Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition is a game that has captured the hearts of many players. This edition includes the base game along with all downloadable content (DLC), making it a complete package for fans of role-playing games (RPGs). Whether you’re new to the Dragon Age series or a returning player, there are plenty of reasons to dive into this game. Here are seven compelling reasons why Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition is a must-play.
Key Takeaways
- The game features an engaging storyline that keeps players hooked from start to finish.
- Memorable characters add depth and richness to the game’s narrative.
- The improved combat system offers a more responsive and thrilling gameplay experience.
- The dialogue wheel provides a more interactive and immersive way to engage in conversations.
- High-quality visuals and a unique art style enhance the overall gaming experience.
1. Engaging Storyline
Dragon Age II’s storyline is like a rollercoaster ride through a political minefield. Instead of the usual ‘save the world from evil’ plot, the game focuses on the city of Kirkwall and its internal struggles. This shift in narrative style is both bold and refreshing.
The story unfolds over three acts, each spanning several years. This structure allows for a deep dive into the city’s history and politics. You’ll find yourself embroiled in factional conflicts, making choices that have far-reaching consequences. The use of an unreliable narrator, Varric, adds a layer of intrigue and humor, making you question what’s real and what’s exaggerated.
While some players might miss the epic scope of the first game, the localized setting allows for a more intimate and detailed story. The plot is filled with OMG and WTF moments that will keep you hooked, even if the ending leaves you hanging a bit.
So, if you’re up for a story that’s more about political drama than world-saving heroics, Dragon Age II’s engaging storyline won’t disappoint as mentioned on usplayercheck.com site.
2. Memorable Characters
One of the standout features of Dragon Age II is its unforgettable cast of characters. BioWare has truly outdone themselves by creating companions with rich backstories, unique personalities, and dynamic relationships. Whether it’s the witty banter between party members or the deep, emotional connections you form with them, these characters will stick with you long after the game is over.
Walking around Kirkwall, you’ll encounter a diverse group of companions, each with their own distinct attitudes and values. From a rebellious pirate to a lyrium-addicted former slave, the variety is astounding. The interactions between these characters are often hilarious and sometimes heartwarming, adding layers of depth to the game’s narrative.
Here are a few reasons why the characters in Dragon Age II are so memorable:
- Diverse Backgrounds: Each companion comes from a different walk of life, providing a wide range of perspectives and experiences.
- Dynamic Relationships: The relationships between characters evolve over time, leading to some truly memorable moments.
- Engaging Dialogue: The conversations between companions are well-written and often filled with humor and emotion.
In short, the characters in Dragon Age II are not just sidekicks; they are integral to the story and your experience in the game. Their memorable personalities and interactions make the game a joy to play.
3. Improved Combat System
Alright, let’s talk about the combat in Dragon Age II. If you thought the combat in Origins was a bit slow, you’re in for a treat. The combat in Dragon Age II is faster and more responsive. It’s like the game had a double shot of espresso and decided to go all out.
Gone are the days of waiting for your character to swing their sword like they’re underwater. Now, your rogue can backflip away from enemies, mages can twirl and slam their staves, and warriors can unleash a flurry of attacks that would make even the most seasoned fighter jealous.
But it’s not just about speed. The combat system has been overhauled to be more action-oriented while still retaining some tactical elements. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes the combat in Dragon Age II so much fun:
- Flashy Moves: Expect a lot of dramatic flair. Enemies explode in showers of blood and guts, making every fight feel like a blockbuster movie.
- Class Overhauls: Some classes, like the archer, have been completely revamped to make them more enjoyable to play. Even mages get in on the action with some hand-to-hand combat moves.
- Less Micromanagement: Unless you’re playing on the hardest difficulty, you won’t need to micromanage your party as much. This makes the game more accessible to new players.
- Improved AI: While the enemy AI isn’t perfect, it’s a step up from Origins. Just be prepared for enemies to sometimes materialize out of thin air, usually right behind your squishy mage.
So, if you’re looking for a combat system that’s both fast-paced and fun, Dragon Age II has got you covered. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself grinning like a maniac during every battle.
4. Dialogue Wheel
One of the coolest features in Dragon Age II is the dialogue wheel. This nifty tool lets you choose how Hawke, the main character, responds in conversations. You can be diplomatic, funny, or downright aggressive. Your choices shape Hawke’s personality and how others see you in the game.
The dialogue wheel isn’t just for show. It comes with icons that hint at the tone of your response. Want to be charming? Look for the purple gem. Feeling sarcastic? There’s an icon for that too. Just remember, if you don’t check the manual, you might end up confusing a flirt with a threat!
Your companions also get in on the action. They can chime in during conversations, opening up new dialogue options. This makes your team feel more like real people and less like battle buddies. Plus, the banter between them is often hilarious and adds a lot of flavor to the game.
