User Score
7.7 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 362 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 59 out of 362

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  1. PCgamerJ
    Jan 16, 2010
    6
    A very, very heavily hyped game that does what it does solidly and with polish, but shows precious little inspiration. Voice acting is generally of excellent quality. However, dialogue is often painfully bad, with character stories dipping into territory more suited to soap opera than a heroic epic. The plot and game world are a cliched and bland Lord of the Rings pastiche; the game's locations and enemies are very generic and insipidly designed; the game engine renders the main characters nicely but natural landscapes are unacceptably crude for a supposed AAA title in 2009/10. The 'Mature' rating is maturity as understood by an adolescent, consisting of gory violence (complete with a ludicrous blood-spattering of characters), some suggestive dialogue, and some embarrasingly staged 'sex' scenes with partial nudity (yes, they keep their underwear on). NPCs stand around in the same place whatever you do. There is no day/night cycle, though it may occasionally rain. Indeed, the passage of time is completely imperceptible: the 'Blight' (the monster invasion) only spreads across the game map as you 'tick the boxes' that progress the plot, meaning there is no dramatic tension in your actions. For example: at one point you are told you may travel to another location to gain help for a possessed boy but it will cost you precious time. However, this is not true - you can wander the map as much as you like with no adverse consequences: you will not fail the quest if you go visiting sundry other locations, and the invasion will spread no further than if you made any other choice available. If you have never played an RPG before this may be a delight for you. Otherwise, it's nothing special. Expand
    • 2 of 5 users said yes
  2. J.Webb
    Nov 19, 2009
    4
    Unplayable on PS3. No isometric view, framerate issues, clipping issues, texture issues. Fugly overall. Also lag after battles, during dialogue sequences, and even sound effects lag when using menus. Disappointed @ BIOWARE for caring less.
    • 2 of 7 users said yes
  3. Jan 17, 2011
    8
    With more work in technology and graphics details it could be one of the best rpg games of last years. Anyway, DAO turn out a excellent game with a lot of hours of gameplay and a great history.
  4. Jan 17, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game fulfilled my needs of high fantasy epic for the last months of 2009 and, with the DLC, most of the 2010. A great experience fueled by a great script with astounding companions. Expand
  5. Aug 31, 2011
    9
    The story, the setting, the characters and the gameplay are fantastic i actually couldnt stop playing it. Its like a book you cant put down until you know what happens next
  6. jamesh
    Nov 10, 2009
    6
    Overall a disappointing experience. After falling in love with Mass Effect I thought this game would be of the same quality, but its not. At first I thought it was because I got it for the Ps3, but it sounds like the 360 has just as many problems. The graphics are terrible. Framerate issues are constant, as well as popping and rendering. I just don't have the patience for games that are sub-par quality. And I wish more critics would take bugs and glitches more seriously, because I am tired of spending my money on games that run and look like crap. Expand
    • 1 of 3 users said yes
  7. WillieK
    Nov 9, 2009
    7
    It's such a shame that the PS3 port of this game is so technically flawed. The tearing and unacceptably inconsistent frame rates on the PS3 are such a surprise given the average look of the game, and several audio issues plague what is fundamentally a great RPG when taking the story, gameplay mechanics, and characters into consideration. Thankfully those are what most RPG fans are focused on, so all the technical issues can almost be overlooked... almost. Bottom line is after playing a game like Demon's Souls, or Uncharted 2 (such is the way of first party titles) getting this disappointment of port of an otherwise solid RPG makes me wish Bioware/EA would have held off the PS3 for the extra time it was originally dated for if it would have meant a more polished product for PS3 owners. If you have an Xbox360 or adequate gaming PC I'd say pick up that version and pass over this craptastic port for the PS3, because the game is enjoyable at it's core; it's just the nasty exterior finish that makes me totally regret making this a 0-day purchase. Here's hoping that future patches can address some of these issues and deliver on my now dashed expectations. Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  8. PaulR
    Dec 8, 2009
    3
    Don't know why everyone loves this game so much. There is SO MUCH dialogue that you have to sit through, so many pointless conversation trees - so tedious. Sacred 2 is a much better option if you prefer to actually PLAY rather than WATCH. Furthermore, for a game that is supposed to be a "mature" RPG, the costumes on the females are disgraceful, like something out of a cheesy 80s fantasy art calendar. Stupid. Most over-rated game I've ever come across. Expand
    • 1 of 3 users said yes
  9. NikoW
    Jan 11, 2010
    3
    Seriously, sooooo boring. Played almost 30 hours, took it as seriously as I could, so it's not like I didn't give it a chance: worst purchase I've made in a long time. Very overrated game.
