If, like me, you’ve been eagerly anticipating the next installment in your beloved franchise for a whole decade, you’ll share in my excitement for the upcoming release of the new Dragon Age game dropping next week. After ten long years since 2014’s Dragon Age: Inquisition set the bar high for high-fantasy gaming experiences before Elden Ring, fans can finally dive deeper into the world of Thedas with the much-anticipated sequel, Dragon Age: The Veilguard. The journey has been long and at times frustrating — fans cannot even hear the names “Joplin” or “Morrison” without a pang of what could have been. But we persevered, clinging to the good and, if you’re like me, replaying Inquisition repeatedly.
It’s hard to deny that Dragon Age: Inquisition is a fantastic game; it even scooped up Game of the Year at the 2014 Game Awards. However, whenever the game comes up in conversation, it inevitably steers towards the tedium of the early Hinterlands section. While there are valid criticisms about the size and potentially overwhelming nature of the Hinterlands, I can’t fault the game for it. In fact, I believe that the Hinterlands are the standout feature of Dragon Age: Inquisition, with the game arguably reaching its peak early on in this region.
Hinterland Exploration
Set in the medieval-inspired world of Thedas, Dragon Age: Inquisition follows a civil war between mages and templars. The game kicks off with the explosion at a peace treaty conclave that results in the emergence of The Breach, a tear in the sky unleashing nightmares and demons. The emergence of a hero capable of closing The Breach leads to the formation of the Inquisition, an organization dedicated solely to resolving the crisis.
For any successful RPG, world-building is key. The world created for these characters must be intriguing, if not inviting, and compelling enough to entice players to explore it. Dragon Age: Inquisition nails this from the start; the Hinterlands can be described in many ways, with “immersive” likely being one of them. Serving as the introduction to the world of the game, the Hinterlands excel at immersing players in the shoes of the Herald of Andraste.
Narratively, the Hinterlands effectively set the stage for the plot, providing a glimpse into the struggles of the people, the devastation caused by conflicts, and the resilience of Thedas’ population. The territory excels in showing rather than telling, a crucial aspect in the visual medium of gaming. Additionally, it serves as a tutorial for navigating the world of Dragon Age: Inquisition, with progressively challenging enemies lurking in every corner.
An often overlooked aspect of RPGs is their similarity to coming-of-age stories. Whether playing as an underdog or an experienced warrior, players must undergo a period of growth and self-realization. The Hinterlands offer a perfect setting to explore the role of Thedas’ savior, blending everyday obstacles with more formidable challenges to build player abilities without feeling too much like a training ground.
One of the game’s highlights is the banter between characters. Running around listening to their stories, enjoying their quips, and delving into their backgrounds adds depth to the world of Thedas. These interactions help players feel truly immersed in the game, as if traversing the Hinterlands alongside their companions on a grand adventure.
The Hinterlands provide a range of experiences, from mundane tasks like collecting materials to facing dangerous demons that push players to their limits. Uncovering secret areas and unexpected encounters make the region feel alive and rich with history, unlike other parts of the game that may feel repetitive or uninspired.
Diving Deeper into the Hinterlands
While Dragon Age: Inquisition is far from perfect, the Hinterlands epitomize its strengths and weaknesses. The region’s complexity and length may test players’ patience, especially completionists. Yet, this very messiness adds to its charm and authenticity, mirroring the complexities of Thedas and the Dragon Age saga.
Like real life, the Hinterlands offer a mix of good and bad, with quests ranging from mundane to harrowing, each contributing to the lore of Thedas in its unique way. While some quests may feel tiresome or frustrating, they add depth and variety to the gameplay, highlighting the diversity of experiences players can expect in this vast high-fantasy world.
Replaying Dragon Age: Inquisition allows players to rediscover Thedas in new ways, with the Hinterlands serving as a hub of action, storytelling, and exploration. While other regions may have their high points, the Hinterlands stand out as a consistently enjoyable and engaging area that embodies the spirit of the game. Offering endless possibilities and a sense of adventure, the Hinterlands remain a beacon of immersive gameplay in an expansive and captivating world.
Despite their challenges, the Hinterlands offer a rich and immersive experience that captures the essence of high fantasy. Players may find the region vast and complex, but this depth adds to its appeal and makes it a vital part of the game’s overall narrative. Embracing the highs and lows of the Hinterlands is part of what makes playing an RPG like Dragon Age: Inquisition a truly enriching adventure.
Dragon Age: Inquisition is available for purchase on Steam.
