 specializations ...

Spirit-Healer
Arcane Warrior
Blood Mage

Now, if he does intend on giving her an aggressive/DPS build as he mentioned, that would seem to be leaning more toward the latter two, and not so much the first choice.

Furthermore, given that Arcane Warrior is a specialization devoted to covering up the character in gear ... something in earlier comments tells me Foofles won't jumping at the bit for that one.

Which would seem to imply that if he continues with this party member, this character's ideal destiny as he wants her would seem to be ... Blood Mage.

Which, if I'm right, I would be very curious as to what choices he would make to pursue this for her to keep her in top form for this role ...

(Once again, please no spoilers on the various possible ways any given specialization can be unlocked)

Of course, I could be wrong and he could end up just leveling her shapeshifter ... but a class that changes her into a different physical form, once again, based on his comments, seems an unlikely choice for him I feel.

This is all just my idle speculation though...

Anyways ... Foofles, keep us informed. We do love a good story.

2009-12-03 07:49:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Taking that to an extreme

2009-12-03 15:39:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Taking that to an extreme

I was just playing Bloodmage's Advocate for a moment.

I've actually been considering the shapeshifting, it seems like a very ... unorthodox power. I don't think I've even gained a single level with her so I haven't even had to give her new skills or talents yet. Hopefully by then I'll have a decision, I'll just have to experiment with her in combat and see which is best.

Considering leveling her up in Shapeshifting, eh?

I have to admit, the 3rd Shapeshifting ability is a bit intruiging.

http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/d/db/Spell-FlyingSwarm_icon.png Flying Swarm

* Required Level: 10
* Cost: 0
* Upkeep: 30
* Fatigue: 5
* Range: No
* Cooldown (sec): 60
* Area of Effect (ft): 0

The shapeshifter?s body explodes into a swarm of stinging insects that inflict nature damage on nearby foes, with the damage increasing based on the caster?s spellpower. While in this form, the caster gains Divide the Swarm, and any damage the shapeshifter suffers is drawn from mana instead of health. The swirling cloud of insects is immune to normal missiles and has a very good chance of evading physical attacks but is very vulnerable to fire. With Master Shapeshifter, the character gains health whenever the swarm inflicts damage.

I think the really relevant parts of that are ...

1) As opposed to the Primal Spells mentioned earlier, this is a mass-attack that specifically targets enemies with no friendly fire.

2) While it's in use, it also happens to make the character immune to missile fire, plus "mostly" immune to physical attacks.

3) If you go all the way up Shapeshifter, it simultaneously heals you as you go to town on them.

... it honestly does seem like a very interesting alternative to the usual flame and cold magics.

I'll just have to experiment with her in combat and see which is best.

Just don't forget about all the things she doesn't have to experiment *with* yet until you take them.

2009-12-03 15:58:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Oooo That looks like an awesome power! I always love shapeshifting and animal centric roles in these sorts of games. It's way different than the usual elemental mage that's in every single RPG.

2009-12-03 16:24:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Oooo That looks like an awesome power! I always love shapeshifting and animal centric roles in these sorts of games. It's way different than the usual elemental mage that's in every single RPG.

Ah, that may explain your interest in ranger as well.

There are alot of cool things you could do with a Shapeshifter if that's your interest.

Assuming you suit her out for the obvious highest bonus, +Nature Damage (what Shapeshifting deals, so, obviously), there's a bunch of other really cool stuff she could take too (since she can't put every level into Shapeshifting)

Some options ...

Summoning Magics (Under "Creation" Spells)

Not only is the Level 4 Summoning Magic Spell a direct Nature-Damage dealer (http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/1/1e/Spell-StingingSwarm_icon.png) ... there is a huge amount of extra synergy taking this row with ...