    • 1 of 3 users said yes
  10. BenB
    Jan 12, 2010
    4
    On the PS3, very buggy, shoddy graphics and user interface, more reading than interacting. The bugs would be okay if not for saved games being lost, for example. The graphics are dated [dare I say] by about 5 years if not moreso. (Side story: friend of mine saw the game and said, "nice graphics!" His computer can handle graphics like these. So I show him Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, SF4, LBP, Fallout 2, SG4, and other games. His "nice graphics" comment went to "wow those suck!" Eye of the knowledgable beholder.) Lastly the reading is morbidly overwhelming! I like to read books, mind you. But reading and listening to conversation shouldn't be overbearing like this. A good reason is for the re-playability. Start a new character and you have to go through so much of the same diagolue and piecemeal a viable retort .. again .. and again .. and again and again! A better solution is to follow the content and dialogue strategies of Fallout 2 and Elder Scrolls: Oblivion. Even Bethesda's Daggerfall followed this strategy with all its amazing content, and that was something like mid-90s! I normally wouldn't care to vote against any game. But the hype on this one is far too great for its makeup. Expand
    • 1 of 6 users said yes
  11. Jan 25, 2011
    9
    i was sceptical at first because i knew little about this game. i loved the specialized starts and the combat in rpg style. once i killed my first darkspawn i was addictive. i love this game but it freezes oftenly. it have alot of bugs but it's very fun none the less. buy if you like RPG's.
  12. Aug 26, 2011
    9
    While it's not a flawless PC to console port, Biowares' first PS3 game promises a bright future for rpg fans craving the good old days of Baldur's Gate and Neverwinter Nights. The graphics are dated, yet the environments creatively designed, the combat is flawed, yet it provides more depth than most console rpgs. While the pendulum of ups and downs is noticeable,it is not game-breaking and it's the incredibly deep characters that are the game's selling point. This is not a game that you can play in small increments, so you will have to dedicate large chunks of time for each gaming session. The beginning, in particular, will require some patience, but the pace picks up quickly once the characters are introduced and you will be well rewarded. The moral choices that you get to make on your journey really make you feel like you are part of the DA:O universe. This is Biowares' finest. Highly recommended! Expand
  13. Feb 8, 2012
    10
    A unique and fun game that gives a great sense of involvement to both character and plot. A genuinely great game that I have found to be well thought out and full of classic RPG charm. It's difficult to stop playing and the only problem is that you can't play it in twenty minute or hour bursts as it's too addictive.
  14. MichaelM
    Nov 6, 2009
    9
    This game is amazing. Freakin spectacular. The PS3 version is slightly better than the 360 version, but not by much. Don't listen to the guy below me, PS2 graphics are not in the card...It's not as good graphically, as say...Mass Effect..but sometimes on the characters of places you get the feeling that it's right there close to it. I would honestly give the graphics card...8.5..but thats me. The rest of everything else is awesome. It has some things wrong with it, but nothing that hinders the fun factor. If you love RPG's like this..its a game to buy. Gameplay-10 presentation-9.5 graphics-8.5 replayability-10 total-9 Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  15. MichaelVanS
    Jan 8, 2010
    9
    This game is MASS EFFECT meets Dungeons and Dragons. If you are a hack and slash gamer, you won't like this game. If you read fantasy novels, enjoy story driven role-playing games, you will love this game. The story is compelling and the game play is scalable to the level of control you wish to take. There is alot of dialogue, but unlike some negative reviewers, I don't consider that a problem. Like I said "story driven"...I don't know how you could do that without the dialogue. And some of the most hilarious moments come just listening to your party members chit-chat as you walk down the road. I recommend swapping out characters on a regular basis if for no other reason than to hear some of the hilarious lines they fire at one another! There are so many variables that rely on your starting background, you find yourself playing the opening sequence over and over, just so you won't miss any of the options. I would recommend that new players start the game using every possible combination both male and female, then once you have reached Flemeth's Hut with each; only then you can decide which character you want to play through the rest of the game with. The stories really are that good. My only complaint is the graphics could have been a little better IMO. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  16. DougD
    Nov 9, 2009
    10
    Hands down a must own. Amazingly deep game, with good (not great) graphics, and limitless choices. Suffers from some effects of the port from the PC, but it depends on what you are looking for. If you want to be blown away by graphics, this might not be the game for you. If you were waiting for a great RPG for the PS3, go get it now, it likely won't get much better. I'd prefer if it was in 1080p, and if they'd have put more time into porting it to the PS3, but overall, the gameplay isn't really effected. Those who feel it second nature to have a Playstation controller in their hand will do fine, those who want a mouse will be just as good. All in all, Bioware made a great game, they just needed to spend more cycles porting it, and if you're looking for gameplay that won't really matter anyway. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  17. RobP
    Nov 6, 2009
    10
