BioWare’s latest game, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, introduces several new regions within its expanded universe, including areas previously only hinted at in lore. Players can now explore the Arlathan Forest, Hossberg Wetlands, Minrathous, Rivain, and Treviso. These regions have been showcased through trailers that highlight their visual appeal and promise a rich exploration experience.
In The Veilguard, exploration will involve discovering loot, solving puzzles, and uncovering lore, along with new transportation modes like fast travel. The game enhances the exploration experience by integrating the unique abilities of seven companions, each contributing special skills that reveal additional secrets and opportunities within these areas.
A significant change in this installment is the limitation of bringing only two companions at a time. While this may seem restrictive, BioWare has addressed this by allowing players to use companions’ exploration abilities even when they are not part of the active party. This functionality is managed through the Lyrium Dagger, enabling players to benefit from their companions’ skills without needing constant party adjustments.
This solution is reminiscent of approaches seen in other games, such as Baldur’s Gate 3, which improved companion inventory management, and Genshin Impact, where players can switch between multiple characters freely. The Lyrium Dagger provides a practical way to access a large roster’s benefits without frequent changes to the party setup.
Additionally, The Veilguard introduces a feature where companions can be seen interacting with the world on their own. For instance, players might find Lucanis enjoying a cup of coffee in Treviso. This touch adds a layer of realism and immersion to the game, making the world feel more dynamic and alive.