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/8/8f/Spell-Spellbloom_icon.png Spellbloom

* Activated
* Range: Medium
* Activation: 25.0
* Cooldown (s): 30.0
* Requires: 23 Magic
* Mana Regeneration Bonus (exploration and combat, per s): 3.0
* Duration (s): 20.0

The caster creates an energizing bloom of magic that grants anyone nearby, friend or foe, a bonus to mana regeneration.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The huge synergy here being that when in your animal form and you take damage from your mana instead of your health, you now get your mana right back. That honestly seems like it has alot of potential, but it's not your only damage for a mage spec'd for nature damage.

Death Magics (Under "Spirit" Spells)

This is kind of a secret/hidden row for Nature-based mages, as most people seem to skim through it assuming that it deals Spirit damage ... but really it's dealing NATURE damage, with spells like this ...

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/0/09/Virulent_walking_bomb.JPGVirulent Walking Bomb

* Activated
* Range: Medium
* Activation: 40.0
* Cooldown (s): 40.0
* Requires: 25 Magic
* Spirit Damage (over time): (100.0 + Spellpower) * 1.5
* Duration (s): 20.0

The caster magically injects a target with corrosive poison that inflicts continual nature damage. If the target dies while the effect is still active, it explodes, damaging nearby targets and possibly infecting them in turn. Although this spell is related to Walking Bomb, the magic behind the two interacts; a target cannot be infected with both.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Not to mention, that as far as extra synergy goes, if you go for the turning into a swarm of wasps, summoning creatures with ranger type "swarming" strategy, some people might make the argument that Animate Dead (http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/7/72/Animate_dead.JPG) helps this even more, as any mass-buffing effects that you utilize in a strategy like this are even more useful when your increasing your party count even further by controlling your dead enemies as well.

On top of all that, going back to the same concept as Spellbloom, Death Magic has a great spell in

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/f/ff/Death_syphon.JPG Death Syphon

* Sustained
* Range: Personal
* Upkeep: 45.0
* Fatigue (%): 5.0
* Cooldown (s): 10.0
* Requires: 20 Magic
* Mana Absorption (per corpse, once every interval if a corpse is within range): (100.0 + Spellpower) * 0.08
o Interval (s): 2.0

While this mode is active, the caster draws in nearby entropic energy, draining residual power from any dead enemy nearby to restore the caster's mana.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once again, a row that not only has the spells that will be most effective for a Shapeshifter equipped to deal the most it can (+Nature Damage), but that has even further synergy with Shapeshifter with some ridiculous effects.

Earth Magics (Under "Primal" Spells)

This one is kind of the basic, standard of Nature Magic rows. It's still a solid-enough option if you want to go with a more classic magic type for a Shapeshifter, but won't really come with as many bells and whistles.

It does still have some nifty spells, however.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/4/4c/Spell-Stonefist_icon.pngStonefist

* Requires: 18 Magic
* Type: Activated
* Range: Medium
* Casting: Fast
* Costs
o Activation: 30.0
o Cooldown (s): 15.0
* Effects
o Nature Damage: (100.0 + Spellpower) * 0.3

The caster hurls a stone projectile that knocks down the target and inflicts nature damage, possibly shattering those that have been petrified or frozen solid.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's dealing the right kind of damage that you'll be setting up to get the bonuses in, it hits (potentially) more than one enemy at a pretty high damage rating, and in the right situations - like against an enemy who you've cast Petrify (http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/dragonage/images/0/0a/Spell-Petrify_icon.png) on - also in the same row - it can get some nice automatic effects off.

So again, alot of options for a viable Shapeshifter build.

... or you could always just go Blood Mage.

...

... no?

... Heh. Well, I tried.

2009-12-03 19:36:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

The following spoilers relate to the first 5 hours of the game ... just as a measurement for people to know whether or not to read this conversation.

Changed my response upon reflection....

After re-watching the scene on youtube, Foofles is right, he did draw his weapon first...
Yeah, I guess he did. I kinda forgot that. Hate to think what would have happened if Duncan hadn't killed him... Not that Duncan had a particularly long time to live after that scene anyway, but whatever.Gotta love spoiler tags.