    PS3 vs XBOX 360 Review of Dragon Age (Bioware's KOTOR 2), November 4, 2009 The PS3 version is 17.3% better than the 360 version for 4.2 reasons. The 360 version is 13.7% better than the PS3 version for 2.4 reasons. Which version is better for you will be determined by your saving throw. NO SPOILERS I picked up both versions. I have two identical TVs, one bedroom, one den, both 50" 1080p Panasonic G10s. For this review I put them side by side in the den, PS3 hooked up to one, 360 to the other, and choose the same origin story. I played the PS3, my wife played the 360, we both took the day off of work, a "Bioware Holiday." BIOWARE The Bioware RPG is one of my favorite video game genres. KOTOR 1 is still my favorite story. I played through Mass Effect 7 times. If you like Bioware, you will like Dragon Age. KOTOR 2 GRAPHICS Bioware didn't make KOTOR 2. Until now. Dragon Age's graphics in general look like a last generation game, upconverted to HD. And why should they not? This game was 5 years in the making. Personally, if I could wave a magic wigglestick, I would magically wish the graphics into the year 2069, to play in my PS9 in my flying car. Unfortunately, I live in a condo that doesn't allow wigglesticking. So the choice is (A) Play the Bioware game. (B) Don't play the Bioware game. (C) Eat a cup cake. No one plays Bioware games for the graphics. You play for the CYOA storytelling. 6 COMPLETE CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE NOVELS Dragon Age is 10 Novels long. With 6 unique hero journeys. That can be twisted good or naughty. Warrior. Magic. Thief. Hybrid-Hybrid. Bioware is the only developer on the planet that makes this kind of beautiful uniqueness. This kind of awesomeness only comes around once every few years. Is this flavor of awesomeness perfect? No. Is amateur pornography perfect? No. Sometimes the pacing is off, or the dialogue excessive, but it gets the job done. The job is to experience a genuine human story--even if you're a lesbian elf. Dragon Age is fantastic video game storytelling. And better written than most fantasy novels. BLOOD SPLATTER OR POTPOURRI? I'm going to give Bioware the benefit of the doubt and believe that after battles my characters are splattered with blood and not potpourri. It's hard to tell visually, but I don't think they would censor themselves because this game is, like, totally Mature. GAY SEX - NO NUDITY My wife likes lesbian threesomes. In books. In movies. In video games. In our kids' crayon drawings. She had never played a Bioware game before, but she likes role playing, and I told her Dragon Age has lesbian threesomes. Now, like with most video games, the depiction of sex isn't much more sophisticated visually than taking two barbie dolls and slapping them together. And there's no nudity. Because Bioware understands the genuine human condition--that people make the special love with their cloths on-- even if you're a bi-sexual dwarf. So if you like realisticly-sized breasts well-covered with beige felt bikinis, then you, my friend, are in for a PG-13 flavored treat. CASUAL VS HARDCORE My wife played on easy, I played on normal. If you're an uber-genius, like me, who enjoys micromanagement, obscure RPG tactics, and general strategery... Then prepare to spend a lot of time, with the game paused, in clunky interface menus, because that's how real men play. That's how my grandpappy played his Bioware games, and his grandpappy before him, back when Bioware wasn't even Canadian, when they were still French, and the TVs had 11" screens and were powered by fire--usually dry hickory. So if you want that kind of authentic gaming experiece, you can have it. But if you just want to enjoy the story, crank that menu to easy, slump back in the couch, and unbuckle your pants for a good time. PS3 VS 360 Like with all games, it's a choice between graphics vs framerate. The PS3 has slightly better textures, color saturation, contrast level, resolution. The 360 is less pretty but smoother. The PS3 is the supermodel with arthritis. The 360 is a Ukrainian gymnast. You get to choose who you want to take to bed. But since all you're going to do in bed is talk... It's not such a big deal. Unless you put two 50" plasmas right next to each other, you're not going to see the difference. I'm going to keep the PS3 version (because I like the controller better) and give my 360 copy to my favorite charity FVGFBO that provides fantastic video games for blind orphans. BUY IT, PLAY IT, LOVE IT Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  18. LesE
    Dec 8, 2009
    9
    The game was slightly delayed in the UK in order to rectify the framerate issues. Graphically this was better than I was led to believe but not of the best. However the developers wore their Martin/Tolkein etc influence proudly on their sleeves and made no apology for what was a somewhat cliched plot. However the depth of character relations and funny as hell plot twist options (kill Alistair I say), as well as the great romantic entaglements (to me always a highlight of Bioware games) push this to a 9. I'm on my second play Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  19. Phalange
    Jan 25, 2010
    10
    Alot of people either hate this game or love it. I personally love this game. It took me awhile to get into it but once i did and started leveling my character and getting into the quests i found the whole game very immersive and addicting. Once i got going into the main quest i couldn't pull myself away from my xbox. I played it for about 3 days straight and once i finished my first playthough I found myself repeatedly going back to do things differently and changing the outcome of the game. Very good game, and once it picks up speed it never lets you go with its great storytelling and fun combat and tactics. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  20. RichardN
    Nov 13, 2009
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. True immersion in an epic storyline. Amazing writing and acting - why can't more games focus on narrative instead of just graphics
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  21. GW
    Nov 16, 2009
    7
    Overall, to me the game play is not good, but then again I am not into RPG games unless they have a ton of action in them. To me I give it a 6.5 as my game suffered from lags and constant interruptions in audio. Might take it back as it doesn't want to play correctly for some reason on the PS3.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  22. PeterE
    Nov 20, 2009
    9
    For RPG I could care less about graphics, as long as the story is gripping and the game will last me a long time it is good in my book. This game has a great story, the combat is not as bad as I thought it was going to be, and to be honest it is pretty easy. I love the decision making and interaction you have with others and your party members, definitely a must have for true RPG fans.. But the PC version is the best because of the top view and because on the PC version there will be alot of cool add ons. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  23. DrGulag
    Nov 20, 2009
    10
    Greatest console RPG yet! It's simply a master piece from Bioware. People might complain about the graphics but this game is so much more than that. Causality, every action will have a consequence. So much depth. !
