Gamers are a patient lot. These days, the gap between major game sequels can easily stretch to five years or more. But, even by the standards of massive blockbusters, the wait for the fourth Dragon Age has felt like, um, an age.
Mired by delays and reboots, EA-owned developer Bioware’s biggest tentpole game alongside Mass Effect has been ten years in the making. Long-suffering fans of the fantasy series cross their fingers for a release date every year, only to be let down.
With the game at risk of becoming a punching bag online, seen by some as symptomatic of a troubled gaming industry with as many misfires as massive hits, Bioware has come out on the offensive.
On Thursday (June 6), the developer announced some big news, including the game’s new title and what it means for its storyline. Furthermore, it’s poised to unveil the first, in-depth look at its gameplay at the Summer Game Fest next week.
Fans will definitely want to tune in to the event as we’re almost guaranteed to learn the game’s release date - though we have an inkling on when that could be. Here’s everything we know about Dragon Age 4.
What is Dragon Age: The Veilguard?
The game formerly known as Dragon Age: Dreadwolf is now officially titled Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
Bioware says the new moniker is more appropriate for the game's narrative and gameplay. In keeping with the series’ tropes, Veilguard will feature a new story, a new hero, and new companions (seven unique characters in this case, each with their own intricate backstories, who players can meld with their decisions).
Those aides, who you’ve previously been able to romance, will be a massive part of the new game. Returning players to the magical world of Thedas, the goal will be to “unite this team of unforgettable heroes as you take on a terrifying new threat”.
What about the Dread Wolf?
With its latest announcement, Bioware has cast aside speculation that the new RPG may be a direct sequel to its predecessor, Dragon Age: Inquisition, rather than a standalone entry (as is the norm for the series). It’s no wonder people jumped to that assumption as the titular Dread Wolf, a morally ambiguous elven God, is a pivotal part of Inquisition. Without giving too much away, the mythical character is unmasked in the third installment.
That’s not to say the mischievous deity won’t be in the new game. “Naturally, the Dread Wolf still has an important part in this tale, but you and your companions – not your enemies – are the heart of this new experience,” says Bioware.
When will we learn more?
The developer will showcase a 15-minute gameplay video, giving fans their best look at the game yet, on June 11. You’ll be able to watch along from 5pm in the UK on the Dragon Age YouTube channel.
When is the game’s release date?
While Veilguard doesn’t have an official release date, there are some clues as to when it could arrive.
It was initially expected in 2023, but an EA financial report pointed to a 2024 release. Speculation also suggests a release before March 2025, based on EA’s fiscal year. Based on that timeline, it could land as soon as this autumn.
What do the trailers show?
As of now, several teasers have been released for Veilguard, all of them before its name change. The first of these focused on the game’s connection to the Dread Wolf, setting the stage for his role in the game.
During EA Play Live 2020, a brief clip showcased some concept art and hinted at the broader regions of Thedas players would explore. In a subsequent video, we learned of the new territories in the game, including Tevinter (an imperium presided over by mages) Anderfels, Antiva, and Rivain.
