Dragon Age: Origins

[JackAxe]

I'm picking up my copy -- well, my license -- later this morning.

I'm going to buy the nerd edition, which is probably a mistake. Anyways, I'm actually excited about this game, so I hope it lives up to my expectations. If it's half as good as The Witcher, I'll be quite happy.

[MacRumorUser]

Let us know what you think.

[2nyRiggz]

Indeed, please let us know what you think...I was looking forward to this game until I saw gameplay of it and its not my type of RPG...I'm still holding hope that it still has real time battles and not turn based(I hate turn based)




Bless

[cubby03]

Are you by chance playing through Bootcamp? Thanks for any impressions that you can give regardless.

I am torn on which version to get. I have a Spring 2009 Mini with the higher end CPU and 4 GB of RAM hooked up to my plasma and would love to play it this way. Just not sure how it would run using XP. I keep hearing about CPU bottlenecks and that having a Quad core is the way to go.

[txa1265]

I also have the CE through Steam and will be grabbing it as soon as it becomes available this afternoon ...

[Antares]

If this post is about the computer version. Why is this in the console section?

Also, is there a version really called the "nerd edition?" What is it? I can't believe they would release something named like that. :confused:

[cubby03]

Sorry if I took it off-topic. There is no other discussion about the game on this forum and I just wondered as I am not sure which version to get.

[Huntn]

There are three versions of this game I am aware of- 360, PS, PC. So discussions regarding Dragon Age could go in either section.

I'm a sucker for good RPGs. Although opinions vary on Oblivion, I played it for 18 months, *I* found it that good! :) Regarding DAO, I'd like to know how open is the landscape? Is it total alleys like Fable, invisible fences like The Witcher, or completely open landscape (except for city/dungeon entrance loads) like Oblivion or even WoW. Yes, I prefer open environments! Would a "alleys" environment keep me from buying it? No, but most likely I'd wait to see a demo before I purchase.
Thanks.

[e²Studios]

Its installing now! I opted for the Windows version, it will have more support for mods and the fact that you can make your own cut scenes and then post them for all really interests me.

[bob5820]

Went for the PS3 version, just as a matter of convenience, I'd rather play sitting on my couch then at a computer. If you want the most options though PC looks to be the way to go.

[JackAxe]

bob5820, you know that you can plug a computer into any HD TV and even use a gamepad on one. But that's probably not ideal for everyone. ;)

The NERD edition comes in a metal box just like Metroid Prime Triology. It doesn't have as much stuff as The Witcher Enhanced, but I like the box and the tiny-little-incy-wincy cloth map.

I'm only in the first dungeon, but so far I'm really digging this game. There are LOTS of options, all very very VERY mouse happy. I'll be curious to see how they manage this on a gamepad. With pausing, that input should be a non-issue. The inventory system is WAY better than the abomination that was Mass Effect, it actually has categories, so that right there makes me happy.

I'm not sure if this game is going to have really large open areas yet, as the first part of the game has lead me down a path into a cave. The Witcher never seemed this closed off, unless I was in a house, so I'll just have to play to see how things pan out. DA seems to be a good mix of the old and new RPGs, so overhead and 3rd person. I'm finding myself more in 3rd person, since I played Mass Effect and started Jade Empire this way, but with the walls in this first dungeon and the spiders surrounding me, going to overhead has its advantages. The Witcher has an overhead feature also, but it never really seemed right playing it in that mode -- since the game was really tailored for up-close battle.

The combat is similar to a game like Diablo so far, where as you just click on what you want to attack, but the game can also be paused to do more advance tactics -- it seems somewhat similar to Mass Effect on the PC. There's the usual control over other characters, so how they'll behave when an enemy is on the screen and wait here, or move around.

Anyways, it's still too early, but everything feels right and it was easy to get into. I started on nightmare, so the EVIL spiders have already killed me twice -- I'm playing as a Dalish Elf, so I'm not sure if other characters start in the same area. I was kind of hoping for a Mass Effect intro though, where they walk Shepard through the Normandy. The intro for DA was good, but it just didn't have that grandeur that ME had the first time I played it with the music and so on and my character making an entrance. :o


Antares,

Did you not know that this game was multi-platform? Also, I'm pondering why you took my nerd-edition comment so literal I was just kidding, as paying more for a special edition of a game is generally something that a nerd will do. :P

cubby03,

I'm running on an actual PC -- i7 920(Had a Core 2 9450, but gave it to a friend and his family.). I haven't actually dealt with Bootcamp on my Core 2 MacBook pro, but have considered trying it. It only has the 1600 -- I think XT, with 256 vram, so I'm not sure how well it would do with newer games.

A quad would be better for the long run, especially with games, but current games rarely need more than what 2 cores can handle -- at least from what I've observed. The GPU is much more important, but you still need to be able to feed it, which the Core 2 level procs can do nicely. I'm not sure about the current Mini's GPU(9400m), as it's more of a low-power GPU. If anything, it's at least above the minimum requirements for this game. I'm sure it will be able to run this game at 720p on lower settings fairly good. Most of the detail in this game is focused on the characters -- mostly their faces. The rest seems kind of light in comparison, so easier for for a wider variety of comps to handle.

[txa1265]

Thing to remember - Dragon Age is the spiritual successor to "Baldur's Gate", not the shooter-centric Mass Effect or the mindless (but high quality & loads of fun) clickfest Diablo or a certain console action game with RPG-lite elements. So in terms of determining whether or not you'll like it, it is best to look at the game it derives from.

Baldur's Gate - and Dragon Age - are story and character heavy RPG's full of dialogue and options. The maps are complex and designed - it is not an open world setting, but from what I have seen the maps are a mix of small and large, constrained and fairly open.

If you are looking for a 'single player MMO' like Oblivion, this is a very different experience - there is about 10x more story and infinitely more choices with consequences in just the 'origin' stories than in the entirety of Oblivion and the expansions. That isn't a put-down for Oblivion - is it not a story & character based game and is entirely unconcerned with things like class-based development and meaningful choices. Dragon Age is.

As for combat, it is also in the tradition of Baldur's Gate and Neverwinter Nights - Real-Time with Pause (RTwP). You can play it in simulated real-time mode and it works pretty well simulating the feel of an action-RPG, but even in my limited time I can feel it is a turn-based engine underneath.

Oh - I'm playing on my unibody MBP and it is a thing of beauty in bootcamp.

[Huntn]

Thing to remember - Dragon Age is the spiritual successor to "Baldur's Gate", not the shooter-centric Mass Effect or the mindless (but high quality & loads of fun) clickfest Diablo or a certain console action game with RPG-lite elements. So in terms of determining whether or not you'll like it, it is best to look at the game it derives from.

Baldur's Gate - and Dragon Age - are story and character heavy RPG's full of dialogue and options. The maps are complex and designed - it is not an open world setting, but from what I have seen the maps are a mix of small and large, constrained and fairly open.

If you are looking for a 'single player MMO' like Oblivion, this is a very different experience - there is about 10x more story and infinitely more choices with consequences in just the 'origin' stories than in the entirety of Oblivion and the expansions. That isn't a put-down for Oblivion - is it not a story & character based game and is entirely unconcerned with things like class-based development and meaningful choices. Dragon Age is.

As for combat, it is also in the tradition of Baldur's Gate and Neverwinter Nights - Real-Time with Pause (RTwP). You can play it in simulated real-time mode and it works pretty well simulating the feel of an action-RPG, but even in my limited time I can feel it is a turn-based engine underneath.

Oh - I'm playing on my unibody MBP and it is a thing of beauty in bootcamp.

Thanks for the report! I understand the difference between Oblivion and DAO as you've described them. In Oblivion, it was the emersion factor of the wide open spaces and outstanding environment, that I found so appealing, in effect it is a solo MMO. But I admit Oblivion was far from being a perfect game. I'm still bewildered why Bethesda chose to have mostly ugly characters populating it.

Anyway emersion significantly means the freedom to roam, IMO. I really hate invisible walls, NWN2 comes to mind- You are in a swamp and when you try a make a bee-line, you smack right into an invisible barrier. Crud! The Witcher had some of those too, but I was able to play it for a while before something else snagged my attention. (WoW round 2, from which I am retired and now more focused on solo games.)

Regardless, I'll probably be purchasing DAO.

[tyler34862]

. . . Oh - I'm playing on my unibody MBP and it is a thing of beauty in bootcamp.

Hi there, I'm struggling to decide whether to purchase DA:O or not, and my computer's graphics capabilities are a big factor. I'm running an nvidia 9400m in my 13", and was wondering if your experience was with a 9400m or 9600m. Thanks!

[txa1265]

Hi there, I'm struggling to decide whether to purchase DA:O or not, and my computer's graphics capabilities are a big factor. I'm running an nvidia 9400m in my 13", and was wondering if your experience was with a 9400m or 9600m. Thanks!

9600M / 512MB graphics.

Not sure how well it scales to 9400, honestly.

[cubby03]

Thanks JackAxe! I have my Mini hooked up to my 1080p plasma. I may try the PC version tonight, hopefully it will work out.

[JackAxe]

cubby03,

Hopefully all goes well, most of the detail is optimized for being panned out on the camera -- up close somethings are downright ugly, so I can't imagine this game taxing your mini if the resolution and settings are right, especially since it was PC from the start, so they were optimizing it for much older GPUs.

++++

I've played quite a bit more and I'm glad I'm on nightmare difficulty. It keeps me on my toes. I'm just getting used to managing my current party, as the game is still mixing things up. I chose archery, as I like rangers, but I'm not strong enough, so I'm constantly having to switch to my sword since I can't kill anything from a distance.

It's worth buying Huntn. It's Bioware, so it has all the charm of their previous titles, but wrapped in a highly polished engine that carried over the best parts of their previous games. Unless this game takes a turn for the worse -- which I can't imagine, I'm going to play it again with the different races, as their stories will differ.

2nyRiggz,

As txa1265 pointed out, the game does a good job at making it seem like it's all real-time, so it's up to you if you want to run into a battle, or take a step back. I generally charge, die, then rethink my mistakes. :o

Anyways, I really hope that the improvements I'm seeing in this this game carry over the to Mass Effect 2, even though that game uses a different engine. I just need to remap some of my keys for this game so that it's like The Witcher.

[Huntn]

I've played quite a bit more and I'm glad I'm on nightmare difficulty. It keeps me on my toes. I'm just getting used to managing my current party, as the game is still mixing things up. I chose archery, as I like rangers, but I'm not strong enough, so I'm constantly having to switch to my sword since I can't kill anything from a distance.

It's worth buying Huntn. It's Bioware, so it has all the charm of their previous titles, but wrapped in a highly polished engine that carried over the best parts of their previous games. Unless this game takes a turn for the worse -- which I can't imagine, I'm going to play it again with the different races, as their stories will differ.

Bioware, makes it a big plus for me. One thing about fantasy RPGs, it frequently seems you are struggling against mobs especially as a caster. This is in comparison to Borderlands where with the right equipment, you can actually make one head-shot kills. :) I enjoy the fantasy setting but wish I had more opportunities in the fantasy RPGs to really have that supreme sense of power.

[txa1265]

Bioware, makes it a big plus for me. One thing about fantasy RPGs, it frequently seems you are struggling against mobs especially as a caster. This is in comparison to Borderlands where with the right equipment, you can actually make one head-shot kills. :) I enjoy the fantasy setting but wish I had more opportunities in the fantasy RPGs to really have that supreme sense of power.

I always play a mage, and honestly the Bioware style works better for that in the early game than stuff like the Gothic games ... (incl Risen).

I like that my little group now has my mage, an archer and two sword-wielders. It balances nicely and allows me to lend offense and support.

[MacRumorUser]

Anyways, I really hope that the improvements I'm seeing in this this game carry over the to Mass Effect 2, even though that game uses a different engine. I just need to remap some of my keys for this game so that it's like The Witcher.

Well Mass Effect 2 previewers of both the PC & 360 code have all stated that the frame-rate is smooth, and they have sorted out the streaming of texture detail so that there is no more texture load in problems.



I'm going to wait for a demo of Dragon Age before I purchase. I just don't know which version to get. I know the PC is supposed to be the best, and I do have a mac-pro & bootcamp so that's an option, however I prefer to play on consoles. PS3 version seems to have serious framerate problems outside of the usual corridors and indoor settings. 360 is supposed to be a bit muddier texture wise. If a demo becomes available for all formats, I'll try all three and decide from there. Until then my apprehension about buying a gimped version is holding me back.

[2nyRiggz]

PS3 version seems to have serious framerate problems outside of the usual corridors and indoor settings. 360 is supposed to be a bit muddier texture wise. If a demo becomes available for all formats, I'll try all three and decide from there. Until then my apprehension about buying a gimped version is holding me back.

Actually what I've read in reviews that both suffer from frame-rate issues wit the PS3 twitching a little bit more than usual but the 360 textures, frame-rate and loading times are under par of the other versions....If you can't get it on the PC it looks like the PS3 is the next best step but that doesn't mean the 360 version is bad.

JackAxe - thanks but I'm still a little iffy about the console controls...one of my friends got the game on the 360 and it seems to take a lot of unnecessary clicks to get to the magic/option you want.


Bless

[MacRumorUser]

^ I think the fact DemonSouls is on the PS3 and I'm still scraping the surface of that AAA game, so another AAA dungeon crawler vying for my time on PS3 is again making me dubious. However the PS3 version doesn't come out here for another couple of weeks, so I have plenty of time to make my mind up.

[txa1265]

Just for reference the PC version has great looks, great controls and great performance. Clearly the optimum choice ... if your PC will run it.

After dumbed-down consolitis games like Oblivion and Fallout 3, it si about time.

[Iso79]

Anyone have this game running on the latest 2.8 MBP? How's the performance?

[Acorn]

...double post....

[Acorn]

Dragon Age looks awesome. As soon as im through with Torchlight for pc (diablo 2 like game and sound with world of warcraft graphics and quests) I will pick it up.

[JackAxe]

Well Mass Effect 2 previewers of both the PC & 360 code have all stated that the frame-rate is smooth, and they have sorted out the streaming of texture detail so that there is no more texture load in problems.

It should be much improved, especially since they've had plenty of time to take in the UT3 engine. I also recall that Epic hadn't delivered on their promises, because they were so tied up with GoW at the time, so I'm assuming that's been resolved.

The changes I'm hoping for are more in user interface, mainly the inventory system. DA's UI is nice overall, so I'd like to see something similar in ME2.

I was up til 4:am last night playing. It's one of those games where as it's hard for me to stop playing once I get going. Really good RPG so far.

Bioware, makes it a big plus for me. One thing about fantasy RPGs, it frequently seems you are struggling against mobs especially as a caster. This is in comparison to Borderlands where with the right equipment, you can actually make one head-shot kills. :) I enjoy the fantasy setting but wish I had more opportunities in the fantasy RPGs to really have that supreme sense of power.

I'm getting better, it just took time and a few levels. Having a mage really helps, I just don't have the main mage yet -- what's her name.

I noticed that this game seems to focus on a rogue, even kind of singling that class out in all the attributes. Anyways, all the chests I can't unlock have me wondering if I'm really missing out, or is this another Mass Effect, where as the items are generally useless.

I like that supreme sense, but only towards the end. I'm always disappointed if I feel I didn't earn it and the game is too easy. :)


JackAxe - thanks but I'm still a little iffy about the console controls...one of my friends got the game on the 360 and it seems to take a lot of unnecessary clicks to get to the magic/option you want.


Bless

The game really does need a mouse, but that's of course not ideal in all settings. The game is good enough so far that even with the added steps I think you'd still really enjoy it. But my vote is for playing it on a comp with a mouse.

I wonder why Bioware didn't support the PS3 mouse option? Doesn't seem like it would be that much extra work to QA for over the gamepad, since they're already doing so for the PC.

I always play a mage, and honestly the Bioware style works better for that in the early game than stuff like the Gothic games ... (incl Risen).

I like that my little group now has my mage, an archer and two sword-wielders. It balances nicely and allows me to lend offense and support.

I have a similar party right now, so I'm probably in the same area. I fire on the dark spawn with my archer and mage until one of them runs close enough, then I finish them off with my sword guys. :)

I'm only level 4. :o

[MacRumorUser]

Ok so I plumped for the PC version and I'm installing now on my macpro. Just hope it's up to the job of doing the game justice. Running Windows 7 64Bit too.

If this turns out to be a disappointing game, I wont be able to trade it back in - meaning any cost saving buying the PC version is automatically null & void.




EDIT....


So installed and up and running . Running at 1920x1200 4x AA All Settings Very High.... Game looks great and plays as smooth as butter on my MacPro.

Still getting used to the controls though.

Decided to play as a MAGE first as I like all that magic ***** in games :)

So far so good.....


EDIT to my EDIT.....

OK graphics wise this game is really funny. Some really nice character models and environments, and then statues with texture and geometry that look out of a ps1 title ? Very strange. Also weird how in the gameplay world, my frame rate is as smooth as could be and never hiccups, and yet in the in-game engine cutscenes the framerate can be a little shakey ? Strange but hey ho.

[Macjames]

Really looking forward to this game, picked up the Xbox 360 version a few hours ago. I'm gutted to find that there is one, day one downloadble content pack for this game that we have to pay for, I just bought the game full price on launch day! I knew EA would be fleecing customers yet agin...:(

[SilentPanda]

So installed and up and running . Running at 1920x1200 4x AA All Settings Very High.... Game looks great and plays as smooth as butter on my MacPro.

OK graphics wise this game is really funny. Some really nice character models and environments, and then statues with texture and geometry that look out of a ps1 title ? Very strange. Also weird how in the gameplay world, my frame rate is as smooth as could be and never hiccups, and yet in the in-game engine cutscenes the framerate can be a little shakey ? Strange but hey ho.

I have all the settings maxxed out on my Windows box (quad 2.6, ATI 5870, 30" monitor) and the game runs super smooth... except as you mentioned the cutscenes. I don't think vsync kicks in on the cutscenes or something. They aren't horrid, just definitely distracting. I did notice the low rez textures on some of the environment stuff but I think that's semi-normal for things you aren't going to look at often. Heck the game is about 16GB anyway!