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  24. JayS
    Nov 8, 2009
    9
    If you can ignore what Tyler said if you will, this is not a port from a 360. The 360 suffers from the same bugs and worse, if you must know. In any case, yes, the PC version is superior, yes the game has a bugs. But none of them are big enough to really ignore such a marvelous game. The story, the setting, the characters and the gameplay are all great and beyond. If you're annoyed by simple bugs, then yes, don't get it. Otherwise I highly recommend the game. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  25. yourmother
    Dec 1, 2009
    10
    best rpg since baldurs gate2. the story is epic and the battles well balanced. who cres about graphics that are no match for uncharted? There used to be a time when gameplay was important.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  26. TyeS
    Dec 4, 2009
    9
    The world is fully realized. The main characters are intriguing. The gameplay, while familiar, is excellently executed. This game will please those who have come to love the Bioware experience and maybe convert some newcomers along the way.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  27. JaredK
    Dec 6, 2009
    6
    I've played pretty much every bioware game in existance, and I've got to say that dragon age comes up short in comparison to every game they've made, save for the original neverwinter nights campaign. The companions are interesting, but the story is bland, and both the combat system and character progession are broken (making the game a chore to play until you're high level and uber powerful). Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  28. MatthewE
    Dec 7, 2009
    5
    Not sure why everyone loves this game. I love RPG's this style, but this is shoddy workmanship! Bad framerate, crappy character models, and some of the worst graphics for a big-budget game. The dialogue is a joke, and the writing is pretty hackneyed. I love this game formula and that is the only reason it even gets a 5. If I didn't love this type of RPG it would have gotten a 3! Get w/ the program Bioware! Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  29. Yoyommmmmm
    Nov 11, 2009
    10
    I love it. A truly amazing game with a compelling story that grabs you the minute you start playing. The combat system is.....interesting for some and might be a turn off for others but you should play this game either way. it's worth it
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  30. BrettS
    Nov 11, 2009
    5
    Great cut scenes and dialog, graphics and game play are dated. Played only 6 hours and am now bored.
    • 0 of 1 users said yes
  31. DaveM
    Nov 24, 2009
    7
    I find the pausing to micromanage the battles a little disconcerting. I would be much happier if I could replay the battles, pause free.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  32. CasonG
    Nov 25, 2009
    9
    It may not be the prettiest game available, but that isn't what matters. As a game, it is a very enjoyable experience, with an interesting story and non-standard quests, that will take 100s of hours of my life... following behind Fallout 3 and Oblivion.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  33. JonSmon
    Nov 26, 2009
    10
    Amazing game. So much gameplay. Great story and dialogue. Though my only complaint is my wife loves it so much I hardly get to play it! I hope they put out a ton of expansions for this one! Best RPG ever!!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  34. BillF
    Nov 28, 2009
    7
    When you beat this game, you will feel like you only played half a game. This, combined with the various at-launch bugs and porting issues, makes the Dragon Age release very much like the Jade Empire release that went down in history as Bioware's worst user experience ever. The plot was also largely recycled from Jade Empire, with a healthy dose of plagiarism of George R. R. Martin thrown in. Comparing this game to Mass Effect is an insult to Mass Effect. The fact that this game was launched with two simultaneous, different versions of the game, one of which included some DLC, no on-shelf version of which included all the DLC available at launch, inevitably gives one reason to articulate the word "ripoff merch game". About 75% of the game is pointless scavenger hunts. The last fight takes a card from older Final Fantasy games -- the Ridiculously Unfair & Aggravating Boss Fight card, specifically. When you finally do slay the proverbial dragon, the sensation is something along the lines of voiding your bowels after 36 hours of constipation. All this being said, the game is fun while it lasts, and quite addictive. Summary: I enjoyed the game but it's no more than a 7/10, and I don't plan to play it again. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  35. TylerH.
