Dragon Age: Origins

 PlayStation 3
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 732 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 570 out of 732
  2. Mixed: 82 out of 732
  3. Negative: 80 out of 732
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  1. AlphaLlama
    Aug 31, 2011
    9
    The story, the setting, the characters and the gameplay are fantastic i actually couldnt stop playing it. Its like a book you cant put down until you know what happens next
  2. Isaac
    Nov 28, 2011
    8
    finishing Dragon age: Origins made me feel like I'v played a true RPG. I don't usually play RPGs, so when I decided to play this game I wasn't exactly feeling like a "veteran" of the genre. The game has a predictable "Lord of the rings" tale that has that "good VS evil" feel to it. The real meat of the game lies in it's dialog/story and combat system which are all fun and interesting. thefinishing Dragon age: Origins made me feel like I'v played a true RPG. I don't usually play RPGs, so when I decided to play this game I wasn't exactly feeling like a "veteran" of the genre. The game has a predictable "Lord of the rings" tale that has that "good VS evil" feel to it. The real meat of the game lies in it's dialog/story and combat system which are all fun and interesting. the characters and the dialog options you have in a conversation are all brilliant, and probably the high point of the game.The combat itself on the consoles is decent, but seems like it doesn't fit console controlls to say the least, but it get's better when you know the characters well,especially after having so many conversations with them, and knowing their desires and conflicts.The RPG elements are all here, and while there is nothing groundbreaking, I still feel like the game is fresh, seeing how many cheap action games are coming out nowadays.The game is 2 years old but still kicks most RPGs that i'v played this generation in their butts. The console versions are genuinely worst compared with the pc version, so if you are playing the game on a pc add another point to the score. The game let's you role play and make decisions as you go. The game almost never forces you on one way to do things, and your opinion allways counts. This defines DAO for me, and is really what makes it stand out as a true RPG experience, at least in this generation.… Expand
  3. MrRPG
    Aug 15, 2012
    9
    One of the greatest Western RPG's to date, wonderful scenery, fun combat, hilarious dialogue at times..
    I found my self enjoying this game so much i played through it in every class, although some quests are rather mundane and boring, it's easily over looked because this game shines so bright among the other RPG's of 2009-2010..
    And now that the GOTY edition is only $20 (AUS), everyone    One of the greatest Western RPG's to date, wonderful scenery, fun combat, hilarious dialogue at times..
    I found my self enjoying this game so much i played through it in every class, although some quests are rather mundane and boring, it's easily over looked because this game shines so bright among the other RPG's of 2009-2010..

    And now that the GOTY edition is only $20 (AUS), everyone who hasn't played this game should definitely give it a look..    … Expand
  4. drewezbreezee
    Nov 23, 2010
    8
    great game great designs for once i felt like 100 hrs of gameplay was 2 much...rpg ers this is for u! however it is a pc rip so the graphics will make u scratch ur eyes out.
  5. Ian277
    Jan 25, 2011
    9
    i was sceptical at first because i knew little about this game. i loved the specialized starts and the combat in rpg style. once i killed my first darkspawn i was addictive. i love this game but it freezes oftenly. it have alot of bugs but it's very fun none the less. buy if you like RPG's.
  6. markeras
    Jul 8, 2011
    10
    This is my favourite RPG of this generation. Incredible and memorable characters (I adore the interactions between some of them, especially between Morrigan and the rest of the team) , an immersing and coherent fiction world, a very well constructed narration with a lot of options to choose, an interesting combat system, and a lot of other virtues. It's really the successor of Baldur'sThis is my favourite RPG of this generation. Incredible and memorable characters (I adore the interactions between some of them, especially between Morrigan and the rest of the team) , an immersing and coherent fiction world, a very well constructed narration with a lot of options to choose, an interesting combat system, and a lot of other virtues. It's really the successor of Baldur's Gate, adapted to nowadays (more cinematics, a little more agile combat system,...). I've played all the origins stories, and i have repeated some of them, the replayability is so high!!! If only the "sequel" had been the half of it...… Expand
  7. Poacher619
    Jun 11, 2011
    9
    Excellent blend of action/strategy/RPG gameplay. Story was lengthy and intriguing. Add that I only played one play-through with one class/race and this game has excellent replay value. Graphics aren't the best but not bad enough to make you want to stop playing.