I am enjoying the game but I switched it down to easy. I got kinda far on normal but it got to the point where I felt I had to mico manage way too much. Fine for some, but not my preference. I also didn't care to play the rogue class in this game which is usually my favorite. You end up being a warrior in light armor anyway so there's not much point in it as far as I could tell. Although I only got to level 8 and hadn't unlocked a specialization yet. Now I'm a dwarf warrior.

[MacRumorUser]

Hooked it up to my 50" 1080p and sat on my sofa with my magic mouse & wireless keyboard and it's great :) Loving it so far, and the mage story is great if not a little too familar (very lord of the rings)...

[Huntn]

I was in Best Buy today and DAO (PC version) called to me. I knew for Vista that I'm running on my MBP, that my computers video card technically is below game specs. I took a chance and purchased it, but it does not seem to want to run. Initial splash screen comes up, then the screen turns black and the progress wheel just turns and turns.

Any suggestions? Of interest is this thread (http://daforums.bioware.com/viewtopic.html?topic=702467&forum=146) over at the DAO forums describing excrutiatingly long game load time.

[MacRumorUser]

^ For me game load times are small....

As for running on a MBP, I would have thought a 9600 up to task ?

[txa1265]

Hmmm ... I have no issues with load times - could always be shorter, but the game-to-load ratio is very high for me.

[Huntn]

^ For me game load times are small....

As for running on a MBP, I would have thought a 9600 up to task ?

Mine is an 8600M. I discovered I had about 35 Vista updates to install including two service packs. After I'm done with that I'll try it again.

[JackAxe]

None of the load times have bothered me, they've all bee small in comparison to my other favorite recent RPG. I could see load times taking longer on a notebook, since they generally ship with 5400 rpm drives.

Keep us updated Hutn, hopefully you'll get it running under Vista. I hadn't noticed until you mentioned it, that the game's requirements are steeper for Vista.

I found this thread, maybe it will help;
http://daforums.bioware.com/viewtopic.html?topic=704663&forum=146&sp=0

There's also a patch out, but it only fixes some minor issues and makes the game easier for the easy levels... O.o

+++++

OK, being able to turn my mage into a spider is GROSS! It actually bothers me and I wish I could trade it in for another skill. :o I'm afraid of spiders! They carry shotguns and eat babies.

[Huntn]

None of the load times have bothered me, they've all bee small in comparison to my other favorite recent RPG. I could see load times taking longer on a notebook, since they generally ship with 5400 rpm drives.

Keep us updated Hutn, hopefully you'll get it running under Vista. I hadn't noticed until you mentioned it, that the game's requirements are steeper for Vista.

I found this thread, maybe it will help;
http://daforums.bioware.com/viewtopic.html?topic=704663&forum=146&sp=0

There's also a patch out, but it only fixes some minor issues and makes the game easier for the easy levels... O.o

+++++

OK, being able to turn my mage into a spider is GROSS! It actually bothers me and I wish I could trade it in for another skill. :o I'm afraid of spiders! They carry shotguns and eat babies.

Thanks Jack! Thinking of Mages and Magic, just watched Harry Potter and the Order of the Pheonix. I think the climatic battle between Dumbledore and He Who Shall Not Be Named is the finest example of an on-screen magic duel I've ever seen! :) (not the first time I've seen it.)

I'm not really sure what the problem was, after fiddling I got the game running and so far it's been running at about 22fps- playable on my MBP. See my signature for specs. Things I did- played with my firewall, updated Windows with about 35 updates :eek:; updated my video driver via Windows, but I might still go back and get the latest beta Nvidia driver at Laptopstogo.com; and put the game into a window. Although my computer does *not* meet min specs as far as the game's read-me goes for Vista (see below), it is running the game well. On the first launch of the game, it seemed to take forever, like 5 min for the game to start. However, now it is starting pretty quickly. I have no idea if it is now starting faster because I installed a NO-CD patch or not.

The readme for the PC version talks about the Dragon Age updater. Based on the read-me, my impression is that it is a windows program accessible by running "services.msc". I don't see a stand alone application. Anyone know if one exists?

From the Readme:
The Dragon Age Updater is a Windows service and application that is
installed with Dragon Age: Origins. This service is used to check for
game and content updates and to manage those downloads.


DAO Min Sys Requirements:
Windows XP
----------
OS: Windows XP with SP3
CPU: Intel Core 2 (or equivalent) running at 1.6Ghz or greater
AMD 64 (or equivalent) running at 2.2Ghz or greater
RAM: 1 GB or more
Video: ATI Radeon X850 128MB or greater;
NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT 128MB or greater.

Windows Vista
-------------
OS: Windows Vista with SP1
CPU: Intel Core 2 (or equivalent) running at 1.8Ghz or greater
AMD 64 (or equivalent) running at 2.6Ghz or greater
RAM: 1.5 GB or more
Video: ATI Radeon X1550 256MB or greater;
NVIDIA GeForce 7600 GT 256MB or greater.

11/8 Update: No need to run this game in a window. The frames are just as good full screen as in windowed mode! My frames are mostly from low 20's-30's. :)

I've started a Mage but only up to about level 5 or so. This game is 100x more story driven than Oblivion, and it is excellently done. The battle between the Greywardens and the beasties (whatever they are called) is very cinematic and done in such a way that you feel that you are right in the middle of it with the important job of getting the tower beacon lit to signal the second wave of attack. I am loving this game so far. :D

[JackAxe]

Awesome! Glad to hear it's working. :)

I'm up past the tower, but not much further. I haven't been able to play since Thursday night, so I'm itching to get back into to my game.

I have a few download codes that came with my collector's edition, but have yet to put them into the game. I don't want to unlock any item or character that will make the game easier.

[andrew upstairs]

I finished last night. Absolutely loved it, and I'll start another playthrough soon.

[angelneo]

Just started the game over the weekend, pretty good. I kind of like the way they implemented the buffs and spells over what they did in NWN and Baldur Gates.

One thing I find to be very funny is when they engaged in any battle no matter how small, they will always be covered in blood splatter. Makes me feels like blood thirsty animal.

[MacRumorUser]

Awesome! Glad to hear it's working. :)

I'm up past the tower, but not much further. I haven't been able to play since Thursday night, so I'm itching to get back into to my game.

I have a few download codes that came with my collector's edition, but have yet to put them into the game. I don't want to unlock any item or character that will make the game easier.

I downloded with the codes. They appear in my downloaded catagory, but do not appear in my 'installed' catagory and therefore I don't think I can use them and have no idea as to how to install them once downloaded... It's very weird.

[SilentPanda]

The codes won't make the game that much easier. You get some rings which give you marginal benefit at best and you don't have to equip them, some dragon scale armor which is impossible to wear for a while anyway since it requires ridiculous amounts of strength to wear, and the rest of the downloads are side quests.

[JackAxe]

Good to know. I was worried they were some hold-me-hand items. :o

MacRumorUser,
I'll put in my codes and see if there's another step. I was wondering if it's like Mass Effect, where as the content just shows up in the game?

[SilentPanda]

Good to know. I was worried they were some hold-me-hand items. :o

MacRumorUser,
I'll put in my codes and see if there's another step. I was wondering if it's like Mass Effect, where as the content just shows up in the game?

Yep. Any saved games you have will be granted the items and any new games you'll start with them. The quest lines will just open up, I believe they are "started" at your party camp.

Just a heads up, there is a "bug" in the dwarf noble beginning story. (super minor nobody would probably care spoiler) --> I haven't done that story but from what I understand you lose all your items at some point. Soooo you lose your bonus content! <-- There is some save game/load game voodoo you can do after you get out of the opening story to fix it if you want.

[Tarrant64]

For those of you already playing on your mac, are you using Bootcamp, Paralells, Vmware Fusion 2/3?

I haven't used bootcamp yet but I do have VMWare 3 which I run Win7 on.

I just bought a macpro 15", 4GB RAM a couple weeks ago. I do have a Win7 Desktop if need be though to run the game.

[JackAxe]

Weird, Bioware's site won't load. They must have overloaded their new social network. :P

Thanks for the heads up on the dwarfs SilentPanda. It will be a few before I get to that race, as I like the EVIL elves. :) Gimili is by far my favorite Lord of the Rings character though.

Tarrant64,
They're using Bootcamp. It's worth setting up, if you're going to use your Mac for games like this one.

[Huntn]

I took out the ogre (I think that is what it was) at the top of the tower, doing the Mage Gray Warden quest where you lite the beacon. I assume that all classes go to the same battle after their initiation/starter areas?

For the Mage Class, you have to survive the "Harrowing", an initiation fighting a demon in a dream world, that proves you got the right Mage stuff!

Anyway the fight at the top of the tower was not fun. I took me about 10 tries to kill it. At that point, you no longer think you are on your game, but just struggling to get through. I went over to the DAO, Bioware forums and read about this fight. This is the first real boss. Seems like the best way is to kite him around the room, letting party members snipe him. When he changes his focus, change to the character that has just acquired aggro and run in a big circle so he does not smash you to a pulp! :)

But it started me wondering if I was leveling my mage properly. Don't think I was. The game is too new to have any real strategy guides online. I found this thread (http://daforums.bioware.com/myviewtopic.html?topic=705808&forum=135) of interest so much of interest I started a new elf mage and instead of focusing on self healing and power attacks, worked towards "Sleep" in Entropy and "Cone of Cold" in Primal. In groups you do seem to be more effective in fights. The emphasis for Mages seems to be on AOE attacks and crowd control that are achieved through things like Cone of Cold, Sleep, Crushing Prision, Walking Bomb, Mass Paralysis, with a little healing thrown in.

I also read about spell combos (http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Spell_Combinations) like Glyph of Repulsion + Glyph of Paralysis= a big boom. :eek: Let the games continue! :D

[JackAxe]

Cool, spell combos! I didn't know about them. I'm still figuring out the mage that joined my party though, so that's my excuse. Just made some potions for the first time. :)

I beat the Ogre on my 3rd try on nightmare difficulty. I got lucky! Oh, and I had lots of healing salves. :o


What I like about the mage and my ranger, although this is somewhat cheese, is I tend to pick off guys from a distance until they run away from their group, then they're easy to take down. Now I'm in a battle where that won't work. These EVIL refugees are after my head, so they ambush me as soon as I get close.

I like the soundtrack on this game. I really really wish they had included actual AIFF though. I can hear the compression with the included MP3s. :(

[MacRumorUser]

I beat the ogre on first try and with a Mage. :)



Though I'm playing on easy because I do not want to micro manage my team.

[Huntn]

I beat the ogre on first try and with a Mage. :)
Though I'm playing on easy because I do not want to micro manage my team.

At least you admitted your playing on nerf setting.:p Honestly I've been known to play on easy, when I don't want to work too hard. And having to micromanage a party takes a lot of the spontinaety out of the encounter and feels more like a chore. A tough boss encounter after it takes more than 3 attempts no longer feels satisfying, but annoying!

However I'd like to know, could you just stand your ground and lob spells or did you have to run around kiting it?

Herbalism: Where did you find supplies, like flasks? At the first battle location, before the fight, I'm searching. To avoid mentioning a spoiler you should probably sort this out prior to starting the fight.

Single Most Important DAO Link found so far: WikiCheats/DAO (http://wikicheats.gametrailers.com/index.php/Dragon_Age:_Origins_-_PC_PS3_XB360/Walkthrough).

[Huntn]

DAO Tip of the Day :D

Korcari Wilds: If you meet Morigan, a witch of the wild before you have explored all of the Wilds, decline her offer to meet her Mother until you have explored every square foot of the wilds. She'll be there waiting for you to come back. Once you meet her Mother, you are transported back to Ostagar. I did not check to see if the game would allow you to renter the wilds if you try to go back for a second visit. Will check that next session. Several quests there: A Last Will and Testament, Chasind Trail Signs which leads to a large cache of goodies and lots of opportunities to scoop xp.

Ostagar- When you get back from the wilds turn in your heal the dog quest and take care of the selling and stuff you want to get done before starting the ball rolling into the battle. You get some time for loot management after you complete the "Joining" quest and before the battle. After the fight, you'll find your self in a new location. I don't know if you'll be able to return to Ostagar or not. Of interest, for the doq quest, after giving the dog handler the herb (for he sick dog), he told me to come see him after the battle. I believe you are able to pick up a dog afterwards, but have not yet done it.

DAO Sidequests (http://wikicheats.gametrailers.com/index.php/Dragon_Age:_Origins_-_PC_PS3_XB360/Side_Quests).

Herbalism: The Quartermaster in Ostagar has flasks for sale to do Herbalism. I've not figured out if you get crafting XP for making herbalism items, or if you just up your herbalism skill when you level.

[JackAxe]

When I got back from the Wilds, I accidentally walked too far to the right. This triggered the cutscenes so I couldn't heal the dog or buy items, etc... :(

I was able to explore all of the wilds though. :)

I upgraded my Morigan's shape changing ability, so no more GROSS spider shape. They creep me out. I got ambushed by some in the deep forest and it made me jump. At least I didn't scream though, which is what happened to me when playing Zelda OoT early on in the game. :o

LOL MRU. Easy? I imagine your battle against the Ogre going like this clip (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVCRibG_hMY#t=1m31s) from Southpark -- ignore the music, it's all I could find. :D I admit, I like micro management, but only if the game eases me into it, which this game has done a great job at doing so. Nightmare is just hard enough, that I don't always live, so I like it! :)

++++
I'm not sure on the Herbalism either. I didn't get any XP for making potions. I need more flasks though. I ran out and should have bought more before I traveled east.

[Huntn]

I don't like micromanaging a party during boss fights. I've made a commitment to a mage and want to play the mage and let other party members do their jobs. :) However, having played several RPGs I realize jumping around characters is more or less a tradition of the genre.

I'll concede that the mage should not be the first one to grab aggro so when traveling across country, I jump to one of the soldiers to lead. Once the fight starts, I switch back to my mage.

With my second shot at a mage, I'm finding Wintergrasp, Distracted, Horror to be better attacks than my first attempt using mostly Arcane Bolt and a the L1 AOE Fire spell.

I've read different strategies for Mage one was splitting points between magic, and the other attribute that increases your mana pool (don't remember the name- constitution? wisdom?) and the other said put all of you leveling points into magic. I might see the wisdom of "all in magic" as the Level 3 skills such as Cone of Cold requires 30 points in Magic. It will take much longer to get there if you split up your points.

Dragon Age Critique- Invisible walls-yes, wide open spaces-no, jump or fall- no. Despite these significant environmental negatives that hurt immersion IMO, the game is done well enough with strong story elements, and outstanding voice acting, that my interest is still there. :)

[JackAxe]

They need to trap us in with the monsters some how, so hurray for invisible walls. :p

OK, I got my arse handed to me buy a dragon last night and the furry things I've been fighting have barricaded themselves in a room. Needless to say, I'm moving to a different area for now that will hopefully be the void of dragons. :) I can't even take on the Darkspawn that ambush me during my travels without getting massacred.

I downloaded all of my free(not really) content last night. The items showed up in my inventory when I resumed my game.

[Huntn]

If anyone finds a online DAO Class Level chart, please post a link. Thanks!

Just started a DAO Quick and Dirty (http://guides.macrumors.com/Dragon_Age%3A_Origins_Q) here at MacRumors. Feel free to contribute! The name somehow got messed up, I asked forum admin to fix it. :(

[Huntn]

I downloaded all of my free(not really) content last night. The items showed up in my inventory when I resumed my game.

Anything a mage can use? My version of the game includes some kind of downloadable armor.

[SilentPanda]

Anything a mage can use? My version of the game includes some kind of downloadable armor.

The armor requires crazy amounts of STR. Near 40. So your mage won't be wearing it. It's good for a few gold though! :) Long term the only item worth anything is the +1% xp ring... and that's even questionable.

[JackAxe]

I haven't sold that armor, but I've been tempted. :o

Here's what came with the collector's edition, which of a couple are good for mages;
*Dragon Armor
*Bergen's Honor (Helm -- need to buy it.)
*Final Reason (Staff -- need to buy it.)
*Grimoire of the Frozen Wastes( This was a level up book, which was given to me right off the bat.)
*Shale guy for fighting (I have know idea where he is.)

Originally I preordered this game from GameStop, but canceled it, but I still got the two items they were offering from my friend that works there;
*Feral Wolf Charm
*Memory Band

+++++++++

OK, Redcliffe so far has been WAY easier than an ambush! :eek: I doubt I can yet survive one at my current party's levels. Even the EVIL spiked bear and wolves maimed me in no time. The only reason I made it to Redcliffe, is because I lucked out and got a gentle passage, or something along that lines.

What's with the background noises? Some are quite good, others seem like they're Bioware joking around or something. The crying in Lothering is just bad, it sounds really fake and now in RedCliffe I can hear people screaming nothing but gibberish. I just got used to the Witcher I guess, which has excellent ambient sounds, even if some are a bit repetitive.

[Huntn]

What's with the background noises? Some are quite good, others seem like they're Bioware joking around or something. The crying in Lothering is just bad, it sounds really fake and now in RedCliffe I can hear people screaming nothing but gibberish. I just got used to the Witcher I guess, which has excellent ambient sounds, even if some are a bit repetitive.

I liked the background noises in Ostagar. It sounded like there was a lot going on in the background, like preparing for battle.

I've got a link for PC cheats- one of them supposedly breaks the max size of your party of 4. Why would I like doing that? Well I resent having to give up my dog! Anyway yes it's cheating, but at times I prefer coasting in a game. However I've not gotten it to work yet. :p

[JackAxe]

Did you get it to work? :)

There would have been a few fights that having one extra party member would have made a big difference.

I bought a G15 keyboard for the backlight, because it was on sale for $49 down from $99 last year, anyways its little screen is compatible with Dragon Age. It shows me the stats of the selected character, or I can hit a hotkey to switch to their stats. Nothing big, but I like it.