    Nov 5, 2009
    7
    Game suffers from many issues, not limited to but including ps2 style graphics engine and almost no surround or stereo sound. Obviously a port from the 360, an overall disappointing outing from Bioware, I expected more from them after playing Mass Effect for PC, obviously should have gotten this for that and not ps3. Some backgrounds are clipping into each other and appear 2D, while other sections of the game look like cardboard. If you get past all the games faults, this has proven so far to be an enjoyable game. Renting first would be wise. It seems companies are getting better and better at making great previews, while the game suffers or lacks major quality. Still a good game, have not beaten it obviously as it just came out, and worth while to play... just be cautioned that it has many errors and flaws and may make you cringe graphically... go with the PC version if your able, Im sure you'll be happier with the choice. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  36. [ANONYMOUS]
    Nov 6, 2009
    10
    Classic RPG. Great story. Deep compelling combat.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  37. TonyY
    Dec 10, 2009
    9
    Epic RPG, the story could have been shorter and this could have had more impact on player. Overall an expereince was really good, if you can't stand Jap RPG but like the gameplay to be similar. You will love this.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  38. GT2
    Dec 16, 2009
    8
    Before you buy the game here is the checklist: 1) You like true RPG games (NOT action "RPG-like" hack n slash games). 2) You are interested in a good story and enjoy dialogue. The dialogue in the game is not there just to progress through cutscenes, it is as much part of the game as fighting. 3) It is not hack n' slash. You control any character at any one time and you guide him towards the enemy and press once to attack. You only press buttons to use special moves called talents. 4) If english is not your native lang make sure you know above average. 5) Don't neglect to read the codex pages as you find them. They explain the story so you always know what the NPCs are talking about. 6) You can control everything about your party's AI if you like and micromanage everything but you can also focus on your character alone without much thought of anything else. It's your choise. Just make sure you play on the NORMAL difficulty, otherwise it may seem too easy. If you are OK with these points then you are going to enjoy this game. It is a massive, epic single player game. The story although not original is very well written, the characters are very interesting, the battles are great. The only complaint I have about this game is that it is not open world (like oblivion). A very good game nonetheless. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  39. vineetb
    Dec 26, 2009
    9
    if i want to define this game in one word i would say - awesome.never played a game in which evey decision has its own repercussion. i m not giving this game10 merely bec. of 1 reason & ie graphics.i have played uc2 & ac2 recently & graphics are stupendous but dragon age is a true value for money. no second thoughts about it.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  40. ja
    Nov 16, 2009
    0
    This game sucks! Graphics are terrible, combat is boring, and all the dialogue is tedious. Demon's Souls is 1000 times better.
    • 0 of 1 users said yes
  41. chrisv.
    Nov 16, 2009
    5
    An amusing rpg that would have been more impressive sans the cutscenes, awkward romance, adolescent humor and pseudo intellectual attempts at moral complexity. More ultraviolent soft-core soap opera than dark fantasy, with alot of minor bugs and flawed combat, but it should serve as a great time waster for many.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  42. DevinT
    Dec 11, 2009
    4
    This game suffers significantly from too much dialogue. Hours spent talking to peeps doing nothing. When you finally get to a fight, while I like aspects of the combat system, the actually battles / exploring are simply to short. Followed of course by hours more of pointless conversation. I was looking forward to exploring the world, but of course the game is linear rigid and canned encounters. Give me something like good old Diablo on the PS1. I just want to hack/slash, have conversations in passing, and find magic items. Diablo3 can't arrive soon enough. Expand
    • 0 of 1 users said yes
  43. MIsfitSoda
    Dec 26, 2009
    5
    M-E-H. Got 20 hours in hoping the game would get better. Forced myself to keep playing. Just boring. Just, who cares about any of this.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  44. ChrisM
    Dec 31, 2009
    10
    This game scores on every category which makes an RPG great. The story is very long but ultimately satisfying, the combat is both simple and hard (if you wish it to be) through micro-management, team mates work with you, rather than against, if you configure their tactics and the graphics are adequate. Out of the previously mentioned, the only weakness is the graphics. Character models and armour details are poor, but the quality of the environment is amazing. You will find yourself standing in awe in certain circumstances. This game requires immense hours to be put in (I finished at 36 hours and mainly focused on the storyline, with a few side quests) but if you are ready to go on an epic fantasy adventure, akin to the Lord of the Rings, get this game. Just be prepared for the long haul. Absolutely fantastic! Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  45. Mar 13, 2011
    8
    I had a great time with this game. So much so that I will being playing through it several times to play as each unique class (though the rogue and warrior do share the same weapons primarily). The only issue I have is that the combat is a little difficult to control. I had to play on easy, because half way through the game on normal, I was getting slaughtered. Overall the skill customization, and story were both very well done. I would suggest this game to any RPG player who doesn't mind a LOT of dialogue. Expand
  46. Sep 19, 2010
    8
    think star wars KOTR meets lord of the rings here. its a pretty solid RPG with a few flaws . one the graphics almost look like a launch game instead of a game that belongs on this system 3 years later. the combat system isnt bad but if you didnt like star wars KOTR's combat system you will not like this ones . i didnt mind it but there wasnt alot of control to the combat . you basically hit the attack button and wach your charicter beat the crap out of people while occasionly tossing ina specialattack . where the game shines at is the choices you can make and how you interact with your party members. you can be kind and friendly and understanding or a evil prick. some of the comments you can make gave me a good laugh. not as funny as KOTR's comments which really had me laughing. you also cap your lvl too low i think its lvl 20-30 which should not be . the lowest lvl cap they should have is 50 . perfably 99 . the voice acting is well done the diolouge isnt bad. the story is intresting . i wish there where more side quests but bioware is adding alot with DLC. if you like RPG's and are a big fan of bioware then you should check this out. Expand
  47. Nov 12, 2010
    8
    Dragon Age was a heavily hyped game that didn't quite live up to what I was hoping for. I've heard the PC version is the best (requires the most strategy), but on the PS3 this plays less like a classic RPG and more like a pseudo action game. The story is terrific, although the game does not always do a good job of immersing you in it. The voice acting is well done, but the scripts are pretty generic and melodramatic. On the plus side, it is entertaining to play, there is a ton of content, and lots of replay value. If you really enjoy the gameplay you will definitely get a lot of bang for your buck. In the end it is a fine game, but definitely not a "great" game. Expand
  48. Aug 29, 2010
    10
    This game is amazing on every level. The story is full of great shocking moments and events, the characters are increidibly human and vivid, the combat is satisfying and brutal. You will spend countless hours playing this game, and when you aren't, you'll wish you could. I cannot recommend this game enough, if you love RPGs, this is a MUST BUY.