Anyway, yeah, I played more yesterday (durr) and I got to the party's camp the first time before stopping. I talked to Alistar (I prolly spelled that one wrong...) a bit and it turns out his backstory is really interesting. Props to Bioware for making characters believable.

2009-12-03 20:28:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Hey Dandy.

Any thoughts on what specializations you might go after for your character?

2009-12-03 20:39:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I really like the possibilities opened up there Jag

thanks a lot

2009-12-03 21:00:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I really like the possibilities opened up there Jag

thanks a lot

Np. I'm just really curious about the choices people make in the game. (Which should be obvious by now.)

Honestly, if Bioware just released all their data about how many people made any given choice ... I'd honestly spend all day reading it.

2009-12-03 21:05:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Wow, this thread exploded since the last time I was here.

Since you guys are talking about specializations, do you guys have any suggestions for me? I'm a rogue and I am a bard so far, but I am unsure what to choose as my second specialization. Thoughts/Feelings?

2009-12-03 21:05:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

2009-12-03 21:06:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I prefer Melee, to be perfectly honest, although I'm finding with the Rogue I'm having a hard time just charging into things. My character is a loooot weaker than my warrior was. I can't very easily charge into a pack of darkspawn anymore.

Edit: Also, Jagrevi, or anyone else, for that matter... do you have any information about Gifts you can give your party members? I found a guide online, but there are many things missing. I found something in the dwarven town and couldn't figure out who to give it to.

2009-12-03 21:07:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

I prefer Melee, to be perfectly honest, although I'm finding with the Rogue I'm having a hard time just charging into things. My character is a loooot weaker than my warrior was.

Well typically a Rogue is either a major damage dealer (Assassin) or is a part support character (Bard).

Typically if you were Melee, I would suggest either Assassin or Duelist, as they are immensely good Melee specializations for doing enormous amounts of damage.

However, give that you mentioned you're going down too quickly, that leads me to believe that you don't have a good enough tank with you who is able to taunt/draw the enemies attention.

Melee Rogues are amazing damage dealers ... they're not great damage *takers*.

On top of this, you said you were a Bard. Now, I ran a bard, but I took archery for further utility support, and to keep away from the front lines. If you're already up there in the front, what we need is something that will have synergy with bard, and also ideally take the heat off you.

My suggestion ... Ranger. Summoning an extra ally may help decrease the chance that any particular enemy swing is headed in your direction, plus you'll get some extra mileage out of your bard songs as you'll have even more allies to receive the benefit.

Now Duelist is usually a great option, but it's mostly through stances (which you can't use at the same time you're singing a bard song). Similarly, Assassin is also an amazing specialization ... but not usually for bards. The last thing it sounds like YOU need is to be dealing a massive blow to draw even more attention to yourself.

I'd go Ranger.

EDIT: In short, usually I'd recommend Bards be archers and Melee Rogues go for Assassin and Duelist skills ... but I think a Bard/Ranger Melee Rogue might be pull-offable, since you're already a bard - and admittedly, some people don't want such non-DPS characters as archers around. Going with this strategy, it might not be a bad idea to pick up things like the Death Magic row for your mage ... animating dead (as zombines and/or ghosts, I'm not sure) could push this strategy even further by getting even MORE mileage out of Bard and putting even MORE bodies up there to take blows for you.

2009-12-03 21:16:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Random question: How do I actually use poisons? I keep seeing "weapons coated with this poison will... such and such" and how do I actually do that? ha

2009-12-03 21:23:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

@ xkappax

Added an "EDIT" to the post above that wasn't as much of a rant, where if you're going Bard/Ranger, I also note how taking Death Magic would help the strategy EVEN MORE.

Edit: Also, Jagrevi, or anyone else, for that matter... do you have any information about Gifts you can give your party members? I found a guide online, but there are many things missing. I found something in the dwarven town and couldn't figure out who to give it to.