If you haven't already gone to the Mage Tower, it's well worth the trek. I leveled my character quite a bit there, and there were some really nice bonuses.

[SilentPanda]

I bought a G15 keyboard for the backlight, because it was on sale for $49 down from $99 last year, anyways its little screen is compatible with Dragon Age. It shows me the stats of the selected character, or I can hit a hotkey to switch to their stats. Nothing big, but I like it.

This has been excellent for me. I can't read the health bars in part due to color blindess. Being able to see at least one party members health is nice. Although IMO they could have put all 4 no problem.

[JackAxe]

I never really thought about that tid bit for health bars, just reticules. The screen is nice. I like that it's a clock when not in use by a game. :)

This keyboard has made things a bit easier for me, as I can now see which key I need to hit. I'm still getting used to typing on it though, as I normally use an ergonomic one, which I'll continue to use on my Mac.

[e²Studios]

This has been excellent for me. I can't read the health bars in part due to color blindess. Being able to see at least one party members health is nice. Although IMO they could have put all 4 no problem.

There are 3rd party G15 codes that will give you what you are looking for. Look on g15forums I believe its called. Google for it, there is a mod for the G15 that shows athe whole party.

[SilentPanda]

This keyboard has made things a bit easier for me, as I can now see which key I need to hit. I'm still getting used to typing on it though, as I normally use an ergonomic one, which I'll continue to use on my Mac.

My biggest issue was my left hand started being one key to the left due to the G-keys. I am used to it now but at first it was odd.

There are 3rd party G15 codes that will give you what you are looking for. Look on g15forums I believe its called. Google for it, there is a mod for the G15 that shows athe whole party.

Ah I'll have to do that. Thanks!

[JollyRogers]

*Shale guy for fighting (I have know idea where he is.)



The Shale "guy" quest is pretty good and having Shale on your team sure beats Alistar and the other goon. At least Shale has some wit about him. He is pretty good in battles and doesn't require upgrading armor etc... He is a sarcastic ba$tard towards "it" :) Find him, itz worth it.

[MacRumorUser]

The Shale "guy" quest is pretty good and having Shale on your team sure beats Alistar and the other goon. At least Shale has some wit about him. He is pretty good in battles and doesn't require upgrading armor etc... He is a sarcastic ba$tard towards "it" :) Find him, itz worth it.

He's in a cage in Lothering isn't he ?

[lancestraz]

He's in a cage in Lothering isn't he ?
That's Sten. Who is a humanoid. Shale is a big rock lobster. I mean monster.

[Huntn]

Did you get it to work? :)

There would have been a few fights that having one extra party member would have made a big difference.


Here are two cheat links which I also added to the MR DAO Quick and Dirty (http://guides.macrumors.com/Dragon_Age:_Origins_Quick_and_Dirty):

*VGStratagies CHEATS (http://vgstrategies.about.com/od/pccheatsd/a/Dragon-Age-Origins-PC-Codes.htm).
*CheatCC CHEATS (http://www.cheatcc.com/pc/dragonageoriginscheatscodes.html).

So far I've not gotten it (the cheat that allows you to break the party limit) to work. With cheats in other games, usually a console window opens and you type in the code. I've modified the game's shortcut on the desktop as per instructions, and I programmed the key to open the console, but no console window opens, and the game is not put into a paused mode (a secondary indication you are in the console). Finally I don't know when I should be putting in this cheat- if you enter it at any time or if you do it on those rare occasions when the party window opens.

BTW, can you pull up the party window (where you pick party members) at any time? If so how? Or can it be done only when you run into a new person who is eligible to join?

[MacRumorUser]

That's Sten. Who is a humanoid. Shale is a big rock lobster. I mean monster.

Oh sweet...... Man I can't wait to find that creep (he sounds like someone i'd hang around with) LOL!! ;):):p

[SilentPanda]

BTW, can you pull up the party window (where you pick party members) at any time? If so how? Or can it be done only when you run into a new person who is eligible to join?

I haven't look at your links but in reference to this, I believe the party window opens every time you leave camp. Also at other various times too of course but this is one way to trigger it.

[ravenandcrow]

Wondering if I can get any assistance regarding running DAO on my Macbook Pro. I'm *attempting* to run it through Parallels 4, only because I'm having trouble setting up Bootcamp on this machine (gives me a message about not being able to partition the disk because some files can't be moved).

So, I'm running XP SP3 with, from what I can tell, the appropriate C++ updates and so on. It installs fine and I can configure and get to the title screen, but when I click New Game, it collapses and give me a generic "DAO has encountered a problem and needs to close" message.

I'm on a 2.2 GHz dual core with 4GB of mem, running OSX 10.5.8 with a GeForce 8600M card. Any ideas?

ANY help at all is insanely appreciated. It's driving me crazy.

[JollyRogers]

Wondering if I can get any assistance regarding running DAO on my Macbook Pro. I'm *attempting* to run it through Parallels 4, only because I'm having trouble setting up Bootcamp on this machine (gives me a message about not being able to partition the disk because some files can't be moved).

So, I'm running XP SP3 with, from what I can tell, the appropriate C++ updates and so on. It installs fine and I can configure and get to the title screen, but when I click New Game, it collapses and give me a generic "DAO has encountered a problem and needs to close" message.

I'm on a 2.2 GHz dual core with 4GB of mem, running OSX 10.5.8 with a GeForce 8600M card. Any ideas?

ANY help at all is insanely appreciated. It's driving me crazy.

I got it to run via wine. I used macports and installed the dev-wine package. It works, but I get a redraw issue on my ATI card. I had to tweek the Direct3D settings for wine to make it work and the dragonage.ini file also. It's playable though, with no movies. Also had same issues using crossover games. If you want the full DAO experience, bootcamp is the way. I can't help with Parallels, sorry. Just thought I would give you some other ideas.

Maybe try editting the ini file to lowest settings?

[Huntn]

I haven't look at your links but in reference to this, I believe the party window opens every time you leave camp. Also at other various times too of course but this is one way to trigger it.

Leave camp? I'm at town just N of the first battle and I'm not sure what is considered "leaving camp." The only time I've seen the party window pop up is when you run into someone new who could join your party.

Regarding the cheats I noticed they have different instructions. I tried the one that tells you to remap the console key from X to Q. That one did not work. I'm gonna try the second one that says use the tilde key to pull up the console and will report back.
Thanks!

[JackAxe]

I'm in Redcliffe again and I can change out my party members.

JollyRogers,

I just got the control staff and a map location of a golem, I'm assuming that's the Shale guy? :)

+++++++++

My characters are all about level 10 and I still can't survive an ambush by a pack of wolves without being munched to death. :eek:

[JackAxe]

I tried to save the refugees, but failed miserably. It took me a few attempts just to keep all of my party members alive. :o I noticed that the refugees could take more hits from the magic wielding big guy in that area, than Alistar (too lazy to check the spelling) in full armor.

Also, why can't I KILL A PACK OF WOLFS? I think the ambush wolfs are made out of titanium or something... They're way stronger than most Darkspawn I encounter.

[Antares]

Do you all think a Mac native version will be released? If not, I could always get the PC version. Essentially, I would prefer to play with a mouse and keyboard (the best for this type of game) as opposed to a console version. Though, I only have a Jan 2006 iMac (2.0 GHz Core Duo with 256 MB video card...top of the line, then). I also only have Windows XP installed via Parallels 4. I have a sinking feeling that it would not perform very well on my current system.

Alternatively, would I have just as much fun picking up the PS3 version? Does anyone who owns the PS3 version have some feedback on it?

[MacRumorUser]

Do you all think a Mac native version will be released? If not, I could always get the PC version. Essentially, I would prefer to play with a mouse and keyboard (the best for this type of game) as opposed to a console version. Though, I only have a Jan 2006 iMac (2.0 GHz Core Duo with 256 MB video card...top of the line, then). I also only have Windows XP installed via Parallels 4. I have a sinking feeling that it would not perform very well on my current system.

Alternatively, would I have just as much fun picking up the PS3 version? Does anyone who owns the PS3 version have some feedback on it?

From your specs I'd go with the PS3 version tbh. If you haven't setup bootcamp etc, it would just save you so much hassle.

[JackAxe]

The guy I spoke to briefly at Frys owned DA on the PS3 and was quite happy with it.

I looked to see if there were any reviews on both and found this one from that Kotaco (http://kotaku.com/5397283/dragon-age-origins-+-playstation-3-versus-pc) pit. The reviewer played it on the PS3 first and said he had a damn good time.

My MacBook Pro is around the same as yours, it's a first gen Core 2 with a 1600(XT?) 256, but I'm still running Tiger, so I'm not sure if I can even install Bootcamp on it, or else I'd give it a try.

Anyways, it's such a great game, if the PS3 is your best option, definitely go for it. If anything, at least you can rent and try it on the console.

[Huntn]

I finally noticed the Party link at the top of the interface for gathering your group- duh...

If you are a combat Mage, what do you guys think is the best party for adventuring? I like both Alistar and Morrigan, and currently have Sten in my group. I've heard Wynne is pretty much indispensable for healing if you don't wanna do it, but I've not run into her yet. Companions (http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Companions).

Quest help- where is Witherfang (http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Witherfang)? warning: link includes spoilers. I've been in both the East and West Bricillian forests and no luck so far.

Spoiler Territory:Anyone who has dealt with Witherfang, how did you handle it? Based on the link, there seems to be 3 options. However, my "persuasion" skill has never been high enough so I doubt I'll be able to achieve the most desirable outcome.

[JackAxe]

This is how I found Witherfang;
"Hid-ified"
I helped the Great Oak -- I think this was his name -- with the task of retrieving his achorn. But I asked what he'd give me in return before accepting the task, which he offers a piece of his wood. This wood is actually a wizard staff, which until recently was what I was using for Morigan, as it was a good item. This staff is also a key to unlock a foggy mist area(some kind of barrier) that's between the east and west entrances -- sorry, not at home, so not sure which map area this was called.

Anyways, once you pass that barrier, you see Witherfang's wearwolfs. I actually have not fought Witherfang yet, as they barricaded themselves in a dungeon. I ended up leaving that area, because the only route lead to a dragon which kicked my party's arse at that time.

I learned from Mass Effect to invest in persuasion, so mine is almost maxed out. :)

I finally lived through a wolf Ambush, but just barely! :D Now that I've done so, along with the Darkspawn ambush and the messed up bear and wolf ambush, the game has thrown harder ambushes at me. O.O

Anyways, the game is awesome. I probably should have gone to the dwarven area much earlier, as it's too easy for my party right now. I had to leave Dreaden -- think this is the name, because I couldn't take on some of the mercenaries in the back alleys. :o

[Huntn]

Spoiler Test start here:This is a test of the MacRumors spoiler quotes. Read End (highlight in between).

Jack, thanks for the info on the Werewolf! Yeah persuasion, I'll have to start putting some points there. Too bad they don't enable spoiler quotes here...but again thanks for the tip on how to do it. :)

[JackAxe]

No problem. :)

Did you find the dragon? I've killed baby dragons, but that one ate my party alive. I think my characters were about lvl 7 at the time.

And for those that visited the dwarven area, which candidate did you support? I chose Bhelen, as before I knew what was going on, I was suckered in to doing a task for his side.

[Huntn]

No problem. :)

Did you find the dragon? I've killed baby dragons, but that one ate my party alive. I think my characters were about lvl 7 at the time.

And for those that visited the dwarven area, which candidate did you support? I chose Bhelen, as before I knew what was going on, I was suckered in to doing a task for his side.

Yes I found the baby dragon who made quick work of my L8 party, as in killing them in about 2 draughts of fire each. I thought I had a chance when I froze him...nope. ;) Sounds like a good idea to do him later.

Regarding persuasion attributes, it looks like "cunning" is the thing to invest in. Maybe when I get back here, my cunning will be higher for negotiating the between the elves and werewolves. I'm headed over to RedCliff now to help those guys. Two of my party member thought we should not help the Earl, but hey, that's why I'm playing the game!

I've used my herbalism skills and my impression is that you don't get any xp for making stuff, you only get to up your herbalism skill when you level and spend a point on it. Can anyone confirm? Thanks!

With the dearth of herbalism recipes, I'm starting to think that poison would be a better skill to invest in.

[JackAxe]

There's dragonlings later in the game that can't fly, they're killable. :D

I think the reason they don't provide experience for herbalism, is because one can create an item while paused in the middle of a battle. I'm assuming I'll get XP though, if I complete a quest in the Dwarven area that requires expert herbalism.

There's not that many shops that sell injury kits, so having the recipes available and items to create them has been really useful, especially when I'm deep in a dungeon.

[MacRumorUser]

Still playing as a Mage on my mac pro. Decided to try installing it on my MacBook pro for the craic, was surprised to see I could play at 1440x000, settings on high/very high with 2x AA as well. With such an optimized engine, why is the console ports so fugly?

Also side note the choppy cutscenes are no longer choppy when played on my MacBookPro. I think my 256 Gb SSD is helping rectify that too.

[JackAxe]

The memory limitations definitely plays a roll. The only difference I've really seen is lower rez textures and less environment shadowing on the console version, both of which need more ram. There's a lower polycount on the console, but not where it matters.

I found this comparison (http://au.gamespot.com/features/6239466/index.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=picks&tag=picks;title;4) the other day. Overall they all look fairly close.

Anyone else notice that some of the hands on the NPCs are kind of huge?

Anyways, I was unable to play this weekend, so I'm having withdrawals, so I'm going to head out early so I can resume my addiction. :)

[tofagerl]

I'm zooming through on my MBP 2.8 17" at full res with medium graphics, high textures.
Unfortunately, the zooming refers only to the graphics, as my poor mage has made some wrong choices in her skills...
Might have to reroll or download a mod.

[JackAxe]

The game is HUGE, so you'll have plenty of time to grab other skills and smooth things out. :)

My only regret, is that I chose the warrior class for my Dalish Elf not realizing that I wouldn't be able to specialize in ranger. Bleh... =\

++++
OK, Jarvis is EVIL!!! I need to level my entire party some more, as she's just nasty!

[Pyras]

So JackAxe,
Is this game playable without having bootcamp or whatever that is? Just on straight windows leopard? Is that what you meant by its multisystem or whatever you said?
Thanks

Edit..
Not windows Leopard haha.
The Mac Operating System Leopard

[MacRumorUser]

So JackAxe,
Is this game playable without having bootcamp or whatever that is? Just on straight windows leopard? Is that what you meant by its multisystem or whatever you said?
Thanks

Edit..
Not windows Leopard haha.
The Mac Operating System Leopard


Multi Format.

Availble on various formats / systems.

In this case PC, PS3 and Xbox 360.


In order to play this on a Mac you will need windows installed via bootcamp.

(bootcamp is a utilty inside your applications/utilities folder which simply partitions non destructivly your macintosh HD, giving you space to install Windows Xp, Vista or 7. It adds a choice of operating system when your computer starts by pressing the option/alt key. And also set of mac hardware drivers for once yor windows OS is installed)

In all it takes about an hour to setup and install a full copy of windows, with all the drivers etc.

For gaming on a mac with windows software/games then it's best to use bootcamp.

.....




Oh and I just bought this on PS3 too (along with pc) :)

Thought on PS3 version. Radial menu takes some getting used to, especially after the pc version. Graphically it's grand though there appears to be some motion blur filter applied to cover the framerate but it's not really succesful. Frame rate does hitch and even when installed on a PS3 with a 200/200mb fast SSD it still does it. It appears to be an issue with content streaming from the BR disc not the HDD at factor here. Hence I'm not sure they will be able to patch it.

[JackAxe]

60 bucks US for a second copy of a game. Dude, that's crazy, I would have just rented it for the PS3, if I had one. :D

I got killed by another dragon, but this one was fully grown... I reloaded my game and didn't go that way. :o

What's the best way to earn gold? Some of these items are like 120 gold and the most I've had at one time was about 25 gold.

Oh, and one last ramble. For a BONUS armor that's backed with marketing, the Dragon Armor in the game doesn't even use a higher-rez texture. Oh well, it's cool to have though, until I can buy something better, which will be a really long time it seems.

[MacRumorUser]

60 bucks US for a second copy of a game. Dude, that's crazy, I would have just rented it for the PS3, if I had one. :D

Traded in couple of old games that havent even loaded in over 18months and got Dragon Age on PS3 for €15. So not too bad. I'm playing as a Mage on my powermac. A rogue elf on my macbook pro. A woman dwarf on my ps3.....

Oh and I haven't got any time left to play anything else now :D

[JackAxe]

Yeah, I can see why you wouldn't have time to play anything else. :D

Holy pooooh! I didn't realize until today, that on the PC version, one can drag the bottom bar out for more tactical slots! :eek:

[Huntn]

This post involves a serious story spoiler concerning Red Cliff and the Earl. So stop here if you don't want to know!

* SPOILER Below
* SPOILER Below
* SPOILER Below
* SPOILER Below
* SPOILER Below

What would you do?

Spoiler Start: You go to Red Cliff (as a Mage) and find that the castle is over run with undead and such, and Jowan, the Blood Mage you knew from the Circle of Mages has poisoned the Earl on behalf of the new rogue king. In addition, Jowan has taught the Earl's son some magic and the son, Connor has made a deal with a demon to keep his father alive, but Conner is now possessed by said demon who has unleashed all sorts of misery and death on the castle and the village of Red Cliff.

You have two choices:
1. Kill Conner to get rid of the demon.
2. Allow his mother to sacrifice herself in a blood magic ritual performed by Jowan so your mage character can kill the demon in the Fade and save the son.

I've played through the second scenario where I killed the demon in the Fade to save Conner while sacrificing his mother. I restarted the sequence and am now trying to kill Conner, which is more difficult due to the number of mobs who come at you inside the castle.

Despite knowing that I can have this play out either way, this scenario really made me think. On one hand Conner has made a deal with the devil so to speak to save his father, but at what cost? Look at all the people dying because of his decision. But he is just a boy, so should he be held responsible? His Mother does not want him to die and freely wants to sacrifice herself to free and save him. I found this to be a moral dilemma. What would you do? If I could only do this once and not know the outcome, my initial feeling was that the boy should be killed. :Spoiler End.