  49. Jan 22, 2011
    6
    Solid enough RPG with some interesting features - like the way that you can define your character and his/her relationship with the other party members - that ultimately doesn't offer anything that hasn't been done better elsewhere. Minor glitches, such as the frequently fluctuating frame rate during battles, can be overlooked, but it's the (relatively) small playing area and linear plot that disappointed me the most. I loved the comedy, soap-opera style script though. Expand
  50. Nov 23, 2010
    8
    great game great designs for once i felt like 100 hrs of gameplay was 2 much...rpg ers this is for u! however it is a pc rip so the graphics will make u scratch ur eyes out.
  51. Oct 11, 2011
    5
    It felt like I was spending the whole time waiting for the painfully boring dialogue to finally end and get into combat. Unfortunately when I did finally get to start fighting, I found the combat boring and repetitive. I don't think it's really a problem with the game, since based on the reviews there are plenty of people who are into this kind of thing. Maybe my attention span is just too short for this type of thing! Expand
  52. Oct 5, 2010
    9
    If your looking for an addictive RPG to kill countless hours, then this game is for you. The storyline is simply amazing, in that no matter which character you build, the dynamic of the game changes. you can pick your path, choose your words, even pick your friends even if they are just computers. The story line can be intense, and you even can become intimate with some of the characters, not that they reveal anything. The graphics are decent, they could be better, and that is the only reason this game got a 9/10. Expand
  53. Nov 28, 2011
    8
    finishing Dragon age: Origins made me feel like I'v played a true RPG. I don't usually play RPGs, so when I decided to play this game I wasn't exactly feeling like a "veteran" of the genre. The game has a predictable "Lord of the rings" tale that has that "good VS evil" feel to it. The real meat of the game lies in it's dialog/story and combat system which are all fun and interesting. the characters and the dialog options you have in a conversation are all brilliant, and probably the high point of the game.The combat itself on the consoles is decent, but seems like it doesn't fit console controlls to say the least, but it get's better when you know the characters well,especially after having so many conversations with them, and knowing their desires and conflicts.The RPG elements are all here, and while there is nothing groundbreaking, I still feel like the game is fresh, seeing how many cheap action games are coming out nowadays.The game is 2 years old but still kicks most RPGs that i'v played this generation in their butts. The console versions are genuinely worst compared with the pc version, so if you are playing the game on a pc add another point to the score. The game let's you role play and make decisions as you go. The game almost never forces you on one way to do things, and your opinion allways counts. This defines DAO for me, and is really what makes it stand out as a true RPG experience, at least in this generation. Expand
  54. Jan 23, 2011
    8
    An epic game that's most likely suitable for the calm/passive gamer rather than the instant action type gamer as there is a handful of provocative dialogue, dynamic voice acting, and humorous character relationship development that might bore the average RPG-er.