Could you put it in a spoiler so we know what you're talking about?

Random question: How do I actually use poisons? I keep seeing "weapons coated with this poison will... such and such" and how do I actually do that? ha

During combat, use it like it was a potion or a balm.

2009-12-03 21:26:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Thought so, thanks!

2009-12-03 21:29:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

No Problem.

2009-12-03 21:30:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Just a FURTHER clarification that probably doesn't even need to be said.

When I suggested that if you (xkappax) go with Ranger on your character to consider a specific magic type as well ... that is of course assuming you run a mage in your party.

I realize YOU don't have spells.

EDIT: And now that I think about it - technically Blood Magic would have the same synergy here. Not that I'm suggesting anything ...

2009-12-03 21:39:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I really wish my story page would update, I just had a nice development with a party member

Kissy kissy with Morrigan! Whoo!

2009-12-03 22:32:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

I really wish my story page would update, I just had a nice development with a party member

Kissy kissy with Morrigan! Whoo!

Lol, congratulations.

(Thanks for the update though in all seriousness, I also really wish those pages would work)

2009-12-03 22:55:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I wish my real life relationships would work as well... everytime I said something stupid to her I could just reload my save... but in reality our choices stick... le sigh...

Oh well

Off to explore the rest of the world, especially with my freshly enchanted swords... lightning damage! For no particular reason, the best runes I had looted at the time.

2009-12-04 00:05:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

ranger is a good class...especially since it can add a 5th party member to your group whenever needed...i HIGHLY recommend it for those who are like me and LOVE summoning and such....also when you reach the master grade you get upgraded versions of those animals you summon....like a normal wolf will be a blight wolf and such...a really good specialization if you ask me

2009-12-04 00:08:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

Hey Dandy.

Any thoughts on what specializations you might go after for your character?

Psh, no way. We just made it to a certain town with a certain Arl, and it still seems really early to be thinking about that. Not to mention I haven't unlocked any warrior specializations yet. Templars are out because, well, they're lame. I might go blood mage because I think it contrasts nicely with my elven origin (again, breaking those stereotypes). I can't remember the other two, but I might go for one of them.

2009-12-04 01:05:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

I might go blood mage because I think it contrasts nicely with my elven origin (again, breaking those stereotypes). I can't remember the other two, but I might go for one of them.

I assume you mean Reaver, as opposed to Blood Mage (Blood Mage being a *Mage* Specialization).

Blood Mages are Mages that, through pact with a spirit, both use blood (presumably their own ... "presumably") as a source of power, and gain the ability to "control the blood of others" (control people). This tends to be an art form most commonly seen by fugitive Apostates who have escaped the Templars, or by mages from lands who regulate the use of blood magic instead of outright condemning it.

Reavers are sort of their Warrior equivalant, at least from a lore stand-point. Reavers, again through a connection with a spirit, are able to use "the essence of death" as a fuel of sorts. These warriors tend to be parts of various smaller religious groups, or "cults". Your demon cults, your dragon cults, what-have-you.

Also, while Blood Magic focuses alot on turning someone's HP into Mana, the Reaver class' first level skill, for example, heals you just by being in the proximity of a fallen enemy - or enemies for even greater static health-regeneration.

2009-12-04 01:33:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Thanks for the advice, Jagrevi. I played a bit tonight, but my husband has stolen the game off of me, so I won't get to play it again until tomorrow morning. From reading this thread I understand how things work a bit better, and now I can work towards the specialization you suggested.

I'll put the next stuff in spoiler tags. This is concerning the Gift that I wasn't sure who it went to:
I can't remember the full title of the gift, but it's the "something skyball" Replace something with whatever the actual adjective is. I have no idea how to give it to.

Also, Foofles, I understand what you mean about the thing not updating. I had a lot of relationship development with a certain character and none of it updated for me, either.

