In a revelation that has stirred considerable excitement among Dragon Age enthusiasts, actor Erika Ishii has hinted at the possibility of an unexpected romance option in the forthcoming Dragon Age: The Veilguard. If confirmed, this development could add a new dimension to the franchise, known for its intricate character interactions and rich storytelling.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the latest instalment in BioWare’s acclaimed fantasy series, has been a subject of intense speculation and anticipation. Originally announced as Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, the title underwent a rebranding earlier this year, a decision that elicited a range of reactions from the franchise’s loyal followers. Despite the controversy surrounding the title change, the game remains highly anticipated, with BioWare gradually unveiling more details to sustain fan enthusiasm.
At the recent San Diego Comic-Con, Erika Ishii, who voices the character Rook, one of the game’s protagonists, provided a tantalising hint that Varric Tethras might be a romance option in The Veilguard. Ishii’s gesture involved kissing posters of various characters, a playful nod to the romance options available in the game. Notably, among the characters she kissed was Varric, a beloved dwarf rogue who has featured prominently in previous Dragon Age titles, including Dragon Age II and Dragon Age: Inquisition.
Varric, known for his sharp wit and compelling narrative presence, has long been a fan favourite. His role in the previous games was primarily that of a mentor and ally to the protagonists, which has led many to speculate about the potential for a romantic subplot involving him. However, Ishii also kissed a poster of Manfred, a skeleton character who is unlikely to be a romance option, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the speculation regarding Varric.
The possibility of Varric becoming a romanceable character reflects the broader ambition of Dragon Age: The Veilguard to offer an expansive and inclusive narrative experience. BioWare has disclosed that the game will feature an extensive script, with over 140,000 lines of dialogue. This substantial increase from the 88,000 lines in Dragon Age: Inquisition suggests a more intricate and interactive storyline, catering to the diverse choices and preferences of players.
In a recent interview, John Elper, the game’s director, addressed concerns about the series’ canon and continuity. Elper confirmed that Dragon Age: The Veilguard will not adhere to a fixed world state, allowing players to determine the narrative’s direction based on their choices in previous games. This approach aligns with BioWare’s tradition of offering a personalised experience, ensuring that long-time fans and newcomers alike can influence the story according to their preferences.
In addition to narrative innovations, Dragon Age: The Veilguard is also expected to improve the gaming experience on PC. Fans will be pleased to learn that the game will not require the EA App for those purchasing it via Steam. This decision comes as a relief to many PC players who have expressed dissatisfaction with EA’s launcher, simplifying access to the game and enhancing user convenience.
As the release date for Dragon Age: The Veilguard approaches, excitement and speculation continue to build. While the potential inclusion of Varric as a romance option remains unconfirmed, the revelation from Erika Ishii has undeniably sparked renewed interest and anticipation among fans. With a promise of a rich narrative and expansive dialogue, The Veilguard is poised to continue the franchise’s tradition of delivering engaging and multifaceted gameplay.
In summary, while the possibility of romancing Varric adds an intriguing layer to the game’s already complex narrative, the overall excitement surrounding Dragon Age: The Veilguard reflects the series’ enduring appeal. As BioWare continues to release more information, fans will be eagerly watching for further updates and confirmations. The game’s release later this year will undoubtedly provide answers and set the stage for the next chapter in this beloved fantasy universe.
