It has been a long time since my last post due to a large amount of university work. I have no intention for this post to be a semi-intelligent discussion about video games. Rather, to play to the idea that there are people reading this blog and offer a quick update.
Back on topic, I finally got around to finishing Dragon Age: Origins last week. I have to say it was one of the best games I have ever played. Through the 55 hours of play time I spent with my Human Warrior I became so immersed within the game's fantastically constructed world. Even to the point where at times I felt a strong connection with some of my fellow party members. The game's major choices consistently had significant weight to them and never were the decisions clear cut in being good or bad. I saved the Circle of Magi, uncovered Andraste's Ashes, broke the Werewolf curse, crowned a new king of Orgrimm...Orzammar and learnt more about the Chantry than I know about any real religion.
Playing as a woman, an awkward romance flared up between my character Rebecca and Alistair. Unfortunately, the romance never developed far and was ended in one of the most genuine and emotional moments I have ever experienced in a video game. I played out the game's closing choices in what felt perfect for Rebecca's character arc and the ending was very satisfying. After discussing narrative in video games so heavily, Dragon Age: Origins fit the mould of more or less my own perfect game. The characters were interesting and well developed throughout; the gameplay was challenging and exciting; the story was engaging with enough twists and turns to keep me hooked throughout and the world was fully realised and believable. I would recommend it to anyone who, like me, is interested in video game storytelling.
So, my character's story came to a dramatic end and I'm really looking forward to the expansion but until then, I've started my second playthrough. Plus...Mass Effect 2 is released this Friday. I cannot wait to get my hands on this game. Another that promises a great story, great characters in addition to many improvements from the fantastic original. It may even be the game that takes this blog's review virginity! We shall see after the weekend marathon I have planned with the game.