Can anyone tell me if this scenario is presented the same way if you are playing another class? I assume you would still run into Jowan in the dungeon and learn what he has done (even though if not a Mage you would not know who he was from your days in the Circle). Can classes other than Mages enter the Fade?
Thanks!

[JackAxe]

There's a 3rd option. :)

Start-ify:
There was an option in the text that was something along the lines of "There has to be another way?".

I chose that path and they stated that a group of mages from the tower with enough Lyrium could also perform the task and no sacrifice would need to be made, but it was a days journey to that place, so to hurry.

I took that option and found that the tower had been overrun by abominations, so I had to first clear it out and save the main mage before I could complete the other quest with the child Conner.

Anyways, see if you can unlock that option, even if you need to go up a lvl or so to up your persuasion -- I'm not sure if it's needed though? It was a really good place to level up my entire party and IMO it was well worth the effort.
:End-ify

Quick ramble, the ice storm + the electric storm is nasty. :D Oh, and there's ice -- or some kind of magic-ice-trap -- in the game and your characters can actually trip. They have to make a saving roll to see if they can stand up. :)

Is there another backpack? I bought one at the Mage tower a while back, but I need another one now. It's getting a bit annoying that I'm teetering on the edge with my inventory being full, as I have items that I really don't want to drop -- like for making potions, etc.

[Huntn]

There's a 3rd option. :)


You are right, I remember it now. You know how they present it, there seems to be a rush to get the job done, or take the time to travel for the lyrium and then get bogged down doing other quests. After fighting our way into the castle, I did not think the travel option realistically would be a good one. Especially after Conner's Mother told me, "Conner does not have a lot of time". Of course we are playing a game. ;)

You are farther into the game than I am. I purchased 1 backpack (was it from the dwarves in camp?) Hmmm, such a lousy memory I have. I'd like to add that info to the DAO Quick & Dirty guide. Anyone?

Also looking for opinions on the best party grouping. Right now I've got my Mage, Morrigan, Alistar, and Sten. What do you use?

[lancestraz]

Also looking for opinions on the best party grouping. Right now I've got my Mage, Morrigan, Alistar, and Sten. What do you use?
You should probable have a rouge (Leliana or Sevran) in there to disarm traps, picklocks, and stealth. If you use your mage to dish damage then you might want to swap morgan with Wynne for some healing power.

[JackAxe]

I found my second backpack in the camp, but I swear I had looked there yesterday.

I have Morrigan, Alistar, and Leliana, and my character is a warrior/archer(maxed), with berzerker skill and now champion. I agree with lancestraz, having a rogue really helps out. :)

I gave Morrigan a heal spell, but mostly I use the healing salves, which she can also make. Her big spells are absolutely great at clearing a room.

[Huntn]

Thanks! I just added Zevran, the assassin, to the dismay of my other party members. :)

And I just updated the Dragon Age Origins Q&D (http://guides.macrumors.com/Dragon_Age%3A_Origins_Quick_and_Dirty). If you see any errors or needed additions, please let me know, here or by PM.

Good info here: http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Dragon_Age_Wiki

[MacRumorUser]

There's a 3rd option. :).

I just did this last night with my Mage.

My god that tower level went on for ages, and lots of puzzle elements too. One question though Jack.

* *

When you did it. Did you have to go into the FADE and clear that massive level too as you aren't a mage ? (as I supposed that only Mage's were allowed into the fade).
* *



For my main game (not one of my many others ;) ) I'm a mage with Humpalot (my custom doggy), Wynne & Morrigan.

[Huntn]

I plan on adding Wynn to my team when I run into her. After I did the Castle RedCliff encounter, the game is leading me toward Denerim, to find info about the Sacred Urn.

DragonAge Origins World Map (http://dragonage.bioware.com/world/).

[tofagerl]

Just entered denerim a few days ago. Not played since, away from home, but I can't wait to see what happened there. Did NOT like that elvish assassin I met on the road though.

[JackAxe]

I massacred that Elvish Assasin on nightmare-difficulty and now he's one of the party members I can choose. :P But I have yet to pick him. :)

I've made it pretty far along and have done the urn and so on, but what I really like about this game, is that there are still areas I can't go any further, as there's one guy/creature that's super nasty that eats my party alive and this is after killing everything in its wake.

Are you adding Rogue abilities to your party Huntn? I have a couple of healing spells with Morrigan now, so not only does she nuke and freeze, she revives and heals, so I haven't had a need for Wynn. If you do the mage tower quest to save Connar, you'll get her.

I guess the backpacks are randomly placed. I found 2 more yesterday and they were much cheaper than my first two purchases.

There's a Dragon Age Book available (http://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Age-Origins-Collectors-Official/dp/076156246X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259660481&sr=1-1), but I'm glad I passed on it, as it contains tons of spoilers. I'm going to buy it after I finally finish up this game though.

Are there any bows in the game that can be upgraded with runes?

[tofagerl]

In the end I decided against respeccing. Turns out having a DPS/Healer in addition to the main healer is really smart since I suck!!!

;p

[sikkinixx]

Okay.

So


I just got this game for $free.99 from a deal at EA (along with Skate 2 <3 ) for the 360... should I even open it? I would much rather play on PC as the 360 version is said to look horrible and run not much better. Plus I can't imagine playing Baldur's Gate on a controller... What to do?! Anyone need a console copy? :o

[MacRumorUser]

I've played all versions now.

PC version is much more tactical and is certainly the best looking and doesn't require earth shattering system requirements. HOWEVER there is a bug at the moment that causes a memory hole. The longer you play the game the worse performance becomes. The solution offered on bioware dragon age forum is to simpy save and restart the game.


The PS3 version is an interesting one indeed..... here's the deal and I have been corresponding with Bioware forum about my experience playing the game.

My Slim PS3 with an upgraded 128GB SSD plays the game well. The frame rate is less than 30FPS at all times it seems, but it still is solid and the graphics are not bad at all. Basically somewhere between the medium/high setting would be a close approximation.

HOWEVER. On my standard PS3 with 250GB HDD the game has MANY issues. Bar the irritation of save game being copy protected. But far worse than that little irk the game stutters and stammers all over the place. Cutscenes are really bad (glitchy) with characters and objects popping in and out. Dialogue is often missed when communicating with other characters too. Also the dynamic in game music will often stall for a second or two also. Loading times are often very slow too, and even in game menu access to items and such is laggy.

Basically it seems the PS3 version has some serious issues with disk access & blu-ray streaming in unison/tandem unless you have an expensive and very fast SSD to alleviate the problem.

It really is a case of two utterly different experiences, and if I had not got the SSD in my PS3 and was playing the dire experience I get on the HDD, I think I probably would give up.


I have played the 360 version over at a friends, simply because I wanted to see the difference myself. To be perfectly honest it's not that much different to the PS3 version. There are the odd texture here different but nothing to write home about. What I did experience however is that the frame rate is so much better than the PS3 on either SSD or HDD. Gameplay is smooth, menus responsive and dialogue isn't skipped either. Install the game to the HDD on the 360 and the load times are as fast as my PS3 with SSD. Cutscenes are also less glitchy and do run better when installed to the HDD too.

If looking to buy a console version, and from playing both, I personally would gladly take the odd texture hit (which you barely notice) for the much smoother experience overall on the 360.

If your happy with tactical gameplay ( personally I never use the over-head / isometric view on my pc version) over a more arcade experience then go for the PC.

However I preferred laying back on the sofa with the controller and being immersed in the story more than hunched over my keyboard.

It's basically down to personal preference in that regard. The story remains fantastic no matter if your playing console or pc.

[Huntn]

I massacred that Elvish Assasin on nightmare-difficulty and now he's one of the party members I can choose. :P But I have yet to pick him. :)

I've made it pretty far along and have done the urn and so on, but what I really like about this game, is that there are still areas I can't go any further, as there's one guy/creature that's super nasty that eats my party alive and this is after killing everything in its wake.

Are you adding Rogue abilities to your party Huntn? I have a couple of healing spells with Morrigan now, so not only does she nuke and freeze, she revives and heals, so I haven't had a need for Wynn. If you do the mage tower quest to save Connar, you'll get her.

Your a more competent player than I am or you have developed your character better than I have. :) I'm switching to "easy" for some of the encounters. The elf assassin is a rogue and he is now part of my active party. In real life, I don't think I would be able to trust him, but this isn't real life.

[MacRumorUser]

^ I just picked him up too..... but not in that way ;)

[Huntn]

^ I just picked him up too..... but not in that way ;)

You killed him or let him live or met him in something other than a roadside ambush?

[JackAxe]

I spend most of my time in a paused state as I slowly move through each battle. Of course that doesn't always help, I just end up delaying my death. :o

+++++

I like the initial characters the most, as the story seems to be about them, but I could be wrong? It's funny hearing them bicker back and forth on different points. This is what I also liked about Mass Effect. Anyways, I'll need to just walk around with some other characters to hear what they have to say. The only other characters I've used have been Wynn and a dwarf -- forget his name?

On nightmare level, the game progression is somewhat slow, so the story comes and goes for me, so I doubt I'd ever get a full story immersion like Mass Effect as an example. I prefer being right in front of my screen, as it consumes my entire vision. I also bought Logitech G35s last month and they not only block out the sound around me, but actually do a great job with 3D audio, noticeably better than my Sennhieser HD555s. Anyways, I can also focus on even a tiny TV from a far and be consumed by it, I just like being able to see things more clearly -- which being close helps -- as my eyes aren't 20/20 anymore, so far is bad. :O

Anyways, here's this again, so we can all ogle at the PC's texture quality (http://au.gamespot.com/features/6239466/index.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=picks&tag=picks;title;4). ;)

[MacRumorUser]

You killed him or let him live or met him in something other than a roadside ambush?

I meant he wasnt 'picked up' in The Ghey™ way.




Anyways, here's this again, so we can all ogle at the PC's texture quality (http://au.gamespot.com/features/6239466/index.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=picks&tag=picks;title;4). ;)

As I said earlier though, whilst the PC does have better textures & frame-rate it's a trade off if you prefer playing with a control pad over a keyboard n mouse combo.

PS3 & 360 are nearly identical though.

Also the textures are more like a film with subtitles. As long s your swept up in the story you end up enjoying it and forgetting that there was even subtitles there.

Unfortunately the frame-rate, serious glitches & audio drop outs are more damaging to game enjoyment / immersion.

[JackAxe]

EVIL thumb devices and their thumb ways! :)

I played through many RPGs on a gamepad, two of which are still some of my favorites(Phantasy Star 2 and Buck Rogers Doomsday device), so I'm just being a turkey.

++++

I haven't played since the weekend, so I'm now pondering to myself why I'm posting on this site, when I can be exploring. Oo

[MacRumorUser]

So has anyone else brokeback mountain'd their leather fetish elf yet :D

[JackAxe]

Nope, just you! :P

OK, I've found I think 4 glass vials that when broken released a revert -- which I then killed. I recall reading a note that there are 6 total. Anyone else found these things?

Oh, I got the Juggernaut armor from the wood area, speaking of reverts. It's not as good as the Dragon Armor, but like my Bergen(I think this is how it's spelled) helmet, it looks 10 FOLD BETTER than the cheeseball low-rez texture Dragon Armor they created probably last minute as a bonus -- I really hate this armor and its glowing crap, but I like its bonuses.

Anyone else made it to the (*partial spoiler*) Broodmother I think that the crazy lady running around prior is Branka -- I think this is her name.<<<

A new patch is out. It lessens the time the cold spell lasts, which I'll admit I've been leaning on as a crutch, BUT that's because some of the battles haven't been scaling properly from what I've read. Anyways, I actually like the sharp changes in difficultly in this game.

[MacRumorUser]

Played some more PC version yesterday. It's vastly more difficult for me than the PS3 version. :(

[Huntn]

A new patch is out. It lessens the time the cold spell lasts, which I'll admit I've been leaning on as a crutch, BUT that's because some of the battles haven't been scaling properly from what I've read. Anyways, I actually like the sharp changes in difficultly in this game.

It's been over a week since I've played. Will get back to it soon. Does the patch make it harder or easier? If easier I'm sure to install. :)

Played some more PC version yesterday. It's vastly more difficult for me than the PS3 version. :(

You know, content on consoles is nerfed compared to PC versions. :D

[JackAxe]

It's been over a week since I've played. Will get back to it soon. Does the patch make it harder or easier? If easier I'm sure to install. :)

I didn't notice a difference. But the cone does seem shorter now. But if anything it supposedly does balance the game better.

Speaking of hard, there's a guy in a room in a town that EATS my party alive. I've been going back to him every so many levels to try and destroy-ify him, but even at lvl 17-ish, my party can't survive.

And speaking of leveling. I forgot to manage my camp characters, since I turned off auto level. Glad I caught it though and got everybody up and equipped with better armor and so on, because one of the characters has been forced upon me by the game to continue the story and he would have sucked.

++++

I just saw your question MRU about the Fade. Sorry I missed it. I used Morrigan for the quest that specifically required a mage.


++++

You guys have probably arleady figured this out, but giving enough gifts to
supporting characters unlocks bonuses on their primary attribute.

[Huntn]

I didn't notice a difference. But the cone does seem shorter now. But if anything it supposedly does balance the game better.

Oki. I'm currently using a NoCD patch so will probably update the game soon.

Speaking of hard, there's a guy in a room in a town that EATS my party alive. I've been going back to him every so many levels to try and destroy-ify him, but even at lvl 17-ish, my party can't survive.

What town?

And speaking of leveling. I forgot to manage my camp characters, since I turned off auto level. Glad I caught it though and got everybody up and equipped with better armor and so on, because one of the characters has been forced upon me by the game to continue the story and he would have sucked.

I'll have to look for the auto level settings. I think I have mine on auto, but don't remember for sure.

I just saw your question MRU about the Fade. Sorry I missed it. I used Morrigan for the quest that specifically required a mage.


Thats a good tip for the Q&D.

You guys have probably arleady figured this out, but giving enough gifts to supporting characters unlocks bonuses on their primary attribute.

Just put that in the Q&D. :)

I'm running around Denerim trying to figure how to get through one of two giant gates to find the whore house, the Pearl? Hints? One gate controls access to the elven orphanage where the guard tells you to get lost. Does the other gate control access to the docks?

[JackAxe]

The town be Denerim. The guy be EVIL!!!! That's all I'll say. He's a side quest. :)

I didn't know of a NoCD Patch, I'm assuming it doesn't cause problems?

I haven't been through either gate yet, both are still locked.

To get to the Pearl, read the note on the wall next to the elf gate from what I recall. This talks about Grey Wardens.

If that doesn't open it, talk to the to the head of security(Forget his position) -- he's next to Wade's armor -- and offer to help him clear up the problems in the city outskirts. This opens up 3 more areas outside of the Pearl.

+++++
Oh, I think if you press TAB, it highlights selectable items and names. Whatever key it is, I assigned it to my thumb button on my N52TE, as it helps me to find items and so on while exploring. It will hi-light the mentioned note purple, so that it's easier to see from a distance. Anyways, I got used to The Witcher, which does the same thing, that's why I set it up this way.

[Huntn]

The town be Denerim. The guy be EVIL!!!! That's all I'll say. He's a side quest. :)

I didn't know of a NoCD Patch, I'm assuming it doesn't cause problems?

I use it so I can keep my original disk at home when I hit the road. You only have to be careful if you are going to apply a patch. I would make sure there is a NoCD patch for the latest official patch before I updated.

I haven't been through either gate yet, both are still locked.

To get to the Pearl, read the note on the wall next to the elf gate from what I recall. This talks about Grey Wardens.

If that doesn't open it, talk to the to the head of security(Forget his position) -- he's next to Wade's armor -- and offer to help him clear up the problems in the city outskirts. This opens up 3 more areas outside of the Pearl.

I read the note on the wall. I did get the quest to clear up roving gangs, but that must be another area. Thought it was in the town where I was. Maybe not, I've seen no roving gangs.

+++++
Oh, I think if you press TAB, it highlights selectable items and names. Whatever key it is, I assigned it to my thumb button on my N52TE, as it helps me to find items and so on while exploring. It will hi-light the mentioned note purple, so that it's easier to see from a distance. Anyways, I got used to The Witcher, which does the same thing, that's why I set it up this way.

Maybe another tip for the Q&D. I'll give it a try. :)

[JackAxe]

I bought the Prima collectors guide, so let me check with what they say about the Pearl, as it's been a while since I opened that area.

CRAP, I just read something I shouldn't have... Oo

Weird, The Pearl isn't listed in this book, or I missed it while skimming? I just recall that location was available when I left Denerim the first time. It showed up as an icon on the city map along with the roving gangs.

[Huntn]

I appreciate your help and I'm a duntz. I did not remember Denerim was a town with a city map and selectable destinations. :\ I found the Pearl. And I may have found the bad person you mention, maybe not, but in a deserted warehouse, there is the leader of the Blood Mages. This room as two powerful Blood Mages, and my party can't take them on "easy". Very sad. I went away and will try another day. :)

There are times when I wish I could just worry about my character and not try to do better by switching around. In the dual Blood Mage fight, if I focus on one of them as my primary mage, I've all most killed him, but the problem is the other Mage and the sword wielding grunts. Near the end of the fight, I'm the only one left and all the mobs pile on me. :) If I had a wish for this game it would be to be able to give group orders, such as "go in and kill the blood mages first" as they are the most powerful, but the easiest to kill. For me this makes the game more difficult than it should be.

[JollyRogers]

I appreciate your help and I'm a duntz. I did not remember Denerim was a town with a city map and selectable destinations. :\ I found the Pearl. And I may have found the bad person you mention, maybe not, but in a deserted warehouse, there is the leader of the Blood Mages. This room as two powerful Blood Mages, and my party can't take them on "easy". Very sad. I went away and will try another day. :)

There are times when I wish I could just worry about my character and not try to do better by switching around. In the dual Blood Mage fight, if I focus on one of them as my primary mage, I've all most killed him, but the problem is the other Mage and the sword wielding grunts. Near the end of the fight, I'm the only one left and all the mobs pile on me. :) If I had a wish for this game it would be to be able to give group orders, such as "go in and kill the blood mages first" as they are the most powerful, but the easiest to kill. For me this makes the game more difficult than it should be.

