My Very Own Lich Guide

As I delved into the world of Dragon Age: Origins, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. The game's intricate storyline and engaging characters are reminiscent of the classic RPGs that I grew up with. However, as I began to explore the game's mechanics, I found myself struggling to connect with certain aspects.

One of the first issues I encountered was Qara, the spoiled brat sorceress. She was thrust upon my party without warning, and I haven't used her once. To be honest, I wasn't a fan of hers in Knights of the Old Republic II either. It's as if she's just taking up space.

On the other hand, the sheer number of companions can feel overwhelming at times. It's like being bombarded with options from left and right. This can lead to character quests feeling stifled, as half the time my companions won't even talk to me. However, I do appreciate that many responses offer a healthy dose of sass if you don't feel like playing good or evil straight down the line.

One aspect that has improved significantly is dialogue options. There are plenty of opportunities to bluff, taunt, and persuade, with lore and stats occasionally coming into play. It's great to see the developers taking cues from other RPGs and incorporating more nuanced character interactions.

But, oh boy, do I have some beef with the influence system. It feels like a tacked-on mechanic that disrupts the flow of gameplay. And don't even get me started on my character being Harry Potter – complete with a scar and dead mother – in a game that's supposed to be set in a medieval fantasy world.

The whole experience feels a bit like an MMO at times, with quests that are generic and paint-by-numbers. Half the time I had no idea why my character was bothering with the City Watch when I could have just snuck into the noble district. But, I do appreciate the beautiful visuals on display – especially in areas like the tutorial zone, which reminded me of Archet/Combe in Lord of the Rings Online.

As I finished Act 1 of the OC last night, I was surprised to find that there's even less to note than in NWN 1. It's clear that the developers are focusing on refining their craft and delivering a more streamlined experience.

Overall, my time with Dragon Age: Origins has been mixed. While there are certainly aspects that need improvement, the game has its moments of brilliance – particularly in terms of character interactions and visuals. I'm excited to see where the series goes from here.

My very own lith guide