The Dragon Age series is one of the most beloved in the fantasy genre, one of Bioware's most successful franchises to date. Throughout the vast game world, there are many interesting and unique cultures, each with their own memorable characters.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard Developers Discuss Bringing the Blood Mage Back
Fans have been disappointed by a lack of Blood Magic in Dragon Age: The Veilguard, but a comment from BioWare may have some interesting implications.
When considering different character designs, the main consideration is their clothing and physical appearance and how well this embodies their personality, abilities, and backstory. While some characters only feature small parts, others can be companions and even romance options throughout each game. Players will get to know each character in extraordinary depth thanks to the top-class writing of the series, and there are hopes that more memorable and iconic characters can be introduced with the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
9 King Cailan (Dragon Age: Origins)
The Incompetent Leader's Armor Is The Envy Of All Warriors
Few characters provided a better introduction to the game world of the Dragon Age series than King Cailan. The naive and overzealous young King comments on his 'disappointment' at the lack of an Archdemon during the initial battle of Dragon Age: Origins.
He doesn't last too long and is promptly killed during this first encounter, making him a relatively minor character in the story overall. However, in his brief appearance, King Cailan certainly leaves a lasting impression, even if it is one of ineptitude unbefitting his golden heavy armor.
8 Isabela (Dragon Age 2)
The Cunning Rogue Is A Reflection Of Kirkwall's Underground Criminality
Dragon Age 2 introduced a slightly more colonial-era aesthetic to the series as it took place in the more densely-populated city-state of Kirkwall. As a result, many characters are inspired by pirate-style designs, with companion Isabela being perhaps the best among them all.
A smuggler and pirate captain, Isabela is an unmistakable rogue and wears plenty of (presumably stolen) jewelry around her neck and arms. In many ways, it is little surprise that Isabela was often used as the 'poster girl' for advertising Kirkwall and its unique culture when Dragon Age 2 was first released.
7 Iron Bull (Dragon Age: Inquisition)
This Unique Qunari Follower Will Intimidate Opponents
Dragon Age: Inquisition represented a significant step forward graphically from its predecessors, which led to more extravagant character designs overall. Though certainly not a typical Qunari, Iron Bull is a spy of The Qun's Ben-Hassrath who runs Bull's Chargers, making him a fearsome combatant above all else.
In addition to being a great companion, Iron Bull's design is an interesting take on animal-human therianthropic designs. On top of this, his eye patch and heavy armor speak to his past as a seasoned adventurer, one with a brutal and violent past.
6 Shale (Dragon Age: Origins)
The Enchanted Golem Is One Of The Best Companions In The Game
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Shale is a stone golem players can encounter in Dragon Age: Origins as part of the "Stone Prisoner" DLC. While golems feature in the Deep Roads, they are largely a novelty to the other races. Even among golems, though, Shale is an exception.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard Fans Are Worried About Certain Choices Not Carrying Over
Dragon Age fans are worried the World State tab in The Veilguard's character creator won't account for some major story decisions from Inquisition.
Her crystal-studded design speaks to her formidable supernatural power and the fact that she was originally enchanted by Paragon Caridin. Shale is a powerful follower and easily one of the best Warrior companions in the game.
4 Vivienne (Dragon Age: Inquisition)
This Royal Mage Has One Of The Best Outfits In The Entire Series
Orlais is famed for an opulent and high-brow culture, and nowhere is this showcased better than in Dragon Age: Inquisition when the Inquisitor visits the capital city of Val Royeaux. Around this time, players will encounter the powerful mage, Vivienne, who can be recruited as a companion.
As the personal advisor and enchantress of Empress Celene, it makes sense that Vivienne's design would be particularly extravagant. Her robes and helm give off a supernatural appearance, making her appear both fearsome and highly sophisticated.
3 Leliana (Dragon Age 2)
The Recurring Rogue Has Great Character Development Throughout Each Game
Leliana is a recurring character who appears, in some capacity, in each of the first three Dragon Age titles. At first a sister of the Chantry, Leliana is initially welcomed into the Grey Warden's party as a relatively timid and reserved character.
Dragon Age: Origins Deserves A Remake
I'm all for gameplay innovations to match a changing market, and while I like what I see from all the Dragon Age: The Veilguard previews, a part of me still wishes for that classic DA:O experience, where every wrong move can have you reloading from your last save.
She returns for a brief cameo in Dragon Age 2 with a much more adventurous appearance speaking to her Rogue class and her role in the then-unknown Inquisition. Leliana even makes a further appearance in Dragon Age: Inquisition.
2 Duncan (Dragon Age: Origins)
The Legendary Grey Warden Is A Picture Of Honor, Strength And Duty
Voiced by the late Peter Renaday, Duncan is the embodiment of a wise, stoic leader, and a perfect example of what a Grey Warden should be. Initially, he acts as a mentor and guide to the player as they initiate their joining of the Grey Wardens.
Donning his signature dual blades and engraved armor, Duncan is presented clearly as a formidable warrior before we ever see him enter the fray. Even his facial details and unkempt hairstyle speak to his veteran rank and adventurous exploits.
1 Morrigan (Dragon Age: Origins)
The Mysterious Witch Immediately Captured Audiences And Still Remains A Fan Favorite
The Witch of the Wilds, Morrigan, is without a doubt one of the most iconic characters in the Dragon Age series. She features most heavily in Dragon Age: Origins, where players can meet and recruit her relatively early on. With Shapeshifting powers and incredible potential as a mage, she is easily one of the strongest companions in the game.
Morrigan's design is immediately striking and portrays her magical abilities. Adorned in feathers and charms from her native Korcari Wilds, Morrigan's appearance initially intimidates the Grey Wardens. She also returned in Dragon Age: Inquisition due to her popularity and influence within the game world and is returning in Dragon Age: The Veilguard, though with a much-altered design.
Dragon Age
- Released
- November 3, 2009
