As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard later this fall, BioWare has clarified that the concept of a single, definitive “canon” storyline will not be a feature in the upcoming RPG. Creative director John Epler has highlighted that the game’s narrative will not adhere to one true path, but rather, the canon will be shaped by each player’s individual experience.
This decision reflects a shift from previous installments where certain storylines or events were considered canonical.
In a recent interview, Epler addressed the frequent inquiries about whether The Veilguard will follow a specific canon narrative, especially in light of supplementary media like comics and shows.
He acknowledged that while specific media might establish their own canons, the game itself will not enforce a singular canonical world or storyline. Epler emphasized that players will have the freedom to create their own canon based on their choices within the game.
Epler also expressed a personal preference for exploring unconventional and chaotic paths in the game but reiterated that there will be no enforced canon. This approach allows for a diverse range of experiences and outcomes, aligning with BioWare’s goal of providing a deeply personalized gaming experience.
Each player’s journey through The Veilguard will result in a unique version of Thedas, tailored to their own decisions and actions.
Ashley Barlow, the creative performance director, supported Epler’s stance, emphasizing that the game is designed to be an open-ended adventure where players define their own storylines and consequences.
This aligns with BioWare’s intent to let players take the lead and shape their own version of the game’s world and narrative. Barlow expressed excitement about seeing the varied paths players will take and the diverse outcomes they will generate.
For fans of the Dragon Age series, this means that The Veilguard will offer a fresh and personalized experience, diverging from the more structured approach seen in Inquisition.
The game will feature mission-based gameplay, which is expected to deliver a compelling narrative experience without the constraints of a single canonical storyline. As a devoted fan, the prospect of a game where the canon is shaped by player choice is an exciting development, promising a rich and varied gameplay experience.