The first set of hard blood mages... I open the door and do the inferno spell. Close the door and listen to them die! Then I Open the door, do the blizzard spell and send my party in to wreak havoc upon them !!! muahahaha!

The Boss Blood Mage. He almost gets me, but again, the use of blizzard and ensuring I equip my ranged weapon rogue with some ice arrows, does it. Concentrate my npc's on him and take him down first, then move onto the others.

My problem is getting my arcane warrior to actually be worth a damn as a warrior... need ... level... 16.

[Huntn]

The first set of hard blood mages... I open the door and do the inferno spell. Close the door and listen to them die! Then I Open the door, do the blizzard spell and send my party in to wreak havoc upon them !!! muahahaha!

The Boss Blood Mage. He almost gets me, but again, the use of blizzard and ensuring I equip my ranged weapon rogue with some ice arrows, does it. Concentrate my npc's on him and take him down first, then move onto the others.

My problem is getting my arcane warrior to actually be worth a damn as a warrior... need ... level... 16.

I should have mentioned my party is at level 10. Does that matter? Ok, so how do you concentrate your npcs on him? Do you jump around and select them all to attack him?

If I have a gripe about this game it's the pitifully small areas between screen loads. Now if you could walk the entire town, that would be impressive. :)

I didn't know of a NoCD Patch, I'm assuming it doesn't cause problems?

I'm living dangerously these days. I'm away from home, don't have the original DVD, but I went ahead and applied the new 1.02 patch because there was a 1.02 NoCd.exe available. My source is Game Copy World (http://www.gamecopyworld.com/). Their disclaimer is that if you use their stuff you must own the game you are downloading for... I use it strictly for the ability to play the game while traveling and leave the original DVD at home.

[JackAxe]

I appreciate your help and I'm a duntz. I did not remember Denerim was a town with a city map and selectable destinations. :\ I found the Pearl. And I may have found the bad person you mention, maybe not, but in a deserted warehouse, there is the leader of the Blood Mages. This room as two powerful Blood Mages, and my party can't take them on "easy". Very sad. I went away and will try another day. :)

There are times when I wish I could just worry about my character and not try to do better by switching around. In the dual Blood Mage fight, if I focus on one of them as my primary mage, I've all most killed him, but the problem is the other Mage and the sword wielding grunts. Near the end of the fight, I'm the only one left and all the mobs pile on me. :) If I had a wish for this game it would be to be able to give group orders, such as "go in and kill the blood mages first" as they are the most powerful, but the easiest to kill. For me this makes the game more difficult than it should be.


Nope on the mage being the EVIL. All the the guys in the warehouse except the mini-boss were a breeze, but only because I encountered them at LVL 14-ish from what I recall. It was when my Morrigan had the lighting storm, but not the ice storm. The main guy was fairly easy to take down, but only because I got him to run out of the room alone. :)

I have a cheese tactic, where as if needed and the area allows it, I'll sometimes move far enough away that the game will think the battle is over, then I'll save and recharge before going back in to kill the rest.

The guy I'm referring to isn't really a guy, he just poses as one. He's behind one of those doors in the back alleys. :O

[MacRumorUser]

The guy I'm referring to isn't really a guy, he just poses as one. He's behind one of those doors in the back alleys. :O

You on one of your dodgy nights out Jackaxe :rolleyes:



:D:D:D:D





I hope back alleys wasn't a euphemism...

[MacRumorUser]

OMG.. Best conversation ever.

So I 'shafted' my elf chum and anyway in my party are elfy boy & shale and they strike up a conversation between themselves.

Lets just say it was the funniest thing I've ever heard in my life.

Shale made reference to elfy boy & my mage coupling, and that there will be kids next.

Elfy say's that's highly unlikely, and as much chance of shale of reproducing.

Shale then says that they are created by grabbing the golden rod.

Elfy intimates his relationship with my mage is much the same..


:D:D:D:D


Did I get the extra smutty camp version of Dragon Age or somthing :D

[JackAxe]

That sounded weird, I probably should have rephrased it differently. :)

To clarify, this guy is not a woman, AND you have to knock on the door and respond in the right way to get it to open it. THEN PREPARE TO BE WORKED!!! Now if the room weren't so small, I might have a chance like I did with Reverts early on when I really wasn't strong enough to fight them, but this guy is WAY more powerful than those foes. Not only does he have skills like pull, but cone freeze and cleave(hits all of my characters in one swing). I usually get him down about maybe 15% before my party dies. I figure that when I'm about lvl 22, I'll be able to kill "IT."

[Huntn]

Nope on the mage being the EVIL. All the the guys in the warehouse except the mini-boss were a breeze, but only because I encountered them at LVL 14-ish from what I recall. It was when my Morrigan had the lighting storm, but not the ice storm. The main guy was fairly easy to take down, but only because I got him to run out of the room alone. :)

I have a cheese tactic, where as if needed and the area allows it, I'll sometimes move far enough away that the game will think the battle is over, then I'll save and recharge before going back in to kill the rest.

The guy I'm referring to isn't really a guy, he just poses as one. He's behind one of those doors in the back alleys. :O

Oh... I'm level 10ish. I decided to come back later. You are so smart...how did you get him to run out of the room alone?? :p

[JackAxe]

Archery! I ran out of the room right off the bat on my second, or third attempt from what I recall. My first encounter left me dead quickly. :o I was expecting him and his supporting mages -- I think there were two? -- to be as easy as the rest of the blood mages I had encountered. (Even after it automatically saved my game and then showed me the cheesy confrontation.)

Oh, this was the area my party slipped on what I originally thought was ice. I found that really funny, as it was unexpected. :)

On the archery, I found that some enemies -- always the lower ones -- will come chasing after you if you hit them from a distance. This has been really useful -- SUPER useful in the wilds. Now I can kill some guys with one shot and take down others before they get to Alistair -- he's my tank.

Have you started on the dwarven area yet?

Fug, I'm tired. Anyways, I look forward to getting back on this game, hopefully later today. I'm behind on a project, which was supposed to be all working yesterday, so my clients aren't too happy with me.

[Huntn]

Archery!
I have tried some different techniques, but have not focused on archery. I'll try that now. The problem with the head Blood Mage is that it seems like you have to go into that room to start the encounter and then you are locked in. But I'll see if I can shoot anyone prior to committing.

Have you started on the dwarven area yet?

I need to go there. Or should I go to the circle before doing the dwarf area?

I went to Denerim because that is where I needed to go to get info to continue the quest looking for the...the... you know that thing to save the guy at Redcliff. Once there, I tried to complete as many local quests as I could. Oddly enough I ended up warning some blood mages, the authorities were coming for them, and then I started taking out blood mages in the deserted warehouse, hmmf.

[JackAxe]

After you talk with him, you'll be able to run your party out into the hallway.

Archery is quite useful, but only because of my other party members. I had to max it out before I really starting seeing a benefit. Now I'm always looking for a better bow. I want one that has rune slots! :)

The Broken circle is easier, so I'd go there first. I'm at the very end of the dwarven area that I know of and it had 3 really freaking hard bosses.

I got side tracked with the dwarven area, then when I got stuck there and was a few more levels headed back to Denerim, which I had left earlier, because I was getting worked by the the last back alleys encounter. Anyways, I hadn't asked any further about the ashes, so the blood mages building wasn't available on my map. I think I finished the werewolve quest before the ashes quest.

[JackAxe]

OK, this is a cheesy spoiler, but I found it funny:
*That bastard Zevran turned on me and attacked me during an ambush by his fellow crows. Anyways, I reloaded my game, removed all of his armor and weapons, so this time when he popped up during the confrontation, he was in nothing but his underwear and of course an easier kill. :]*

Huntn,

Have you chose a dwarf to support yet? I just finished this quest.

[Huntn]

OK, this is a cheesy spoiler, but I found it funny:
*That bastard Zevran turned on me and attacked me during an ambush by his fellow crows. Anyways, I reloaded my game, removed all of his armor and weapons, so this time when he popped up during the confrontation, he was in nothing but his underwear and of course an easier kill. :]*

Holy crap, I've been using that guy extensively. :eek: I wonder if there is any way to avoid it? I might have to dump him and go back to Leliana, the former priestess rogue girl I picked up in Lothering, that first little town I stumbled into a while back.

Huntn,

Have you chose a dwarf to support yet? I just finished this quest.

I've not come across a dwarf who offered to join my party. Maybe because I've not done the dwarf area yet?

[lancestraz]

Holy crap, I've been using that guy extensively. :eek: I wonder if there is any way to avoid it? I might have to dump him and go back to Leliana, the former priestess rogue girl I picked up in Lothering, that first little town I stumbled into a while back.
If he likes you enough he will stay and fight with you.

[JackAxe]

I didn't exactly try to keep him. I kind of said get to the point, or something. :o

OK, I killed a high dragon and made armor out of it, but YET, I can not KILL that GUY in the back alley! :eek: I got him down to about 30% with luck, before my entire party was dead, but all my other attempts weren't even close.

Bleh, must KILL-i-FY IT!!! I have a feeling I won't be able to do so until my entire party is at max level. Maybe I should try with Shale.

[JackAxe]

I KILLED Gaxkang! :D He is BY FAR the hardest battle I've fought so far and the EVIL I've been mentioning. My characters are all level 19 and as noted earlier, this is on nightmare difficulty.

He's worth destroy-i-fying, as he has a really nice item. :)

Anyways... :D :D :D

There's a bug in the game, where as if you have a Tome of Physical Technique in your inventory, the Tome of Archane Techniques won't work. I had to use the physical books first, then the mage books to get them to register with Morrigan -- I bought 2. :)

[JackAxe]

Gaxkang was the hardest battle in the entire game for me. :)

Anyways, the credits for this game take about 19 hours to scroll through, if not 3 months, since they decided to list every single person that has ever worked for EA!

[Huntn]

If he likes you enough he will stay and fight with you.

Oh, good, I've been working on his friendship. I guess the outcome remains to be seen.

Gaxkang was the hardest battle in the entire game for me. :)

Anyways, the credits for this game take about 19 hours to scroll through, if not 3 months, since they decided to list every single person that has ever worked for EA!

The guy in the Denerim back alley who sounds like a girl through the door?

[JackAxe]

Funny, I don't recall him sounding like a girl. :D

But he's in the back alley and you have to knock on the door and say the right thing to get in, then he brings on a TON of hurt!

I started on my second play through on nightmare again. Even though wolves are still a EVIL SOBs (That will eat my entire party alive if I get rushed by all of them at once!), I'm able to survive most battles without anyone dying. I killed the ogre on the first try when going up to the tower to light the beacon. I even killed the EVIL spiders in Loathering-er-town-place without an issue.

Anyways, I chose a rogue this time around specializing in dual weapons. I'm also tinkering with traps making.

[Huntn]

I KILLED Gaxkang! :D He is BY FAR the hardest battle I've fought so far and the EVIL I've been mentioning. My characters are all level 19 and as noted earlier, this is on nightmare difficulty.

Grats dude! My nightmare difficulty on some occasions is "normal difficulty". ;) Ok, tell me how many time do you have to repeat fights to succeed? Come on be honest!! For me if I have to repeat a fight more than 3 times, it is no longer fun and more like work. And it completely removes the spontaneous, I can take on anyone feeling because in real life you'd be dead after the first failed fight. :p

Funny, I don't recall him sounding like a girl. :D

But he's in the back alley and you have to knock on the door and say the right thing to get in, then he brings on a TON of hurt!

I started on my second play through on nightmare again. Even though wolves are still a EVIL SOBs (That will eat my entire party alive if I get rushed by all of them at once!), I'm able to survive most battles without anyone dying. I killed the ogre on the first try when going up to the tower to light the beacon. I even killed the EVIL spiders in Loathering-er-town-place without an issue.

Anyways, I chose a rogue this time around specializing in dual weapons. I'm also tinkering with traps making.

Oh, I thought someone (you?) said he sounded like a girl through the door, really... :)

I've been taking this game slowly over the holidays. I just finished the Broken Circle/Lost In Dreams quests at the Mage tower. They were great. Nothing too hard to fight. :p And I got Wynn (the healling mage) who I'll be keeping. This game does not seem to me to be very craft friendly. I went with herbs, but then discovered that another of my party also does herbs, so I should have done poison or traps. I need to find that re-spec mod that someone mentioned. Why not re-spec? Did it all the time in WoW. ;)

[Huntn]

And I just finished the Witherfang encounter in the Brecilian Forest- very enjoyable! Happy new year! :)

[JackAxe]

Yep, Happy New Year! :)

Yep, I liked that quest, especially because there was more to do in that area after completing it.

OK, on that quest, I sided with the werewolves at the end, BUT yet afterwards I got ambushed by them. Now in my book that I bought, which I'm reading over now, as I've finished the game, it states that that ambush should not have happened and that the werewolves should have been fighting the darkspawn and needed my help.

On the fights and repeating them, outside of the bosses and EVIL ambushes, most battles were fairly easy once I figured things out -- especially with Morrigan's freeze cone and later her blizzard nuke -- so rarely did I have to approach any fight more than once. With two archers, a mage, and a tank, I was able to keep large groups at bay and fight only a small number at a time, which was very manageable.

If I did hit a wall where as I could not win a battle after a few attempts, I'd leave that area as to not spoil the fun and go some other place I could level. The only non-boss that really kicked my arse, was a Genlock I encountered in the Dalish ruins at the very beginning of the game. I think I died about 8 times before I got lucky and killed that mofo.

I did die about a dozen times on Gaxkang alone, but since he wasn't a game stopper I never got frustrated.

Anyways, the game's battles were kind of unbalanced, where as Branka was somewhat easy as an example, but a lesser rogue from DustTown -- forget here name -- took me about 4 or 5 trys to bring down.

I mentioned in response to MRU, that Gaxkang wasn't a woman, maybe that's where you got it? :)

[Huntn]

The Respec Mod (http://social.bioware.com/project/469/) you all have been clamoring for. Here it is and it works beautifully (the one time I used it!) Now I can see if I can fight any better with new spells. :) Read more in the DAO Q&D (http://guides.macrumors.com/Dragon_Age%3A_Origins_Quick_and_Dirty) here at MacRumors. See the Game Mod section of the guide.

Suggestion: Consider backing up your saved games before using this mod. How? See the MacRumors DAO Q&D.

More DAO mods (http://social.bioware.com/browse_bw_projects.php) here! Have you DAO women wear sexy undergarments!!

[Huntn]

Yep, Happy New Year! :)

Yep, I liked that quest, especially because there was more to do in that area after completing it.

OK, on that quest, I sided with the werewolves at the end, BUT yet afterwards I got ambushed by them. Now in my book that I bought, which I'm reading over now, as I've finished the game, it states that that ambush should not have happened and that the werewolves should have been fighting the darkspawn and needed my help.

spoiler>Did you get the elf guy to volunteer to kill himself to lift the curse? <spoiler. That's what I did. Happy ending. He lived too long anyway. :D

On the fights and repeating them, outside of the bosses and EVIL ambushes, most battles were fairly easy once I figured things out -- especially with Morrigan's freeze cone and later her blizzard nuke -- so rarely did I have to approach any fight more than once. With two archers, a mage, and a tank, I was able to keep large groups at bay and fight only a small number at a time, which was very manageable.

If I did hit a wall where as I could not win a battle after a few attempts, I'd leave that area as to not spoil the fun and go some other place I could level. The only non-boss that really kicked my arse, was a Genlock I encountered in the Dalish ruins at the very beginning of the game. I think I died about 8 times before I got lucky and killed that mofo.

I did die about a dozen times on Gaxkang alone, but since he wasn't a game stopper I never got frustrated.

Anyways, the game's battles were kind of unbalanced, where as Branka was somewhat easy as an example, but a lesser rogue from DustTown -- forget here name -- took me about 4 or 5 trys to bring down.

When I die more than 3 times, it's time to switch to "easy". I don't like micromanaging a group. It takes a lot of the fun out of it, if I have to constantly switch around to different characters. But with the party concept I do like if I get tired playing a mage, I could switch to another class if I wanted.

I mentioned in response to MRU, that Gaxkang wasn't a woman, maybe that's where you got it? :)

Maybe. :)

I am not convinced I have the best class builds. If anyone finds a good DAO class build resource especially for mages, I'd like a head up. It seems like with the different mage spell trees you end up duplicating some capabilities, for example, enhanced party weapons, I'm happy with just one, like telekenetic, but I've also go cold weapons which I supposed in some instances might make a different. I've decided the Mage speciality spell tree is not that good. Now that I have the respec mod installed, I can experiment on the best spell build to have.

Jack, what mage specialty did you go for? In the Witherfang quest I saw that area in the ruins, where (I later found out) you can get Arcane Warrior, but then I got swept up in the fighting and quest conclusion and promptly forgot about it. I'm half way through the Haven temple, and decided to break off and go get trained as an Arcane Warrior. I was sure Arcane Warrior would be a good fit but now Wynne (my primary healer) is talking about dieing a lot and I'm not sure how long she will be with me. Anyone know how long she lasts? I like not being the dedicated healer. :)

[Huntn]

I've had a chance to play around with new spells with my mage. I was really comfortable using the cold spells, including blizzard. I'm still convinced that blizzard is better than earthquake, however, blizzard is at the top of the cold spells (which I may reinvest in the future). Some of these new skills are killer 2 click kills which I've not had before. I'm thinking Petrify-Stonefist or Crushing Prison. Sleep followed by Horror is also pretty good...

My understanding is with the arcane warrior mage specialization, you can now wear armor. However, at this point I'm not sure I want to give my mage magic attributed clothing for real armor. Should I?