  55. Mar 9, 2011
    8
    Excellent story, characters, and non-linear plot path. Should be quite replayable (but I don't generally replay games, especially not ones that have this many hours of gameplay for one playthrough). The combat system, with injuries, complex armour logic, fatigue, etc. make for a rich RPG gameplay and there are enough ways to customize your character that it keeps everyone from becoming a superhero by the end. Lack of 'quick slots' for skills made it difficult to use all of your skills, though. Also, it's too bad that 90% of the skills are directly or indirectly combat skills -- I was hoping for more gameplay that didn't involve combat or conversation. NPC approval rating was novel. Giving gifts helped bring out character in your NPC's, but by the end it felt a little too much like 'gaming' the NPC's feelings. There are frequent places where your decisions can truly affect the plot in a very meaningful way. Very nice. The plot does get a bit too 'political' and dry for my tastes, but is well written. Summary: a good game with a lot of promise for the beginning of a new RPG series. Expand
  56. Mar 24, 2011
    10
    No other RPG game has caused me to play over and over again. The sheer breath of this game was more than I expected. The dialog was so in depth that you could have a conversation/arguement with any of your companions at any time. Quite an immersive experience. I almost brought this game back because to me it wasn't on the par of Oblivion, specifically I couldn't free roam, but the storyline and character interaction was beyond what Oblivion was. On top of that, the characters didn't look hideous as the latter either. Strange about how the beards looked like costume tie-ons. Six origin stories means lots of game time. My all time favorite game. Expand
  57. Apr 10, 2011
    10
    absolutly love this game and i can only think of a few things that are problems for me but even so it is still a masterpiece and brilliant in its own right. first of this game is not like most tyipical games when it comes to fighting style it is kind of like World of Warcraft in that respect (it is in no way like WoW at all just the fighting style). there is so much to do and you can play for hours upon hours and you will still not be anywhere neer done. there are also 6 different ways to start out the story so even after you have beaten the game you have a reason to start all over again. the voice acting and graphics are well done and you can tell that they have put a lot of time and effort into this game. this game is defenatly a must buy and is not to be missed Expand
  58. Mar 17, 2011
    6
    Really, really needs a patch. PS3 version has multiple problems, including one well documented game breaking bug. Bioware appears to have abandoned development in favor of the execrable Dragon Age 2. A successful patch would earn this game an '8', but that's probably a pipe dream at this juncture.
  59. Mar 19, 2011
    10
    To this day Dragon Age Origins is my favourite game of all time and I've played a lot of games over the years! I can understand why some people don't like it and they're as entitled to their opinion as I am but for me this game is everything a game should be. With an engaging and epic story twisting and turning through until the end, wonderful characters that I found myself not only being interested in but actually caring about and a rich tapestry of history and religion to read about in the codex I spent hour after hour playing this game and enjoying every minute. The choice of dialogue you get really makes you think and consider your responses when talking to your companions, the way you can choose which equipment you'd like for them and yourself, the tactics you need to employ to get the best out of your team when fighting the enemy and the sometimes crucial decision of who you'll be taking with you to certain locations. I also loved the option to romance some of your allies and the banter between them often made me laugh out loud. The only slight flaws with this game are that the graphics don't always look brilliant, it can be quite linear as opposed to open ended and sometimes the sneak option didn't work very well but everything else in this game just make these flaws tiny compared to how much else it does so brilliantly. Never have I spent so many hours playing a game with such a big grin on my face through sheer enjoyment as I did with this one. Dragon Age Origins will always have a special place in my heart. Expand
  60. Jul 8, 2011
    10
    This is my favourite RPG of this generation. Incredible and memorable characters (I adore the interactions between some of them, especially between Morrigan and the rest of the team) , an immersing and coherent fiction world, a very well constructed narration with a lot of options to choose, an interesting combat system, and a lot of other virtues. It's really the successor of Baldur's Gate, adapted to nowadays (more cinematics, a little more agile combat system,...). I've played all the origins stories, and i have repeated some of them, the replayability is so high!!! If only the "sequel" had been the half of it... Expand
  61. Apr 3, 2011
    10
    First game that made me discover EA/Bioware games and they REALLY did a great job on that one... The story line is what you want it to be and teh pcs are just lovable! Great game if you like RPG. You might also want the suite Dragon Age Awakening (a bit less well constructed then the first one but still a great piece of game)
  62. Apr 23, 2011
    9
    Memorable characters, very good voice acting, the story is cliche yes but VERY well executed. There are many different sides you can take, it's a political drama. This game is heavy on choices, the choices you make can make party members love you, hate you, or even fight you to the death and surprisingly, I took it into consideration with my decision making because the characters are just so incredible and like-able. NOTE: IF YOU HAVE THE OPTION, BUY THIS GAME FOR PC. SECOND NOTE: I have a rule I like to follow in these kind of games. NEVER. I REPEAT. NEVER LOAD. If you're the kind of player who loads game because of an outcome you don't like (character leaving, faction hating you, character loving you.) You ruin the best part about this game. Play through like you don't have a time machine, okay? You'll slap your forehead a few times but it adds to the fun. Expand
  63. May 17, 2011
    0
    this is such a bad game,absolutely pathetic attempt at creating an rpg,shame on you bioware,i will be never ever ever again purchasing any of your products after this abomination of a game
  64. May 21, 2011
    0
    what a stupid game i cant beleive i brought it the music is baaaaaaaad the graphics are baaaaaaaad the story is baaaaaaaaaaaaad the whole game is baaaaaaaaaad
  65. Jun 11, 2011
    9
    Excellent blend of action/strategy/RPG gameplay. Story was lengthy and intriguing. Add that I only played one play-through with one class/race and this game has excellent replay value. Graphics aren't the best but not bad enough to make you want to stop playing.