2009-12-04 04:12:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

I can't remember the full title of the gift, but it's the "something skyball" Replace something with whatever the actual adjective is. I have no idea how to give it to.

Yeah ... I don't know who to give that too either.

2009-12-04 04:46:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Hey - it updated Dandygandy's profile page. It lists him as lvl 6 now.

2009-12-04 20:57:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Hey yeah, I think it updated mine correctly now too!

The game is really starting to tickle my paranoia though.

2009-12-04 21:27:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Yeah, I meant a Reaver, Jag. I haven't really looked at the specializations, just read the descriptions so I mixed up the names. My bad. Anyway, I'm in need of advice. Here comes the spoiler box.

So, basically, I'm gallivanting through Redcliffe Castle, everything is fine and dandy, though I'm having some trouble with fights. No big deal, right? Well, I hop out into the courtyard and surprise! A couple walking corpses and a Revenant pop out. I can take them, right? Wrong. Game over three times, and then my PS3 froze. I took it as a sign and came to ask for halp. So, halp!

2009-12-05 00:49:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

So, basically, I'm gallivanting through Redcliffe Castle, everything is fine and dandy, though I'm having some trouble with fights. No big deal, right? Well, I hop out into the courtyard and surprise! A couple walking corpses and a Revenant pop out. I can take them, right? Wrong. Game over three times, and then my PS3 froze. I took it as a sign and came to ask for halp. So, halp!

Hmmm ... that is a problem.

Questions

I assume Redcliffe still has a bit of an undead problem that has not yet been resolved?

Must you go out into the courtyard right now and fight the revenant to press forward, or is there a way around it?

Is it possible to retreat back to camp, or are you stuck?
If you are stuck, who do you have with you?

Would you have happened to pick up the DLC called "The Stone Prisoner"?

Have you been to the Circle Tower yet?

2009-12-05 01:16:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Hmmm ... that is a problem.

Questions

I assume Redcliffe still has a bit of an undead problem that has not yet been resolved?

Must you go out into the courtyard right now and fight the revenant to press forward, or is there a way around it?

Is it possible to retreat back to camp, or are you stuck?
If you are stuck, who do you have with you?

Would you have happened to pick up the DLC called "The Stone Prisoner"?

Have you been to the Circle Tower yet?

Answers

Yes, I'm still trying to work out that problem, which is why I'm at the castle.

As far as I know, the courtyard is the only way to go. There's a locked door to the main hall, but it says I need a key. I figured it might be in the courtyard somewhere.

I'm not sure if I can head back to camp or not, but I'd need to get to the world map and to do that I'd need to backtrack out of the castle. Dunno if that's possible. I've got me, Alistair, Morrigan, and Leliana with me.

That's a negative on the DLC for two reasons. 1) I don't have the money to spare at the moment and 2) I just rented the game, so buying DLC would be pointless at this time. (I might buy it at a later date)

And I haven't been to the Circle Tower yet.

2009-12-05 01:32:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Answers

Yes, I'm still trying to work out that problem, which is why I'm at the castle.

As far as I know, the courtyard is the only way to go. There's a locked door to the main hall, but it says I need a key. I figured it might be in the courtyard somewhere.

I'm not sure if I can head back to camp or not, but I'd need to get to the world map and to do that I'd need to backtrack out of the castle. Dunno if that's possible. I've got me, Alistair, Morrigan, and Leliana with me.

That's a negative on the DLC for two reasons. 1) I don't have the money to spare at the moment and 2) I just rented the game, so buying DLC would be pointless at this time. (I might buy it at a later date)

And I haven't been to the Circle Tower yet.

Ok, Here's what I would do.

Assuming no retreat to camp

Look around the Courtyard and see if there's anything you can do to open the gate. Theoretically, this may get the attention of the guards who are typically outside the gate and they should come in to help you.