[JackAxe]

Yep to your question about the spoiler at the end of the werewolf section. Persuade is a good skill. :)

CHEATER! :D *I kid* The only time I really had to micro-manage to the point of being anal, were on the super hard battles, like Gaxkang or the Corrupted-Spider. But I don't mind managing my party. It does make some battles easier, it's why on my second play-through I haven't been dying like I was in the first game -- except for the EVIL WOLVES!!!

For Morrigan I went with Spirit Healer, since I didn't use Wynne. It really helped later on, since beyond the nukes, her close attack weren't as powerful as the rest of the party.

Thanks for the links. :)

Blizzard is actually quite useful. Combine it with earthquake or another nuke spell -- probably not Inferno(since it's fire and melts ice.). It will knock down all in its area, freeze most of them -- more than once, and do damage. When coupled with Tempest as an example, most will die before its time is up, or be quite low in health.

I never put armor on Morrigan, since rarely was she in line of sight of being attacked and I also didn't want to give up the benefits of mage clothing. If anyone got too close to her, they were frozen or repulsed by mind-blast, or Alistair or my warrior/archer could draw that attacker away. I would only do Arcane Mage, if I wanted my mage up front, so something I'll try in one of my future play-throughs.

Oh, and don't worry about Wynne dying, unless there's some way to kill her. :)

[Huntn]

I never put armor on Morrigan, since rarely was she in line of sight of being attacked and I also didn't want to give up the benefits of mage clothing. If anyone got too close to her, they were frozen or repulsed by mind-blast, or Alistair or my warrior/archer could draw that attacker away. I would only do Arcane Mage, if I wanted my mage up front, so something I'll try in one of my future play-throughs.

Oh, and don't worry about Wynne dying, unless there's some way to kill her. :)

You know about Wynne right? spoiler> She would be dead if not kept alive by a Fade spirit.<spoiler. Maybe Bioware justed added this in to worry me. ;) I've spent so much time healing as a priest in another game in WoW, I really don't want to be a healing mage so arcane warrior seemed like a natural choice. I let my tank stand out front so, I'm thinking of keeping her (my mage, not Wynne) in her magic attributed clothing. However now she can carry magic swords! The choices never seem to be clear. ;)


CHEATER! :D *I kid*

You referring to the respec mod? Well, why the heck not? :D A real mage versus the ignoramus player (me), it is a necessity! The real mage should have received some training in their lives. When players jump in we don't know squat. The game doesn't even offer mage education. ;)

[JackAxe]

Nope, didn't know that about Wynne... DAM YOU. :D

That's what I like about this game, the choices are rarely cut and dry. It really makes me think about weather or no I want to equip any given item. Then whenever I did get an item that is clearly better, it made me happy. :)

I was joking about the cheat, since you were choosing easy, but come to think of it, CHEATER!!! :D

I agree with what you say. The game throws you into things with little to no help. I really didn't have a grasp on things until much later in the game. Now when I read the descriptions on skills and so on, it makes sense, but that's because I spent so much time learning. :o

Bioware does include a tutorial under other campaigns that might be helpful? I have yet to try it. Anyways, after so many games holding my hand unnecessarily, I like how this one just said f-it and kicked me arse from the get go with only a bit of minor help.

Anyways, this book I bought from Primas is overall helpful, maybe something worth considering. There's lots of info and descriptions to look through, but on the down side, it's kind of a poorly structured book. It doesn't even have an index and it really does need one.

[Huntn]

I agree with what you say. The game throws you into things with little to no help. I really didn't have a grasp on things until much later in the game. Now when I read the descriptions on skills and so on, it makes sense, but that's because I spent so much time learning. :o

Bioware does include a tutorial under other campaigns that might be helpful? I have yet to try it. Anyways, after so many games holding my hand unnecessarily, I like how this one just said f-it and kicked me arse from the get go with only a bit of minor help.

Throwing you into a game without any class knowledge takes away from immersion imo. There is a tutorial?

Anyways, this book I bought from Primas is overall helpful, maybe something worth considering. There's lots of info and descriptions to look through, but on the down side, it's kind of a poorly structured book. It doesn't even have an index and it really does need one.

Yes I have purchased strategy guides before (Oblivion, WoW) but hate shelling out $20. Maybe I should buy a used version. Next time I'm at a store, if I can find one, I'll thumb through one and see how good the info is.:)

[JackAxe]

I agree with that about immersion, but if anything it's another reason to play through more than once. :) It also kind of works with the game, where as you're a new Gray Warden, so inexperienced... I guess. :o

Yep, under Other Campaigns there's a Demo Tutorial, at least on me game.

For about $24 it's hard cover. :)

I like books, but if it's not a book on programing, art, or some kind of reference, I'm usually weary about its price. But for this game I was happy to fork out the doe. Speaking of books, I just ordered the Mass Effect Art book on Amazon as I've been wanting it for some time.

[MacRumorUser]

HELP!!! :)


First thing. God I hate the PS3 save system. Forgot to save. Played for 2 hours last night. Got killed. AutoSave was about 1.5 hours behind where I was :rolleyes: Totally killed my momentum in the game. Now I have to re-tread and have same conversations in order to gain the same skills as I had just earnt. Real bloody pain, but my own fault for not saving I guess.

Secondly. So have you killed Flemeth, or did you opt to just keep her alive and take the grimore ? I opted to kill, but she turns into a mammoth dragon and fried our asses including poor old shale... What did you do and whats the best way - any repercussions in keeping her alive to the overall story ?

Thirdly. PC wise have you installed any of the texture packs ? I tried installing the JB texture pack and put the override folder into my Core folder, but I'm not sure i'm seeing any difference in game ?

[JackAxe]

That bites! I lost an entire day with Zelda NES, because when I got up to get a drink, I bumped the NES and the cartridge flew out -- the lid was broken off -- and I hadn't saved the game. :)

For your second question:
**I killed Flemeth, but much later in the game and after I had killed the high-dragon, so I figured I had a chance. My characters were about about lvl 18-ish. She massacred me the first time also. I figured since she admits to Morrigan's accusations, she needed to die.

At first I thought if I talked to Morrigan again, she would bring it up, but she doesn't that I encountered.**

Nope on the texture packs, but I'm going to look for them now. Hopefully if it does work, it replaces the crappy-looking Dragon Armor.

[Huntn]

I agree with that about immersion, but if anything it's another reason to play through more than once. :) It also kind of works with the game, where as you're a new Gray Warden, so inexperienced... I guess. :o

Ah, but you were a mage with presumable some experience and maybe went to mage school? ;) I just finished the Earl quest, fought and puzzled my way to the sacred urn on the mountain top shrine over by Haven. Another good quest under my belt. I really enjoyed puzzling and not having to fight my behind off for a change.

Regarding the comment about losing progress on PS3. I've always wondered if there was a way to backup my 360 game saves... I've got auto save turned on for my PC version, but at times the auto saves don't happen nearly enough especially in successive fights where you are just hanging on between each encounter.

[Huntn]

Secondly. So have you killed Flemeth, or did you opt to just keep her alive and take the grimore ? I opted to kill, but she turns into a mammoth dragon and fried our asses including poor old shale... What did you do and whats the best way - any repercussions in keeping her alive to the overall story ?

Thirdly. PC wise have you installed any of the texture packs ? I tried installing the JB texture pack and put the override folder into my Core folder, but I'm not sure i'm seeing any difference in game ?

Your Flemeth spoiler, is this later in the game? spoiler>What do you do with her daughter if she is in your party, dump her?
<spoiler

Regarding textures, I'm happy with the appearance of my game. Maybe I'll snoop around for some comparison shots between stock and the upgrade.

[JackAxe]

So just like real schooling, where as it never really prepares you for the real world -- well the game world. :) Maybe they needed more detailed descriptions of each skill/spell? The descriptions really didn't click with me until after I had played for some time and had reference to what they were describing.

I like puzzles quite a bit, but also battles that really keep me on me toes. Speaking of puzzles, I need to start on the new Zelda DS game.

On the Flemeth spoiler:
**Morrigan is the one that asks you to kill Felmeth. I won't say why, unless you want to know?**

Speaking of her daughter, I know you're a mage, but she's quite useful in the game and at the end... Well... I can't say, as it's a HUGE spoiler. :o

[MacRumorUser]

Flemmeth..

Yep the flemmeth quest relies on you doing something and giving something to someone, and then going somewhere in order for the conversation to come around when your someone happens to be somewhere talking to someone in regards to the something you found somewhere earlier.....

I imagine many of the side quests and party quests are missed simply because you never achieve the full 'somethings' in order to initiate them. :D

The sad part about this post is when you've actually done it. That first paragraph makes perfect sense....... LOL

[pcypert]

Finally got it and enjoying it. I think I'm about halfway in on 360 version. I have had some save problems as well... at least it trying to go to weird save point after death and my having to manually reload auto saves or whatever. Also reordering the save game file numbers. Still that rarely happens. Playing an Elf Rogue and it's fun... now wishing I'd done Shape Shifting Mage or something though for a bit more fun... seems higher you go can't really sneak up on people for attack anymore :(

[JackAxe]

A rogue on a high enough level can pretty much sneak up on anybody. :)

Shapeshifting is EVIL, because it involves a NASTY SPIDER! :eek:

[Huntn]

So just like real schooling, where as it never really prepares you for the real world -- well the game world. :) Maybe they needed more detailed descriptions of each skill/spell? The descriptions really didn't click with me until after I had played for some time and had reference to what they were describing.

I like puzzles quite a bit, but also battles that really keep me on me toes. Speaking of puzzles, I need to start on the new Zelda DS game.

On the Flemeth spoiler:
**Morrigan is the one that asks you to kill Felmeth. I won't say why, unless you want to know?**

Speaking of her daughter, I know you're a mage, but she's quite useful in the game and at the end... Well... I can't say, as it's a HUGE spoiler. :o

Reagardin the Spoiler, I don't want to know. Hmm, now I'm wondering what is the best party makeup? Currently running with Alistar, Wynne, Lielana (sp?- the rogue), and my mage. I thought a rogue in the party would be better than three mages and a tank, but I remember someone mentioning they were using 3 mages. We may have talked about this before, I see Wynne as a must healer. I'm trying to turn my mage into dps mage, but Morrigan did a good job as an attack-mage. The choices continue! What do you think?

[JackAxe]

Since you're interested in DPS, make sure you bump up Leliana for close battles and definitely focus on her rogue skills. Then your character and Wynne can sit in the back for support, which should balance things out.

I stayed with Morrigan, Leliana, and Alistaire in my first game when my character was a Warrior(Archery maxed). This time around I'm choosing them again, but I'm focusing on dual weapons with my rogue, since Leliana has decent archery from the start, so I'm going to bump her to max on that skill this time around and leave mine secondary for support.

Morrigan with Spirit Healing can take the job of Wynne later on, which is what I did.

OK, this isn't really a spoiler, but just a heads up as it relates to the question about party member. Don't neglect your other party members when it comes to armor and so on, because there's a point you'll have to rely on only them.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

OK, MRU, your posts sometimes magically appear. The one right of pcypert wasn't there earlier today. :eek:

[pcypert]

I haven't read the whole thread so maybe this has been said, but who got the greenlight to basically mash up LOTR and WOW? I'm loving the game but can't we get a touch more original???

I'm wanting to replay, but not really looking forward to going through all the dialogue again. Wish there was a bit more free fighting and freedom to move about, but otherwise a really, really solid game (even considering all the glitches - this on 360 version... odd save problems and about 10 times now I've had to completely retread a conversation, sometimes three times in order for the game to advance)

[JackAxe]

You didn't read any reviews before buying? :p *I kid* I didn't, but I did watch the promos and it was pretty clear this was a LOTR rip before buying it, especially with the Darkspawn and unite the kingdom fluff.

I don't mind that this game is so similar to LOTR, nor do I mind the Warcraft 3 type controls -- I don't play wow :o -- and Bioware in their interviews mentioned they intentionally made the game more familiar to MMO players. It works! :) I think if it were a game made by a smaller company, it would be a bit more original. Speaking of which, give The Witcher Enhanced a try -- it's pretty original for being so familiar, if that makes sense?

What really stands out for me with this game are the characters and their interaction. It also has few somewhat gray areas that helped make the game for me -- not as much so as The Witcher, but at least it's not all B&W.

On the PC, the battles are more like a traditional RPG, which I really like. So generally I'm panned out all the way so that I can see the bigger picture and carefully plan where my characters are, who they're attacking, and so on.


That sucks about the save and dialogue. I like the dialogue, but I haven't had to repeat much of it, so I can see how it would wear thin. The game is HUGE, so I spent more time exploring than talking.

Anyways, I'm on my second play through and I like it just as much as the first time. This time around though, I'm noticing more things since I already know how to play and not everyone is a stranger.

[pcypert]

Yeah, just had another glitch in the abondoned orphanage. This one was massive and I had to go way back to find a save before I entered the alienage even. Sucked.

BUT even with that I'm still enjoying myself. About to wrap up the first play through as a saintly doo-gooder (who still manages not to do all right I'm noticing). Going to do the next play through as incredibly selfish guy... just to add Fable clone to the mix :P

I hope Bioware stays with this. I love their games and the direction this one is heading. Hope to see something else soon... and hopefully with a fresh story.

[MacRumorUser]

OK, MRU, your posts sometimes magically appear. The one right of pcypert wasn't there earlier today. :eek:

Lol. That's because i post them as in 'rogue' form and sneak them in there :D

[Huntn]

Since you're interested in DPS, make sure you bump up Leliana for close battles and definitely focus on her rogue skills. Then your character and Wynne can sit in the back for support, which should balance things out.

As I've spent enough time considering the leveling path of my primary character, mostly I've been letting party members auto level unless I'm looking for a specific skill like uping their poison skill. I have no idea what bias the game has in auto mode. I'd hope but would not presume that auto leveling is the best way.

[Huntn]

I haven't read the whole thread so maybe this has been said, but who got the greenlight to basically mash up LOTR and WOW? I'm loving the game but can't we get a touch more original???

I'm wanting to replay, but not really looking forward to going through all the dialogue again. Wish there was a bit more free fighting and freedom to move about, but otherwise a really, really solid game (even considering all the glitches - this on 360 version... odd save problems and about 10 times now I've had to completely retread a conversation, sometimes three times in order for the game to advance)

I played years of WoW and hardly cared about the background story really. At times I did. For DAO, I'd say this is one of the game's strongest features. I find character's situations in many cases to be compelling. A better game if you don't like "story" would be Dungeon Siege, more fighting than talking. ;)

[JackAxe]

Lol. That's because i post them as in 'rogue' form and sneak them in there :D

I guess! Because that was the second post I completely missed... That I know of. :eek:

[pcypert]

Man the 2nd play through is buggier than the 1st (360 version). Now playing through as Arcane Mage and some serious lock ups/won't let me move forwards. Stuck in infinite dialogue loop in the fade on Wynne's character. System seems to have lots of trouble registering kills... maybe I'm too good and they happen too fast :) But when I kill things sometimes it takes as long as two minutes to register things as killed and let me loot their corpses. Worse is when I need or want to save, but it still has me registered as in a battle in the system even though there's no one about and I just have to run around till the system refreshes or whatever it's doing....

Paul

[JackAxe]

Well that really sucks, but glad you're making it through. Some games are worth a bit of hassle.

As for your comment; "System seems to have lots of trouble registering kills... maybe I'm too good and they happen too fast...," I have a solution (http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0302727) that's probably not practical, but will keep up with anything this game throws at it. :)

[pcypert]

Well I'm on 360 version, but as soon as the new Imacs are sorted I'll have that processor in a shiny new (hopefully not too yellow) screen :)

Played through this time as an a$$... not as rewarding as in Fable series. Just better for a chuckle for me, but nothing of benefit to me. Also didn't realize how easy it'd be to lose some of my party. Not going to spoil anything, but some that have played through might realize some of the choices you have to make. I went for a joke answer and next thing you know I'm in a fight with someone to the death. If I'm not a bit more careful through the final campaign I may be doing it with my dog and Morrigan (I have a crazy, crazy high approval ranking from her).

Maybe just one more playthrough as an archer maybe.... or maybe back to Borderlands....

[JackAxe]

LOL. That would suck! Just the 3 of you. :D

I had a really high approval rating with Morrigan. It was 95 towards the end, because I gave her gifts. :) Leilana was 100. Alistair was 49. :o

it's a good proc. A bit faster than my previous Core 2 Quad 9450 for games, but in Maxwell Renderer it's nearly double the performance. The extra threads rock. Anyways, if I could only have one comp, it would be a Mac. But the tinkererrrr in me always has me going back to PC, so I will always own both...

[Huntn]

LOL. That would suck! Just the 3 of you. :D

I had a really high approval rating with Morrigan. It was 95 towards the end, because I gave her gifts. :) Leilana was 100. Alistair was 49. :o

it's a good proc. A bit faster than my previous Core 2 Quad 9450 for games, but in Maxwell Renderer it's nearly double the performance. The extra threads rock. Anyways, if I could only have one comp, it would be a Mac. But the tinkererrrr in me always has me going back to PC, so I will always own both...

I've looked around but yet to see where to find party member approval ratings... I've tried to make Morrigan like me, but dialog choices with her are minimal and mostly negative.

[JackAxe]

Gifs! Give here GIFTS!! :) Of course the right ones, which I can help out with if you want? This is one part I used my book for help.

You already know about the Grimoir. If you can get the real one from Flemeth, she'll really like your character.

[Huntn]

Gifs! Give here GIFTS!! :) Of course the right ones, which I can help out with if you want? This is one part I used my book for help.

You already know about the Grimoir. If you can get the real one from Flemeth, she'll really like your character.

I know about Grimoir? Hmm.

Actually I have given her some gifts... I remember one gift, I think it was flowers, everyone refused them! Do I presume correctly that this was too a romantic of a gift for the current affection level or was it something else? Maybe a guide book would be worthwhile. This is one thing I hate about games. If you just waltz through the game, you'll miss stuff. So much for immersion when you have to make multiple runs to get it right, but I'm repeating myself. ;)

Where do you see a party member's affection level?
Thanks!