  66. Jun 19, 2011
    9
    In my own opinion this is the number one RPG to date. I personally love the console version controls as opposed to the PC controls. Bioware has always delivered strong games, but the story as well as the vastness of the universe are just amazing. The only complaint I have for Dragon Age: Origins is with the technical issues. A few minor frame rate issues and bugs, as well as a large loophole in the import system from Origins to Awakening, are the only things stopping Dragon Age from getting a solid and undeniable 10/10. Expand
  67. Sep 6, 2011
    5
    I was very excited to play this game but now... now I'm very disappointed... Graphics and sound are ok. Gameplay is boring because is slooooooow. No challenge here. Battles may be confusing and tedious sometimes. I guess I liked customization. However, story was not interesting. Dialogs and voices are monotonous. Sex scenes are lame.
  68. Dec 30, 2011
    5
    It's a solid RPG. There's nothing really new here. Dialogue is a bit boring but OK. This game was promoted as being a game were your choises make a great impact. That's not really true. There's a lot of management, and the truth is, if you're not into the whole RPG genre, it's to much. There is no tutorial and when you have build your character wrong, you will notice only after 25+ hours in the game. Before that, the game is pretty easy. You can't change your attributes and stuff so you've played for nothing (like I did). This is really disappointing. For the real fans of these kind of games however there is a lot to love. The management works if you know it. There is a lot of atmosphere although the storytelling could be better. I found out only afterwards, but appearently you can interact really deeply with your team mates. You can manage and build your team of 4. The problem is, these are all things I've learned after I quit the game after 25+ hours of gameplay. If you are not a noob, and have played games like The elder scrolls, then add 3 to my score. Expand
  69. Nov 14, 2011
    8
    Very Story driven. Very Lovable and in depth character in this game. Old school style rpg click and automatic attacks with hotkeys for skills, but compared to its pc cousin the console lacked a lot. The gameplay itself is not all to bad with limited skills that can be hotkey but still carries the same overall experience in the Dragon Age world. Great sandbox with a great story. 8.5/10* PC=9/10*
  70. Mar 8, 2012
    0
    I was terribly disappointed in this psuedo rpg game. What is it at all. The tragic mission. No plot. Again, pseudo-dialogues for children and the content does not make sense. World very limited and corridor.
  71. Jan 9, 2012
    8
    This is the most solid fantasy RPG of the generation, and I loved every minute. It is quite Lord of the Rings (in a good way, if also in a cliched way), and there is not a huge amount of innovation to be found here. Nonetheless, the game world is rich and detailed, voice acting is excellent, companions are interesting for the most part, and combat is addictive and deep. The game is also long, and feels like a genuine epic (unlike, say, Oblivion, which feels oddly empty and soulless at times)........... This game is receiving a 8 from me on consoles, and a 10 on PC, simply because it is very 'click heavy', and is suited for mouse and keyboard over a controller. It's also been optimised for PC. Enjoy the game, ignore the sequel DA:2, and let's hope DA:3 builds on this solid foundation. Highly recommended. Expand
  72. Mar 26, 2012
    10
    one of the best RPG's i've ever played...that being said its a game only ment for rpg fans. i would not recommend this to anyone who is looking for a hack and slash kind of experience. skyrim may be better suited for that type of game play.( and i don't mean that in a negative way towards skyrim, just two different types of gameplay)
  73. Mar 21, 2012
    8
    A game that is definitely worth playing. The settings for your party AI is a bit clunky, and there are issues with lag on occasion. Several times I had to reload after a cutscene and the dialogs were extremely tedious after having just gone through them, but overall they were well done and not annoying unless I had to reload.
  74. Apr 6, 2012
    9
    Great story, great character development. While this game is tailored for the PC, it's still very playable on the PS3. The combat feels automatic, but this doesn't make the game any less involving or interesting to play. The main quest will take you about 20 hours to complete on normal difficulty, and may vary slightly on which origin story you'll choose. The companions you'll recruit are all interesting to interact with, and react positively or negatively to the decisions you make while playing. The world feels alive and big, with tons of books to collect and read, tons of dialogue and choices to make, you really feel like you have an impact on the game world once you have finished it. Expand
  75. May 14, 2012
    1
    This was by far the worst game I have played on ps3 to date. It's just not very entertaining in every aspects. The graphics was horrible, this game is ps2 quality. I played a few hours and my face was -_-; the story was crap, the characters made me not care. ughh
Metascore

Generally favorable reviews - based on 41 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 41
  2. Negative: 0 out of 41
  1. 84
    It's a delight to give into a fantasy setting with such a dense back story, even if the gameplay still rarely breaks away from conventions established a decade ago.
  2. Incredible storytelling, great characters, and exciting battles are just a few of the things that make this fantasy role-playing game so extraordinary.
  3. This is definitely not the game for those frightened of the idea of micromanaging a game to the point where a large portion of it will be spent in a pause screen. However, as the sort of guy that has lovingly played an Infinity Engine game at least once every year for the past decade, I can think of no higher praise for this throwback than to say that Dragon Age: Origins leaves me feeling fairly confident I won't need to dig out the classics for this ritual next year.