|
Speeding up the Strategy
The combat system is in real-time, with the ability to pause and choose an action. Similar to Origins, cool down times and usage of upgraded powers is key to becoming a strong battler. Given the number of choices among all the characters (you can randomly jump around to each member of your party) combat is always fun and always different. The customizable A.I. is incredibly intricate and easy to manage, which will likely be something you will enjoy muddling around with. Each character (companions included) have their own class with multiple paths to branch their specialization. While it takes awhile to get your Champion (and party) up to par with the quick tease Bioware provides in the beginning of the campaign, its worth the investment.
Although, 'Dragon Age 2' feels less strategic than its predecessor, it still has some tactical impulses hidden within all the hacking-and-slashing. This "adjustment" might bother some, but underneath the new feel, it's the same system. While the core mechanics might be aimed a more streamlined audience (they also did this in Mass Effect) I found it to be more solid and fun. The tactical aspect for me was in tinkering with my party more than the battlefield.
The Sights and Sounds
Graphically, 'Dragon Age 2' gets a rather large bump in quality, and possibly more importantly, performance. There are no more slowdowns, which is great for big skirmishes, although it seems part of the reason for this improvement was a smoothing, or dulling of the textures in the environments. The characters, detailed outfits and facial animations all seem to be in the clear, but the environments are a little washed out without being overly captivating. In the combat department the animations could use a little tightening to feel more impactful, however usually so much is going on like multiple enemies, magic spells, etc.. that it won't be of much concern.
Bioware also felt compelled to add lots of blood to 'Dragon Age 2.' Blood will be everywhere during and after combat, so much that you will likely watch a blood-soaked cut-scene after a battle. The thing is... no one wipes the blood off their face... huh? just another pet peeve/observation. Beyond this, I was really surprised at how polished the game looks, it's definitely a positive step for the series, proving that 'Dragon Age' can have the brains and the Fox (reference to our Dragon Age: Origins review -- link --.)
On the other side, the audio-techs will be pleased to hear, 'Dragon Age 2' is outstanding. Making the biggest impact is soundtrack, which is rich with a baroque, orchestral feel that always fits the part. Accompanying the strong soundtrack are solid sound effects, although I did have to do a little manual balancing, it's loud, crashing and impactful. For the voice acting, it is dynamite, as expected. For the most part, the cast bequeaths a convincing performance, which is highlighted by the sharp writing. Even the banter outside main conversations can be wildly entertaining, once Isabela joins the team, you will see what I mean. Really, I could have imagined anything more for the audio, excellent job.
Following the 'Mass Effect' series, Bioware has reformulated and streamlined the experience within 'Dragon Age 2.' While it certainly comes with some backlash, the end product is a more cohesive, polished game that continues to transform into its own entity. For this gamer, who wasn't overly enthralled with the original, 'Dragon Age 2' hits their target mark by bringing me into the age of dragons with an overwhelming sense of excitement. I loved everything 'Dragon Age 2' had to offer, this is one RPG, all fans of the genre should check out. Gripping, complex, and delightful, role-playing games are rarely this good.
|
|
-
Compelling tale filled with wonderful characters, twists and turns
-
Gameplay has been streamlined, yet still has complexities
-
Great art direction and design
-
Graphics have been improved
-
Unparalleled amount of choice that effect the tale in several ways
-
Huge game, worth replaying
|
|
- Conversation options don't disappear after voiced
- What's with the blood soak faces? Need a towel?
- Relationship dynamics could have more impact
- Can't fully equip everyone (aside from Hawke)
- Combat has been streamlined, could alienate some its core audience
- No reason to explore, or solve quests on your own, your hand is held for the entire epic voyage
|
| Quote: "Gripping, complex, and delightful, role-playing games are rarely this good." |
Reviewed by Downtown Jimmy | 03.11.11 |
|
Similar Games: Dragon Age II: Legacy DLC (6.5) | The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings (8.5) | Dragon Age: Origins (9.5)
|