[JackAxe]

On the Grimoir, Morrigan talks about it early on and it's an item you get around the mage tower, which leads to the bit about Flemeth. :)

You're not going to befriend or talk to everyone you know equally, the game mimics that on a much simpler scale.

Somethings take multiple times to get something right. Everything is gained with experience and if you listen to the others, so the characters in the game, they actually state what they like, which is part of the immersion. ;)

I didn't understand gifts early on, so sold many of them -- needed money and my inventory was always cluttered. I only started to focus on them when I notice that they unlocked bonuses for a character's primary attribute. Then during newer conversations, I started hearing about things each character liked, which is where the book comes in. It reminded me of where I had bought/found certain items, so that I could go back and get them again. :o

I guess Morrigan doesn't like flowers. I never tried to give her any. A certain rogue likes them, she even talks about a certain type. I didn't do the romance thing it with anyone. :)

The approval bar is directly below your character model in the inventory window. It's the red to gold bar.

[Karroc]

I have a MacBook, with Snow Leopard. I have only what the comp. came with.
Will this game work on my comp?

[JackAxe]

Which MacBook, is it one of the newer ones with a 9400m GPU? If this is the case, you'll be fine. From what I've read, it runs decent enough on low-medium settings under Bootcamp.

Anways, it's a great game, so hopefully your MB is more recent.

[lucifiel]

I have a MacBook, with Snow Leopard. I have only what the comp. came with.
Will this game work on my comp?

If you are running with the Nvidia 9400M, expect to have to o/c slightly if you want around 30fps.

Though the macbook 9400 shouldn't be underclocked like the Macbook Air's...so it might not require the o/c. But if you feel it's too jerky try and see if you can squeeze a few frames more with the o/c.

Oh and also set Dragon Age to take advantage of multithreading for a small performance boost too.

[pcypert]

On the Morrigan/Flemith thing.. don't wanna spoil so be warned if you haven't done it yet

On my second play through I was a bit of a pain to everyone and ended up killing/driving off all of my other ranged players. This is a b!tch with three up front "tanks" and just me as a mage. Had I not been a mage I don't think it would have been possible. Since I couldn't take Morrigan it was me, Alistair, the Quanari and a dog :D ... so basically it was me for most of the battle, which drew on forever and took up all my potions at about level 16.

Paul

[Karroc]

If you are running with the Nvidia 9400M, expect to have to o/c slightly if you want around 30fps.

Though the macbook 9400 shouldn't be underclocked like the Macbook Air's...so it might not require the o/c. But if you feel it's too jerky try and see if you can squeeze a few frames more with the o/c.

Oh and also set Dragon Age to take advantage of multithreading for a small performance boost too.

What is o/c? I am just using the mac version not boot camp. How can I tell if i am running with the Nvidia 9400M?

(sorry, I am very much a newbie)

[lucifiel]

What is o/c? I am just using the mac version not boot camp. How can I tell if i am running with the Nvidia 9400M?

(sorry, I am very much a newbie)

O/C = Overclock.

If you're playing the Mac Version, then I'm not sure how to overclock your graphics card. Though I'm not sure it's neccessary. I run a MBA and the GPU is underclocked. I am unsure whether this is the case for a Macbook.

To determine whether you have a 9400M, is your Macbook the nice new one with the smooth glass trackpad? If so, 9400M, if not, you're running the Intel GPU which will not run DA:O.

Or you can click run the system profiler and it'll tell you.

Paul:

Did you try using the golem? Certain crystals (and at that stage of the game you should've gotten some good ones) should make a pretty unstoppable tank. Unless you pissed the golem off too...

[JackAxe]

On the Morrigan/Flemith thing.. don't wanna spoil so be warned if you haven't done it yet...

Paul

I would have got my arse handed to me at the lvl. Her quest was one of my last, so my characters were a couple of levels higher-ish. :]

Have you killed Gaxkang yet? :)

[pcypert]

I don't have the Golem... didn't get the release day pack or download or whatever gives you that character. My "bitch" is a tough little girl though :P

Haven't even heard of that quest. Will look into it now.

Paul

[lucifiel]

I don't have the Golem... didn't get the release day pack or download or whatever gives you that character. My "bitch" is a tough little girl though :P

Haven't even heard of that quest. Will look into it now.

Paul

The quest is not actually called Gaxkang...

I had a bitchy mage character too, it does make killing things easier....

[JackAxe]

I don't have the Golem... didn't get the release day pack or download or whatever gives you that character. My "bitch" is a tough little girl though :P

Haven't even heard of that quest. Will look into it now.

Paul

Once you find him, PREPARE TO BE WORKED! He was by far the hardest thing to kill. :)

I didn't play with Shale, but I'm planning on it. I did unlock him in my previous game.

[Karroc]

O/C = Overclock.

If you're playing the Mac Version, then I'm not sure how to overclock your graphics card. Though I'm not sure it's neccessary. I run a MBA and the GPU is underclocked. I am unsure whether this is the case for a Macbook.

To determine whether you have a 9400M, is your Macbook the nice new one with the smooth glass trackpad? If so, 9400M, if not, you're running the Intel GPU which will not run DA:O.

Or you can click run the system profiler and it'll tell you.

Paul:

Did you try using the golem? Certain crystals (and at that stage of the game you should've gotten some good ones) should make a pretty unstoppable tank. Unless you pissed the golem off too...

Thanks. I have the click mouse...:(. This might change in the next few....years....:(

[lucifiel]

well i could be wrong, so check under the system profiler thingy.

though, if it really is the intel, I would suggest investing in the console version, it's bloody worth it.

[lucifiel]

Once you find him, PREPARE TO BE WORKED! He was by far the hardest thing to kill. :)

I didn't play with Shale, but I'm planning on it. I did unlock him in my previous game.

ahhaa, and if you're REALLY lucky, you'll get the best shield in the game.

[pcypert]

Funnily enough I actually did beat it on my first playthrough. At one point I was getting sick of reading so much and not playing so I started just blasting through dialogues and not reading anything I picked up. I did go to every chest and every person in towns I visited though. So by a freak chance I actually stumbled into quite a few quests. The funniest to me would be when I'd get to a town and someone would have a quest completion indicator above their heads and I wouldn't know what I had done or was turning in :D

So I do remember this battle. It was epic and I did get the shield... but at that point I wasn't using any players that needed it so it was a waste (that team was me as Elf Rogue, the dwarf, Morrigan, and Wynne). Of course I was playign that time on casual as I'm not a hard core RPG player and couldn't really be bothered to sort macros for team mates.

Paul

[JackAxe]

Hardcore... :) You used that term... :) *VOMITS* :p

I did not know about that shield, but of course I've only beat him once and I can't see my self trying it again too many times, because he was so freaking difficult. :o

I didn't use macros either. I turned all of that crap off, because it was frustrating to see Morrigan as an example, using a spell too early, or having Alistair casting smite on when it was completely useless and so on.. Pausing was my friend. :)

[lucifiel]

Hardcore... :) You used that term... :) *VOMITS* :p

I did not know about that shield, but of course I've only beat him once and I can't see my self trying it again too many times, because he was so freaking difficult. :o

I didn't use macros either. I turned all of that crap off, because it was frustrating to see Morrigan as an example, using a spell too early, or having Alistair casting smite on when it was completely useless and so on.. Pausing was my friend. :)

one of the, if not the, best shields is -rarely- dropped. I farmed for it by killing Gaxkang once on Normal, then proceeded to kill him in Easy and did so repeatedly till I got the shield.

[MacRumorUser]

Been replaying through on my MBP (even though I haven't finished my games on my mac pro or ps3) but I've been so bored as i'm in hospital at moment and dragon age and risen have helped keep tedium at bay......

Im trying to be a nasty dwarf who's a real git to everyone this time round.

Im a dalish elf on my mac pro who's a bit goody goody.

I'm a slut mage on my PS3. I've bedded 2 characters and working on my third :D

True choice....

[JackAxe]

On nightmare difficulty , I would have probably been there for another 3 months trying to get the shield. :)

I'll try for it this time -- something else to do that's new, since I'm already doing better on this new play through than last. At least now I have the hindsight to know that I really shouldn't challenge him until my party's level are pretty high.

[lucifiel]

On nightmare difficulty , I would have probably been there for another 3 months trying to get the shield. :)

I'll try for it this time -- something else to do that's new, since I'm already doing better on this new play through than last. At least now I have the hindsight to know that I really shouldn't challenge him until my party's level are pretty high.

apparently the rare loot drops increase with difficulty...so if you beat Gaxkang at nightmare it is more likely to drop that shield. But beating him on nightmare itself is a feat that could take a few months.....

[JackAxe]

apparently the rare loot drops increase with difficulty...so if you beat Gaxkang at nightmare it is more likely to drop that shield. But beating him on nightmare itself is a feat that could take a few months.....

Then I'm special. ;) It did take me a couple of months to complete my first play-through -- which was on nightmare-difficulty, but that wasn't playing the game full time, since I'm still over my head in projects.

Anyways, I just had to get my party's level up to about 19-ish and was able to kill him. I think I'll be able to do it sooner this time around though. :)

[lucifiel]

Then I'm special. ;) It did take me a couple of months to complete my first play-through -- which was on nightmare-difficulty, but that wasn't playing the game full time, since I'm still over my head in projects.

Anyways, I just had to get my party's level up to about 19-ish and was able to kill him. I think I'll be able to do it sooner this time around though. :)

hmm, I think I killed Gaxkang at about level 15 ish, but this was on normal, and I had somehow lucked into getting the Starfang sword.

[Huntn]

For the last two weeks I've been getting distracted with other things. I'll be back to playing soon! One critique about DAO- Orzammar does not hold a candle to Iron Forge. :D

[JackAxe]

hmm, I think I killed Gaxkang at about level 15 ish, but this was on normal, and I had somehow lucked into getting the Starfang sword.
I had to get Morrigan's spirit-healing up before I could kill him, just so she could revive my ranged warrior and Alistair when they were killed -- which was often. I also had her on the other side of the wall out of the range of his freeze and other EVIL. :)

I think that with my rogue specializing in dual weapons this time around and just the experience of already completing the game, I'll be able to kill him earlier.

For the last two weeks I've been getting distracted with other things. I'll be back to playing soon! One critique about DAO- Orzammar does not hold a candle to Iron Forge. :D


This Iron Forge (http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/1031/rawrgoyletz1.png)?

I haven't been able to play for a over a week. I won't be able to play Mass Effect 2 either for a bit. I haven't even got around to playing Zelda: Spirit Tracks. I'm over my head in work, but no complaints. :)

[lucifiel]

I had to get Morrigan's spirit-healing up before I could kill him, just so she could revive my ranged warrior and Alistair when they were killed -- which was often. I also had her on the other side of the wall out of the range of his freeze and other EVIL. :)

I think that with my rogue specializing in dual weapons this time around and just the experience of already completing the game, I'll be able to kill him earlier.


I did the "tank with potion" method: set your tank (Alistair in my case) with tactics "if health drops below 75% use a potion." With lots of potions, the survivability of the tank goes up a LOT. Once you burn through all the level 1 and 2 potions, change the tactic slightly to less than 50% otherwise you're just wasting potions.

and freeze locking has been somewhat nerfed since 1.02, but having Morrigan spam CoC is still a very useful way of dealing with Gaxkang.

There are a lot of other methods, of course, and it all depends upon build, but I had a strength/dex Dual Wield Rogue (which was far from optimum) but it's doable. I can't wait till try my current Cunning/Lethality Rogue...

[JackAxe]

I turned off all the tactics, because my party members were doing things prematurely, or on the wrong enemies. So I just did the pause thing and micro managed my characters when the battles were really tough like Gaxkang. :)

On nightmare he deals a ton of damage(Even with my characters all wearing the best armor available.) and prior to having Morrigan's spirit-healing -- since I didn't use Wynne -- I had no way of healing my characters when they were put into a state they could not respond. It also let me keep my characters attacking, so that only in some cases did they need to stop attacking to use a potion.

Anyways, I'll see how this time goes. My new character is way better for close combat. My other character was great for range, but wasn't the best for up close, like the EVIL that is Gaxkang.

[lucifiel]

ahh, if it's on nightmare, it might not work as well...

well the Spirit Healer Spec is altogether very very powerful. Though I think Wynne is slightly better because of her powers. If you don't know what I'm referring to, try to finish her personal quest...

[Huntn]

I've been running aroud Deep Roads (the large Dwarf underworld region accessed through Orzammar, the Dwarf Capitol) and have explored all that I can. I found the head of one of the Dwarf houses to let him know some fradulent stuff is going on in the competition to take over the Dwarf leadership position. However I have two other quests down there, one was "Places of Power" (a Mage Quest), the other was to find this missing person. While I see several tunnels that lead off into other directions, I can't access them.

Is there an event that unlocks the other parts of Deep Roads or is there a secret way to access? Spoilers welcome, but please use a spoiler warning or white text. Thanks!

[lucifiel]

I've been running aroud Deep Roads (the large Dwarf underworld region accessed through Orzammar, the Dwarf Capitol) and have explored all that I can. I found the head of one of the Dwarf houses to let him know some fradulent stuff is going on in the competition to take over the Dwarf leadership position. However I have two other quests down there, one was "Places of Power" (a Mage Quest), the other was to find this missing person. While I see several tunnels that lead off into other directions, I can't access them.

Is there an event that unlocks the other parts of Deep Roads or is there a secret way to access? Spoilers welcome, but please use a spoiler warning or white text. Thanks!

the places of power site and the missing person is in the same area, i think it's called the ortan thaig.

This missing person is in a tunnel which branches off from the main area and the place of power is at the altar where you summon the pride demon at the end of the "asunder" side quest.

[Huntn]

the places of power site and the missing person is in the same area, i think it's called the ortan thaig.

This missing person is in a tunnel which branches off from the main area and the place of power is at the altar where you summon the pride demon at the end of the "asunder" side quest.

Thanks, is this accessed from the Deep Roads area? If so, how? Something I'm missing.

[lucifiel]

Thanks, it this accessed from the Deep Roads area? If so, how? Something I'm missing.

It is, though I think you need to beat a certain boss before it lets you progress.

I'm not sure which boss it is off the top of my head...I think it's Caradin's Cross...

[steezy1337]

cna anyone give me some tips for beating loghain after the landsmeet? i can only ever beat him once ever few times during the big battle. by the time i'm on to the duel i have no chance because i've usually used all my potions keeping me alive through the first battle. it's really annoying me know because i can't even go back to stock up on more potions.

[lucifiel]

cna anyone give me some tips for beating loghain after the landsmeet? i can only ever beat him once ever few times during the big battle. by the time i'm on to the duel i have no chance because i've usually used all my potions keeping me alive through the first battle. it's really annoying me know because i can't even go back to stock up on more potions.

mage with the spell cone of cold. If you have any other disables, it'll be even easir.

rogue with riposte, and lethality = backstab to hell.

warrior with any disable, the 2 handed has that pummel thing, and S+S has the shield stuff.

You'll also need decent stats, but the Loghain fight is really not that difficult compared to some of the other fights.

[pcypert]

Yeah,
That wasn't one that gave me issues. I think he had some archers or something doing more damage than him. If you have a mage or something use them to keep him stuck in place and then take out all those little guys that will be eating away at your health.

To the guy asking about the dwarf thing... you need to cash in your missions and then will be given a quest that allows you to go deeper in. Don't think you can explore it on your own as it's tied to a big mission. I dont' really consider that a spoiler so didn't white it out. It's the "big" quest you do to get the dwarven alliance... (no spoiler there right, I mean there's a bit mission for every alliance you want).

Paul

[Huntn]

It is, though I think you need to beat a certain boss before it lets you progress.

I'm not sure which boss it is off the top of my head...I think it's Caradin's Cross...

Thanks for the info! Least I know it's not that I'm missing a secret door or something.

Yeah,
That wasn't one that gave me issues. I think he had some archers or something doing more damage than him. If you have a mage or something use them to keep him stuck in place and then take out all those little guys that will be eating away at your health.

To the guy asking about the dwarf thing... you need to cash in your missions and then will be given a quest that allows you to go deeper in. Don't think you can explore it on your own as it's tied to a big mission. I dont' really consider that a spoiler so didn't white it out. It's the "big" quest you do to get the dwarven alliance... (no spoiler there right, I mean there's a bit mission for every alliance you want).

Paul

That was me. I found the head of the Dwarf House and gave him the message. Now I'm back in Orzammar looking over my quests trying to figure out what I need to do next to proceed. So far I've been playing both sides of the fence, helping both Dwarf Houses, maybe that's my problem. I'll just do whatever quests I have and see what develops. :)

[pcypert]

Spoiler?

Yeah you'll need to pick a side because the one you go more with will finally ask you to venture in to get this chick to come give her Paragon approval to their bid. That opens up the deep roads and gives you a party character. You can still backtrack on your choice of king, but need to seem more loyal to one over another. I think they give you the slums first, then after that they'll say still not quite enough can you get so and so Paragon... then you're in.

Paul

[MacRumorUser]

I turned off all the tactics, because my party members were doing things prematurely, or on the wrong enemies. So I just did the pause thing and micro managed my characters

* cough * control freak * cough * :D


I wouldn't have the patience for that tbh.

[JackAxe]

THat's ME! :P

I actually did it out of FRUSTRATION. :D I'd go to Morrigan to have her cast a cone of cold, or the blizzard storm and right before I got there, she'd be casting chain lightning. Or Alistaire would fire up SMITE on a foe that didn't need to be smited. Anyways, it made the game easier for me in the long run and yes, it did require more control. :o

[lucifiel]

Just a quick update:

Return to Ostagar DLC is out and downloadable: GO GO GO!

[txa1265]

Just a quick update:

Return to Ostagar DLC is out and downloadable: GO GO GO!

But they have gone from calling the Mac release 'later' to not even mentioning it at all ...

[JackAxe]

Just a quick update:

Return to Ostagar DLC is out and downloadable: GO GO GO!