I don't know what spells you have Morrigan loaded with (Hopefully Entropy spells for an encounter like this). Things like Misdirection Hex and Curse of Mortality will just completely ruin a Revenants day.

If she hasn't picked up Entropy yet, than Cone of Cold might be another useful spell - it may effectively freeze the Revenant upon each use, and may buy you valuable momentum.

Other than that, keep your tanks on him and make sure their tactics are set to auto-heal themselves whenever they reach below 50 or 75 % health - depending on how the battle is turning out for you.

Assuming you can and choose to retreat to camp

Things to bring to prepare:

Tons of potions
Your pet, if you have one

2009-12-05 01:56:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Oh, yeah. I forgot about having some guards posted by the gate. I'll look for a way to open that for sure. And I'm not sure what spells she would have, since I've been auto-leveling everyone other than the main character...

2009-12-05 01:58:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

I'm not sure what spells she would have, since I've been auto-leveling everyone other than the main character...

http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/funny-pictures-gasp-hamster.jpg

... s ... seriously?!?

I've never actually heard of anyone ever actually doing that. I guess I should have assumed that someone people out there do simply by the fact that feature exists ... but I have to say I'm honestly very surprised.

The other members of your party are honestly no less relevant than you - "you" are just another party member as far as combat is concerned. Why you would let the console just spit out stereotypical, effectively random, uncoordinated character builds is just honestly beyond me. This would be the equivilant, I would argue, of choosing 3 out of every 4 skills you pick up in a non-party RPG entirely at random.

It's your choice, but I would highly recommend choosing the skills of characters as they level.

...

2009-12-05 02:04:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Sorry about that ... you just stunned me there for a second. :blush:

Lol, but anyways, yeah, hopefully opening the gate should help you with that fight.

EDIT: If you need any more help, please feel free to repost.
... I promise not to post any more pictures of small mammals.

2009-12-05 02:13:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

i think auto-level up is a bad choice....i tested it once....apparently no skills are set at all...from my experience anyways so most of your party members still probably have the same skills as always...the only thing that changed in my experience are the stats but thats it...nothing more nor less

2009-12-05 07:25:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

2009-12-05 14:46:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

Man, I would screw myself over with auto-level... I was just using it because I wasn't sure what stats I should be giving everyone and it just turned into a habit. Am I totally screwed now?

2009-12-05 16:12:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

No.

1) The characters you have, if your level on the Bioware site is correct (big if) should have gained very few levels under auto-leveling. So you could always find a way to work with the few things it's already spit out for you.

2) There a bunch of other potential party members out there. More than half of the people who play the game, statistically, don't even get them all (not including companions from DLC).

2009-12-05 16:16:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Yeah, everyone in my active party is level 8 now, so I guess it would be hard to really screw anything up in 8 levels. And I was unaware there were so many potential party members. I know from the few I have already that you can keep some of them from joining you, but still...

2009-12-05 16:21:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

I know from the few I have already that you can keep some of them from joining you, but still...

Yes, and you can simply not find/recruit some and/or kick them out of your party.

I actually kicked one character completely out of my party - as in I told them to "leave the camp, now". I won't say why though.

2009-12-05 16:31:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Aha. It's starting to make sense, now. And here I was worried I might have to restart.

2009-12-05 16:37:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Yeah I must say I find it somewhat surprising how many potential party members pop up in the game.

2009-12-05 16:45:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Aha. It's starting to make sense, now. And here I was worried I might have to restart.

Nah, you're fine.

Yeah I must say I find it somewhat surprising how many potential party members pop up in the game.

Out of curiosity ... ... would it be possible to get a spoiler box with who you found and managed to pick up?

I don't mean to pry to much, I'm just very interested in seeing how people's games go ... and the stupid Bioware Social site doesn't do a very good job of doing this task.

2009-12-05 16:46:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Well I realize BioWare does tend to throw in a bonus character or two you won't find through the main story, but the frequency so far was interesting...