So, if you love games where your choices matter and you enjoy a good laugh, the dialogue wheel in Dragon Age II is sure to keep you entertained.
5. Visuals and Art Style
Dragon Age II’s visuals and art style are like a fine wine—they get better with age, or at least, they try to! The game draws inspiration from a mix of sources, including the works of Pieter Bruegel, Sergio Leone, and Akira Kurosawa. Even the movie Conan the Barbarian had a hand in shaping its look. The goal? To create art that’s memorable and stylistic, unlike the somewhat bland locales of its predecessor, Dragon Age: Origins.
Consistent Design
One of the big wins for Dragon Age II is its consistent graphic design. The team aimed to fix the visual inconsistencies that plagued Origins. They even redesigned the game’s races to make them more distinctive. For example, the Qunari now sport a pair of horns, making them look way cooler and more intimidating.
Improved Graphics Engine
The game runs on an improved version of the Eclipse Engine, renamed Lycium. This upgrade was meant to accommodate the new art style and improve the game’s overall look. While the team was a bit bummed that the engine was outdated by the time the game released, they did manage to introduce better lighting and new tools for sky editing and water rendering. So, while it might not be cutting-edge, it’s definitely a step up from Origins.
A Single City, Many Looks
Due to a tight development schedule, the game is set in a single city. But don’t worry, it’s not as boring as it sounds! The city evolves over time, so you get to see different looks and feels as you progress through the game. This clever trick allowed the developers to reuse art assets while still keeping things fresh for players.
6. Downloadable Content
Alright, let’s talk about the cherry on top of the Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition sundae – the downloadable content (DLC). This game doesn’t just stop at the main storyline; it offers a buffet of extra content that will keep you glued to your screen.
First up, we have “Legacy”. This DLC dives into Hawke’s family history and uncovers some dark secrets. It’s like a family reunion, but with more darkspawn and fewer awkward conversations.
Next, there’s “Mark of the Assassin”. Here, you team up with the charming and mysterious Tallis, voiced by none other than Felicia Day. It’s a heist mission with dragons – what more could you want?
And let’s not forget the item packs! These packs are like Christmas morning, giving you new weapons, armor, and other goodies to make your hero even more epic.
In short, the DLCs for Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition add layers of depth and fun to an already fantastic game. So, if you haven’t dived into these extra adventures yet, what are you waiting for?
7. Replayability
One of the best things about Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition is its replayability. You can play it over and over, and it never gets old. Here’s why:
- Multiple Classes and Specializations: You can choose to be a warrior, mage, or rogue, each with unique abilities and specializations. This means every playthrough can be a new experience.
- Different Choices and Consequences: The game is full of choices that affect the story. Want to be a hero or a villain? Your decisions shape the world around you.
- Varied Companions: Each companion has their own story and personality. Depending on who you bring along, your journey can change dramatically.
- DLC Content: The Ultimate Edition includes all downloadable content, adding even more quests, characters, and items to explore.
So, if you’re looking for a game that keeps on giving, Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition is the one for you. You can read more here about this game.
Conclusion
In the end, Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition is like that quirky friend who always has a good story to tell, even if they sometimes repeat themselves. Sure, the environments might look a bit too familiar after a while, and the combat can be a bit chaotic, but the engaging story, memorable characters, and the sheer fun of slicing through darkspawn make it all worthwhile. Plus, who can resist the charm of a game that lets you pause mid-battle to strategize or just mash buttons to your heart’s content? So, if you’re looking for a game that’s a mix of action, adventure, and a dash of humor, Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition is definitely worth a playthrough. Just don’t forget to bring your sense of humor and maybe a map to navigate those repetitive dungeons!
Frequently Asked Questions
What platforms is Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition available on?
Dragon Age II: Ultimate Edition is available on PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Mac OS X.
What makes the storyline of Dragon Age II engaging?
The storyline is engaging because it follows the journey of Hawke, a refugee who becomes a legendary hero in the city of Kirkwall. The narrative is filled with political intrigue, personal drama, and epic battles.
How does the combat system in Dragon Age II differ from Dragon Age: Origins?
The combat system in Dragon Age II is faster and more action-oriented compared to Dragon Age: Origins. It allows for both button-mashing and strategic planning, making it accessible for different play styles.
What is the dialogue wheel in Dragon Age II?
The dialogue wheel is a feature that lets players choose how their character responds in conversations. It makes dialogues more interactive and helps shape the story based on the player’s choices.
What downloadable content is available for Dragon Age II?
There are several downloadable content packs, including Legacy and Mark of The Assassin, which add new storylines and challenges to the game.
Is Dragon Age II replayable?
Yes, Dragon Age II offers high replayability due to its multiple character classes, different story choices, and various difficulty levels.