I haven't even bought the Gray Wardens DLC yet. If you buy this, let us know how it is. I'd buy it though, if it's a couple of hours worth of play. :)

[lucifiel]

I haven't even bought the Gray Wardens DLC yet. If you buy this, let us know how it is. I'd buy it though, if it's a couple of hours worth of play. :)

it's disappointingly easy, though there are some good crowd bashing scenes which I enjoyed and I'm not sure how i feel about the story of the DLC...

the Grey Warden's DLC is good though.

but I like all the items, so I would've bought it anyways.

i'd give a tentative recomendation...

[JackAxe]

Maybe if I wait long enough, there will be a DLC sale. :o

I recall reading that the Gray Warden's quest offered things relevant to the game, so I'm wondering if I should buy that now, since I'm not that far in on my second play through?

I'm wondering the same thing about this new DLC, or does it take place after the game's timeline?

[apfhex]

Wondering about buying Return to Ostagar myself. Just ran into the camp where the game tells you to go buy the DLC. If you get to wear the king's armor, well, I guess it was pretty cool looking.

I actually did it out of FRUSTRATION. :D I'd go to Morrigan to have her cast a cone of cold, or the blizzard storm and right before I got there, she'd be casting chain lightning. Or Alistaire would fire up SMITE on a foe that didn't need to be smited. Anyways, it made the game easier for me in the long run and yes, it did require more control. :o
I have tactics on but could stand to tweak them a bit. My biggest frustration is characters running off across the room to chase an enemy I do NOT want them going after, often getting caught in some AoE or something. Usually they stick to the targets I tell them to but often as not I'm hitting = (select all) and clicking on the target I want. Either way I'm finding the game challenging enough I have to mico-manage most battles. A few too many un-CCed mages tossing fireballs at you can mean quick death.

[JackAxe]

Another reason to turn it all off! :)

I mapped the select all button to a button my pinky could reach on my speedpad

I got into the habit of having Morrigan casting blizzard on an adjacent room, then lightning storm, then waiting. This usually cleared out all but the toughest foes. :)

[lucifiel]

Maybe if I wait long enough, there will be a DLC sale. :o

I recall reading that the Gray Warden's quest offered things relevant to the game, so I'm wondering if I should buy that now, since I'm not that far in on my second play through?

I'm wondering the same thing about this new DLC, or does it take place after the game's timeline?

well the later you wait till finishing the quests the DLC offers, the better the rewards since the materials will scale.

that said, if you finish the DLC quests... you can use the merchant at the Grey Warden's Keep to upgrade your gear for something like 20g, where you sell and buy back

though that doesn't relaly answer your question: i have to say, I really enjoyed wardens keep, i liked the story, and it's only tangentially related to the main story, but still it's interesting and the items are fun.

The RTO DLC is meant to provide closure to events in the main storyline (the name of the DLC kinda gives it away as to what it gives closure to)...whether you reckon that's $5 is another question. The DLC itself would take about an hour or two to finish and as I remarked before, there are definitely some good fights, but the challenge level is not high.

[Huntn]

Spoiler?
Paul

Thanks for the info! (see original post for spoiler).

Wondering about buying Return to Ostagar myself. Just ran into the camp where the game tells you to go buy the DLC. If you get to wear the king's armor, well, I guess it was pretty cool looking.


I have tactics on but could stand to tweak them a bit. My biggest frustration is characters running off across the room to chase an enemy I do NOT want them going after, often getting caught in some AoE or something. Usually they stick to the targets I tell them to but often as not I'm hitting = (select all) and clicking on the target I want. Either way I'm finding the game challenging enough I have to mico-manage most battles. A few too many un-CCed mages tossing fireballs at you can mean quick death.

That is why when I know there is a group of mobs waiting for me, I try to draw them to me versus running into the fight. One technique is to put the group on "hold" and then aggro some mobs and pull them to the group. Then take them off "hold" or they won't move at all.

Another reason to turn it all off! :)

I mapped the select all button to a button my pinky could reach on my speedpad

I got into the habit of having Morrigan casting blizzard on an adjacent room, then lightning storm, then waiting. This usually cleared out all but the toughest foes. :)

I liked Blizzard, but when I respecc'd I chose not to renew it and chose Earthquake instead which I don't like as much. I may go back to Blizzard if I can fit it into the big scheme of spell trees. :)

[lucifiel]

I liked Blizzard, but when I respecc'd I chose not to renew it and chose Earthquake instead which I don't like as much. I may go back to Blizzard if I can fit into the big scheme of spell trees. :)

I find blizzard to be superior to earthquake as it does what Earthquake does AND it does damage. That and there is a spell combo behind Blizzard....

[JackAxe]

Thanks for the info Lucifiel. I'm going play the warden quest, then pick up the next one after I complete my second play-through -- which is on hold for Mass Effect 2.

[MAYA7J7]

interesting....

[apfhex]

I went and did RTO, neat little bit of content and fun to return there. The armor set was about on par with the Blood Dragon with different stat bonuses. I put it on since I was tired of looking at the Blood Dragon set. You get a certain Warden's weapons as well but Starfang (http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Starfang_(Longsword)) is better. :cool:

http://kttns.org/g0ym

[lucifiel]

I went and did RTO, neat little bit of content and fun to return there. The armor set was about on par with the Blood Dragon with different stat bonuses. I put it on since I was tired of looking at the Blood Dragon set. You get a certain Warden's weapons as well but Starfang (http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Starfang_(Longsword)) is better. :cool:


the itemset bonus from the other swords that you get in RTO has made me reconsider the Starfang..

[apfhex]

Ah I didn't consider that (http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Cailan%27s_Arms). On that subject: does the game actually show you anywhere what the set bonuses are? I've been having to refer to the Dragon Age Wiki for a lot of info.

On another note, anyone else annoyed you have to go to Soldier's Peak to get to the party chest? I thought it would be accessible from camp.

[lucifiel]

Ah I didn't consider that (http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Cailan%27s_Arms). On that subject: does the game actually show you anywhere what the set bonuses are? I've been having to refer to the Dragon Age Wiki for a lot of info.

On another note, anyone else annoyed you have to go to Soldier's Peak to get to the party chest? I thought it would be accessible from camp.

rightclick and viewing the item's description will tell you the nature of the bonus, but not the quantity of the bonus, for the quantity, you'll either need to do it by trial and error (which isn't too hard), or just refer to the dragon age wiki and take someone else's word for it.

I find I don't like using the party chest too much, so it doesn't perturb me too much, though I have a feeling it'd be more useful were it in the party camp. I'm undecided about the point.

[Huntn]

rightclick and viewing the item's description will tell you the nature of the bonus, but not the quantity of the bonus, for the quantity, you'll either need to do it by trial and error (which isn't too hard), or just refer to the dragon age wiki and take someone else's word for it.

I find I don't like using the party chest too much, so it doesn't perturb me too much, though I have a feeling it'd be more useful were it in the party camp. I'm undecided about the point.

Party chest?

I was bogged down in Orzimar, but then I finally went to the Proving Ground and fought a series of matches (to the death no less) until I was declared the victor. Now maybe something else will open up there... :)

[JackAxe]

Isn't the party chest a bonus item available in the first DLC?

[Huntn]

I may have shot myself in the foot. In the race for the Dwarf king, I've played both sides and now I don't see a way to move forward. I went into Deep Roads and showed some guy that Harrowman (name?) was not to be trusted. Then for fun, I represented him against Balin in the proving ground. Now Vartag, Balin's rep wont talk to me and I see no way to help the Dwarves elect their new king. Would they have designed the game so you could end up in a blind alley or is there something else I'm not seeing? I currently have no Ozzamar quests I can pursue. The two I have are for parts of the Deep Roads I can't reach. Maybe I should just try to do some quests elsewhere and come back later? What are the trigger quests to get a Dwarf King elected?
Thanks!

[JackAxe]

I'll check when I get home Huntn. I kind of played both sides also and even at the end chose the opposite guy I had done more favors for.

Anyways, I'll post later on tonight. I'll look through my book to see if it sparks any memories of what I had to do to unlock the Deep Roads

[pcypert]

I remember there being an option with the nastier seeming folks to do a on the sly campaign for them. So if you're playing both sides you can let him know that you went to the proving grounds for the other guy in order for them to trust you. It might have taken some convincing via skills if you have those.

You're not at an impasse though. There aren't any of those in the game. You'll be able to get deeper. Just talk to folks... you've already done the slum right?

Paul

[JackAxe]

Huntn,

Have you gone to the Tavern to talk to Dulin? If not, give it a try, he'll bring you to meet Harrowmont, which then should open up the Dust Town quest pcypert mentions.

[Huntn]

I remember there being an option with the nastier seeming folks to do a on the sly campaign for them. So if you're playing both sides you can let him know that you went to the proving grounds for the other guy in order for them to trust you. It might have taken some convincing via skills if you have those.

You're not at an impasse though. There aren't any of those in the game. You'll be able to get deeper. Just talk to folks... you've already done the slum right?

Paul

Yes, I remember that dialog option, I said exactly that and Vartag, Balin's rep, told me to shove it. ;) I had some quests in Dust town that I completed. Thanks!


Huntn,

Have you gone to the Tavern to talk to Dulin? If not, give it a try, he'll bring you to meet Harrowmont, which then should open up the Dust Town quest pcypert mentions.

Thanks, I'll check it out. :)

[Huntn]

Well, I'm thinking I'm stuck. I talked to Harrmon'ts rep in the Tavern. He wants me to tell him what Behilin wants me to do, but I can't get Behilin's rep to give me the time of day. I've looked online and there are several threads about being stuck in Orzammar. I also need to do something in Dust Town, I've interacted with all the thugs, killed a few in a small room, but there is a mysterious door I can't get through. I've talked to the NPCs there and none of them will mention anything about the door. I've also run all over the first part of the Deep Roads and can't find a way to any other part but Aurtan Tang (I think that is the name), the part I've all ready explored.

At this point, I'd say don't play both sides (the two candidates for King) against each other. I'm not gonna start over... will just set the game aside if I can't get it resolved. :(

[JackAxe]

Have you spoken with Nadeza in Dust Town? She's near the fire. She'll tell you about a token that you need to open the door, which you can get it from one of Jarvia's men.

You can also get the same information from Rogek by bribing him, or Almimar of Alimar's Emporium.

Then from there, you should get ambushed when going back into the slums in the back house next to the door. One of the guys you kill has a finger bone token, which opens the door.

[MacRumorUser]

^ and just to add, playing off one side against the other, or choosing the wrong side is inconsiquential really to the story over all, and you will get the opportunity to rectify your decision before its finalised regardless.

Im further in now and similar situation is happening in Denerim (alies & choosing sides).

[Huntn]

Have you spoken with Nadeza in Dust Town? She's near the fire. She'll tell you about a token that you need to open the door, which you can get it from one of Jarvia's men.

You can also get the same information from Rogek by bribing him, or Almimar of Alimar's Emporium.

Then from there, you should get ambushed when going back into the slums in the back house next to the door. One of the guys you kill has a finger bone token, which opens the door.

^ and just to add, playing off one side against the other, or choosing the wrong side is inconsiquential really to the story over all, and you will get the opportunity to rectify your decision before its finalised regardless.

Im further in now and similar situation is happening in Denerim (alies & choosing sides).

I have spoken to all 3 of these people. None of them have anything to say about the door. It's locked. I get to ask Nadeza where I can get a beer. That's all. I helped her with some quest previously. Rogek says nice doing business with you ( I delivered some librium (whatever it's called) to the circle, and Alimar only offers to show me his goods for sale... And a while back I went into a little room in Dust Town and had a conversation with some thugs before I killed them. That room is now empty. Is it possible I've picked up the token? I should look through my inventory, but I assume if I have it, the door would not be locked? Another problem here is that you might actually need a quest to get into the locked door. My understanding is that one of the two reps (for the King contenders) has this quest, but I can't get it from them.

The bad thing is that this happened a while back and I don't exactly remember the details regarding a token. Some online research seems to indicate that I should have acquired this token by killing the thugs in the room or by one of the other tasks. I also talked to a guy in the tavern who talked about the paragon lost in the Dark Roads for 2 years, but in the end, he told me to sod off.

Part of this problem is letting the game sit for a couple of weeks before resuming. I would not think the game would allow you to box yourself into a corner, but that appears to be I currently am. :) Anyway I appreciate you guys help and any other thoughts would be appreciated.

[MacRumorUser]

^ You have done the missions in the Dark Roads area ? I had to finish that area before the one your on.

[JackAxe]

When first entering dust town you get ambushed, that might have been who you fought. If you had the token, it would give you the option to use it in the door.

What quests do you still have open for this area?

[Huntn]

^ You have done the missions in the Dark Roads area ? I had to finish that area before the one your on.

I have been all over the first part of the Dark Roads several times looking for a way to move forward. I have two Dark Roads quests that are open, but I believe those are for areas of the Dark Road I don't have access to.

When first entering dust town you get ambushed, that might have been who you fought. If you had the token, it would give you the option to use it in the door.

What quests do you still have open for this area?

I fought and killed guys when I first came into Dust Town and later , there was a door near the end of the zone which had thugs inside two small rooms. They are dead too.

I'll come up with a list of open quests I have for Orzammar. Maybe that will help. Stand by! :)

[Huntn]

Ok, here are my current Orzammar quests:

Shifting Alliances- Dulin wants me to report what Bhelen wants me to do for him. Can't talk to Bhelen or his rep in the assembly. (Can't find Bhelen in Orzammar.)

Lost to Memories- side quest.

A Princes Favor- return to Vartag (Bhelen's rep). He won't talk to me.

A Mother's Hope- sidequest.

A Paragon- nothing I can do with this until stalemate is broken in Orzammar.

Completed Orzammar Quests:
A lost Nug
Dulin Forenden
Vartag Gavarin
Zerlinda's Woe
Chant in Deep
Seek Steward Bandelor
Lord's Trust
Unlikely Scholor
Precious Metals
Thief in House of Learning.

Any suggestions appreciated! :)

[JackAxe]

Bhelen is the prince, where as Dulin supports Lord Harrowmont. If you sided with Bhelen initially byt talking to Vartag, the quest is to deliver notes to Lord Helmi and Lady Dace, which leads to the Deep Roads: Aeducan Thaig quest.

So when talking to Dulin, there's no response that allows you convey what was asked by Bhelen's supporter?

After winning the tournaments, is he now located in the tavern?

[Huntn]

Bhelen is the prince, where as Dulin supports Lord Harrowmont. If you sided with Bhelen initially byt talking to Vartag, the quest is to deliver notes to Lord Helmi and Lady Dace, which leads to the Deep Roads: Aeducan Thaig quest.

Yes I delivered the note to the dwarf in the Deep Roads. He was not pleased and was going back to Orzammar to tell Lady Dace to change her vote.

So when talking to Dulin, there's no response that allows you convey what was asked by Bhelen's supporter?

Dulin wants me to talk Vartag and find out what Bhelen wants me to do for him. However Vartag won't talk to me. When I realized there was a problem with Vartag, I went back to a previous save and tried different dialog options. He rejected all of them, 1)I made a mistake Bhelen would be the better King 2)I can spy on Harromont 3)Bhelen is a jerk (but I did not use that one). Anyway now the guy won't give me the time of day.

After winning the tournaments, is he now located in the tavern?

Yes, Dulin is in the tavern.

Jack, I appreciate your help but don't want to be a burden. I actually think I'm stuck. I'm going to feel guilty if you spend a lot of time trying to solve this. I was just hoping there was an easy solution. :( I appreciate your help so far.

[JackAxe]

No problem, no burden. :)

I've just been looking through my book, since I haven't played DA since last month. I haven't played any games for almost two weeks prior to this weekend.

I found this;
http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Forum:Stuck_in_Orzammar

The second post mentions to use a console command to get past it, because it's probably a bug;
"runscript zz_orz_debug"

The last post mentions that the Deep Roads are open, you just have to go further south. I didn't find the south exit in Caridin's Cross until later in the game, long after I had killed Jarvia, so I'm not sure if it was always open, or if my actions unlocked that area? BUT, if this guy is right, then it's probably always been open, so if that's the case, then the quest to kill Jarvia is actually optional and not important to the main gray warden quest -- so you'd need to use the console command, or restart to open it.

Both choices are jerks, so it's really doesn't matter who you side with. I ended up changing my mind at the very end. :o

[Huntn]

No problem, no burden. :)

I've just been looking through my book, since I haven't played DA since last month. I haven't played any games for almost two weeks prior to this weekend.

I found this;
http://dragonage.wikia.com/wiki/Forum:Stuck_in_Orzammar

The second post mentions to use a console command to get past it, because it's probably a bug;
"runscript zz_orz_debug"

The last post mentions that the Deep Roads are open, you just have to go further south. I didn't find the south exit in Caridin's Cross until later in the game, long after I had killed Jarvia, so I'm not sure if it was always open, or if my actions unlocked that area? BUT, if this guy is right, then it's probably always been open, so if that's the case, then the quest to kill Jarvia is actually optional and not important to the main gray warden quest -- so you'd need to use the console command, or restart to open it.

Both choices are jerks, so it's really doesn't matter who you side with. I ended up changing my mind at the very end. :o

I have scoured the portion of the Deep Roads I can access looking for exits other than the entrance. This is the first section you get when you deliver the note to the Dwarf telling him Harromont is a jerk. I feel certain other destinations in the Deep Roads are unlocked with quests. I wonder if the game allows you to box yourself into a corner? Anyway, I will try to run the script to fix it. But I wonder what change the script makes- anyone know? As in, to know if it took, I guess I should go and talk to maybe Vartag in the General Assembly.

Thanks Jack! :)

[MacRumorUser]

Spoiler alert.

MORRIGAN you backstabbing bitch. Told her to fu(k off.

Final battle, but keep getting my ass kicked.

[lucifiel]

Why the hate on morrigan??

She has her moments.

The final battle has had a lot of strategies written about it, so I won't rehash, suffice to say the old Tank + DPS (rogue, mage, etc) = win