First the Mabari hound, I assume that if you don't get the medicine for him he won't be in your party. Then randomly Liliana in the tavern, she tries to save you from Loghain's men and you can recruit her. And Sten right in the same town! Freed him and instantly recruited, and some I still have suspicions over.

Like those Dwarf merchants... I wonder what would have changed if I told them to travel with me instead of saying I'm a grey warden? Maybe they'd try to kill me in my sleep

(really doesn't trust people)

2009-12-05 16:56:00

Author:
Foofles

Posts: 2278

Well I realize BioWare does tend to throw in a bonus character or two you won't find through the main story, but the frequency so far was interesting...

There are many characters you can easily not pick up. Without being too specific and giving anything away, I remember playing one part of the game, had a conversation with a character, they ended up attacking me, killed them, and moved on.

I then later watched my fiance' go through the same encounter, saw the conversation go entirely differently, and instead of a fight, watched them RECRUIT the character. She ended up using her as a main party member, heard their touching backstory, got a mission specifically from them ... whole shebang.

2009-12-05 17:03:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

First the Mabari hound, I assume that if you don't get the medicine for him he won't be in your party.

It's easily possible not to get the hound, yes ... unless you're one particular background, in which case you start the game with it

2009-12-05 17:38:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

EDIT: Nevermind.

2009-12-06 01:38:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Ive just got to Orzammar, I'm a Dalish Warrior, I've only to recruit the Dalish after the dwarves and I've completed that treaty section of the game.

A freind who has finished the game told me to be prepared for Orzammar because it was boring, he almost traded the game in because of it. Its been the opposite for me, I've loved the caste system and history I've discovered in there, I actually can't wait to see the conclusion and effects my actions are gonna have on them.

I'm loving the game. You actually feel like you are making a difference in the world.

i find it annoying that your friend wishes to give his game away only because of one small part of the WHOLE GAME....just sounds like a horrible reason behind it

but nah orzammar is long but it's one of my favorite places to be...so much mayan architecture and such it's really impressive...plus their politics are so extreme i love it...just made a dwarf noble and i'm loving my new character he is such a bad*ss, and the treaty story behind it is great as well...just the deep roads are a little much for me (toooo looooooooooong) since you have so much to travel but it's all good no complaints haha

just wish i could keep gorim as my party member through the whole game :[

2009-12-06 02:44:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

i find it annoying that your friend wishes to give his game away only because of one small part of the WHOLE GAME....just sounds like a horrible reason behind it

but nah orzammar is long but it's one of my favorite places to be...so much mayan architecture and such it's really impressive...plus their politics are so extreme i love it...just made a dwarf noble and i'm loving my new character he is such a bad*ss, and the treaty story behind it is great as well...just the deep roads are a little much for me (toooo looooooooooong) since you have so much to travel but it's all good no complaints haha

just wish i could keep gorim as my party member through the whole game :[

Casteless Dwarf > Dwarf Noble. Sorry, it's just the truth. Casteless dwarf pwns.

Dragon Age is weird. In most RPGs, I just take my good ol' time and choose to be an *** and stuff. In this game there's a sense of urgency to everything and most in-game choices are accompanied with the same amount of stress as real world decisions.

In Fallout 3, for example, I killed just about everybody. In this game I feel a little bit of responsibility for people, mainly because Duncan is like the "Dad" of J.R.R Tolkien-like fantasy, Dad referring to FO3's dad who is one of the coolest guys in video game history.

The big difference between Dad and Duncan is that Dad died a stupid way. He died of radiation poisoning. Duncan was killed like a man. Duncan was mutiliated with swords and axes and such.

2009-12-06 06:45:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

Yeah, once I opened the gate, the Revenant gave me no trouble at all. I wonder why I didn't think about it sooner...

2009-12-06 17:31:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Yeah, once I opened the gate, the Revenant gave me no trouble at all. I wonder why I didn't think about it sooner...

