Dragon Age Uncloaks Veilguard Classes, Factions

Dragon Age: The Veilguard: A New Era of Action-Oriented Combat

Dragon Age: The Veilguard promises a significant shift from the series' roots, embracing a more action-focused combat system. This departure has sparked debate among fans, but the core Dragon Age experience remains, albeit adapted for this new style. Player choices, particularly the chosen background for the protagonist, Rook, will impact gameplay beyond simple dialogue options.

The game features nine unique class specializations, each carefully integrated into the narrative and setting of Northern Thedas. Rook's connection to the Veil, for instance, precludes the Blood Mage specialization, while Tevinter Templars lack the magic-suppressing abilities of their southern counterparts. Each class (Warrior, Mage, and Rogue) offers three specializations, unlocked through interactions with the game's six factions.

According to a GameInformer interview with John Elper, each specialization is linked to a specific faction. The Mourn Watch of Nevarra, for example, might train Rook in the ways of the Reaper or Death Caller, depending on their class. The Reaper, a new specialization, utilizes "night blades" instead of traditional warrior weapons, while the Death Caller focuses on necromancy. Faction selection during character creation defines not only Rook's backstory and identity but also their casual attire within the Lighthouse.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard Classes and Specializations:

Warrior:

• Reaper: A deadly fighter who sacrifices health for power.
• Slayer: A master of two-handed weaponry.
• Champion: A defensive tactician skilled with sword and shield.

Mage:

• Evoker: An elemental mage wielding fire, ice, and lightning.
• Death Caller: A necromancer specializing in advanced spirit magic.
• Spellblade: A melee mage who infuses attacks with magic.

Rogue:

• Duelist: A swift dual-bladed fighter.
• Saboteur: An expert in traps and explosives.
• Veil Hunter: A ranged specialist using lightning magic and a bow.

While the initial availability of specializations based on background remains unclear, each of the six factions plays a crucial narrative role. Choosing a faction grants Rook three unique traits affecting both combat and non-combat gameplay. Selecting the Lords of Fortune, for example, boosts damage against mercenaries, improves takedowns, and enhances reputation with the faction. While appearance can be altered via the Mirror of Transformation, Rook's background, lineage, and class are permanent.

The Veilguard aims to avoid the repetitive tasks that criticized its predecessors. While foregoing an open world, the game focuses on structured missions reminiscent of successful BioWare titles. The success of these design choices will be revealed soon, with Dragon Age: The Veilguard's release slated for Fall 2024.