Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the latest installment from BioWare, introduces a vibrant and humorous setting, diverging from its darker predecessors. While set in the same universe and featuring familiar characters, players do not need previous game experience or imported saves to enjoy it. This approach welcomes newcomers while still engaging long-time fans, ensuring the game is accessible to all. With its release imminent, many are rushing to catch up on earlier installments, though it’s not essential for gameplay.
If you’re a fan of role-playing games or fantasy worlds, then you must be eagerly anticipating Dragon Age: The Veilguard. This title has been long in development at BioWare, and it garnered significant attention when its initial trailer was unveiled. Unlike its predecessors, which were deeply rooted in dark fantasy—especially Dragon Age: Origins and Dragon Age II—The Veilguard embraces a vibrant artistic style and a lighthearted tone. This shift has not only sparked curiosity among dedicated fans but has also drawn in a multitude of new players. Consequently, many are left wondering: Can you enjoy Dragon Age: The Veilguard without experience from earlier games?
Continuity in the Dragon Age Universe
Those who have followed the Dragon Age series from the beginning know that its lore is extensive and interconnected. One of the hallmarks of the series is that the choices players make carry over from one installment to the next. Since Dragon Age II, players have had the ability to import their saved games, allowing them to continue their journey in a world shaped by their past actions. This feature has been beloved by fans, enhancing the uniqueness of each player’s experience.
Many gamers are taking this opportunity to revisit or play through the first three Dragon Age games ahead of the release of The Veilguard. However, completing this endeavor may require several hundred hours if you aim for a comprehensive experience or at least dozens of hours for a more streamlined approach. With Dragon Age: The Veilguard set to release shortly, the possibility of finishing this preparatory task becomes increasingly challenging.
Do You Need to Play Previous Titles to Enjoy The Veilguard?
To put an end to any uncertainty: Yes, you can dive into Dragon Age: The Veilguard without playing the earlier titles in the series. Although The Veilguard is set in the same universe and features some recognizable characters from previous games, it marks a departure from the series tradition, as you won’t be able to import your saved games into this installment.
This decision aims to make the game accessible to newcomers, ensuring they don’t feel lost in the Dragon Age world. Addressing this very concern, game director Corinne Busche told IGN that “new players shouldn’t feel like they’ve missed out”. In essence, if you haven’t played earlier installments, it won’t hinder your enjoyment of The Veilguard. While returning fans may catch a few nostalgic references, the game is designed to be welcoming to all. At the beginning of your journey, you’ll also respond to a selection of questions that will help shape your world, serving as a substitute for save importation.
Additionally, there’s curiosity surrounding the PS5 Pro version of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Developers are set to reveal significant enhancements thanks to the new console, promising exciting updates for players eager to experience the game at its best!