Awesome

Glad to hear it.

EDIT: Oh wow - has anyone ever encountered this bug? (Spoiler Free if you're past the opening of the game)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7q2vvFs_50

2009-12-06 17:56:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Casteless Dwarf > Dwarf Noble. Sorry, it's just the truth. Casteless dwarf pwns.

Dragon Age is weird. In most RPGs, I just take my good ol' time and choose to be an *** and stuff. In this game there's a sense of urgency to everything and most in-game choices are accompanied with the same amount of stress as real world decisions.

In Fallout 3, for example, I killed just about everybody. In this game I feel a little bit of responsibility for people, mainly because Duncan is like the "Dad" of J.R.R Tolkien-like fantasy, Dad referring to FO3's dad who is one of the coolest guys in video game history.

The big difference between Dad and Duncan is that Dad died a stupid way. He died of radiation poisoning. Duncan was killed like a man. Duncan was mutiliated with swords and axes and such.

meh....idk why but i prefer the dwarf noble....casteless seem so normal to me...but a dwarf NOBLE was with the corruption of dwarven politics >

so for me its corrupt dwarf noble > normal casteless guy

at least thats how i see it

but to be honest

arcane warrior elf > all

now that's me

2009-12-06 20:17:00

Author:
Shadowcrazy

Posts: 3365

Okay, quick question, here. How can I unlock the Reaver specialization? I think there's a book for it, but I don't have it/know where to get it. Or maybe there's a party member who can teach me how? I wouldn't consider a name/location to be a spoiler.

2009-12-06 20:28:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Okay, quick question, here. How can I unlock the Reaver specialization?

It's a secret - but if you review some of my earlier posts in this thread ... it is something that could be put together with information in the game.

I wouldn't consider a name/location to be a spoiler.

Really? Ok.

Kolgrim @ Temple of Andraste

2009-12-06 20:29:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Would that be a (potential) party member or just a guy I can talk to?

2009-12-06 20:31:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Would that be a (potential) party member or just a guy I can talk to?

One of those two things.

If you REALLY must know (You really don't need to in order to pursue it), let me put it in a spoiler box.

He's someone you can talk to.

2009-12-06 20:33:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Thanks, Jag. Now, I've heard that the Reaver is actually a really lame specialization. Is it worth my time to pursue it, or should I just go for Champion or something?

2009-12-06 20:34:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Is it worth my time to pursue it, or should I just go for Champion or something?

Reaver ... that first skill seems to be just amazing, if you ask me.

2009-12-06 20:37:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Coolness. Thanks again, Jag. Reaver just sounded like the most interesting specialization to me, so I figured I'd give it a go when I get the chance.

2009-12-06 20:39:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

I hate this game's autosave.

The last autosave it had was an event before I got to the Pearl in Denerim. I was working on the Stone Prisoner quest after I had completed the quest in The Pearl. As a matter of fact, I was done with the town and was killed in the basement of that house. Then, I had to restart at that spot in Denerim BEFORE I had completed that Pearl quest. This has made me lose a whole bunch of progress for no reason twice now.

2009-12-07 01:03:00

Author:
qrtda235566

Posts: 3664

I hate this game's autosave.

The last autosave it had was an event before I got to the (omitted) in Denerim. I was working on the Stone Prisoner quest after I had completed the quest in (omitted) . As a matter of fact, (*MINOR SPOILER OMITTED*

) Then, I had to restart at that spot in Denerim BEFORE I had completed that (omitted) quest. This has made me lose a whole bunch of progress for no reason twice now.

Complaining about the frequency of the autosave is a valid complaint, and I have had to go back significantly at least once because of it...

... but "no reason"?

I believe not saving and dying is a reason. If my airbags don't work, that's a fair complaint ... but if swerve into the wrong lane of traffic while not wearing my seat belt and then crash and die, I would not recommend arguing that I had died "for no reason".

2009-12-07 01:13:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

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