  8. pyrocloud7
    Jun 19, 2011
    9
    In my own opinion this is the number one RPG to date. I personally love the console version controls as opposed to the PC controls. Bioware has always delivered strong games, but the story as well as the vastness of the universe are just amazing. The only complaint I have for Dragon Age: Origins is with the technical issues. A few minor frame rate issues and bugs, as well as a largeIn my own opinion this is the number one RPG to date. I personally love the console version controls as opposed to the PC controls. Bioware has always delivered strong games, but the story as well as the vastness of the universe are just amazing. The only complaint I have for Dragon Age: Origins is with the technical issues. A few minor frame rate issues and bugs, as well as a large loophole in the import system from Origins to Awakening, are the only things stopping Dragon Age from getting a solid and undeniable 10/10.… Expand
  9. Salamunic
    Aug 26, 2011
    9
    While it's not a flawless PC to console port, Biowares' first PS3 game promises a bright future for rpg fans craving the good old days of Baldur's Gate and Neverwinter Nights. The graphics are dated, yet the environments creatively designed, the combat is flawed, yet it provides more depth than most console rpgs. While the pendulum of ups and downs is noticeable,it is not game-breaking andWhile it's not a flawless PC to console port, Biowares' first PS3 game promises a bright future for rpg fans craving the good old days of Baldur's Gate and Neverwinter Nights. The graphics are dated, yet the environments creatively designed, the combat is flawed, yet it provides more depth than most console rpgs. While the pendulum of ups and downs is noticeable,it is not game-breaking and it's the incredibly deep characters that are the game's selling point. This is not a game that you can play in small increments, so you will have to dedicate large chunks of time for each gaming session. The beginning, in particular, will require some patience, but the pace picks up quickly once the characters are introduced and you will be well rewarded. The moral choices that you get to make on your journey really make you feel like you are part of the DA:O universe. This is Biowares' finest. Highly recommended!… Expand
  10. Engineergirl80
    Feb 8, 2012
    10
    A unique and fun game that gives a great sense of involvement to both character and plot. A genuinely great game that I have found to be well thought out and full of classic RPG charm. It's difficult to stop playing and the only problem is that you can't play it in twenty minute or hour bursts as it's too addictive.
  11. moua
    Nov 14, 2011
    8
    Very Story driven. Very Lovable and in depth character in this game. Old school style rpg click and automatic attacks with hotkeys for skills, but compared to its pc cousin the console lacked a lot. The gameplay itself is not all to bad with limited skills that can be hotkey but still carries the same overall experience in the Dragon Age world. Great sandbox with a great story. 8.5/10* PC=9/10*
  12. MichaelM
    Nov 6, 2009
    9
    This game is amazing. Freakin spectacular. The PS3 version is slightly better than the 360 version, but not by much. Don't listen to the guy below me, PS2 graphics are not in the card...It's not as good graphically, as say...Mass Effect..but sometimes on the characters of places you get the feeling that it's right there close to it. I would honestly give the graphics This game is amazing. Freakin spectacular. The PS3 version is slightly better than the 360 version, but not by much. Don't listen to the guy below me, PS2 graphics are not in the card...It's not as good graphically, as say...Mass Effect..but sometimes on the characters of places you get the feeling that it's right there close to it. I would honestly give the graphics card...8.5..but thats me. The rest of everything else is awesome. It has some things wrong with it, but nothing that hinders the fun factor. If you love RPG's like this..its a game to buy. Gameplay-10 presentation-9.5 graphics-8.5 replayability-10 total-9… Expand
  13. MichaelVanS
    Jan 8, 2010
    9
    This game is MASS EFFECT meets Dungeons and Dragons. If you are a hack and slash gamer, you won't like this game. If you read fantasy novels, enjoy story driven role-playing games, you will love this game. The story is compelling and the game play is scalable to the level of control you wish to take. There is alot of dialogue, but unlike some negative reviewers, I don't consider This game is MASS EFFECT meets Dungeons and Dragons. If you are a hack and slash gamer, you won't like this game. If you read fantasy novels, enjoy story driven role-playing games, you will love this game. The story is compelling and the game play is scalable to the level of control you wish to take. There is alot of dialogue, but unlike some negative reviewers, I don't consider that a problem. Like I said "story driven"...I don't know how you could do that without the dialogue. And some of the most hilarious moments come just listening to your party members chit-chat as you walk down the road. I recommend swapping out characters on a regular basis if for no other reason than to hear some of the hilarious lines they fire at one another! There are so many variables that rely on your starting background, you find yourself playing the opening sequence over and over, just so you won't miss any of the options. I would recommend that new players start the game using every possible combination both male and female, then once you have reached Flemeth's Hut with each; only then you can decide which character you want to play through the rest of the game with. The stories really are that good. My only complaint is the graphics could have been a little better IMO.… Expand
  14. DougD
    Nov 9, 2009
    10
    Hands down a must own. Amazingly deep game, with good (not great) graphics, and limitless choices. Suffers from some effects of the port from the PC, but it depends on what you are looking for. If you want to be blown away by graphics, this might not be the game for you. If you were waiting for a great RPG for the PS3, go get it now, it likely won't get much better. I'd prefer Hands down a must own. Amazingly deep game, with good (not great) graphics, and limitless choices. Suffers from some effects of the port from the PC, but it depends on what you are looking for. If you want to be blown away by graphics, this might not be the game for you. If you were waiting for a great RPG for the PS3, go get it now, it likely won't get much better. I'd prefer if it was in 1080p, and if they'd have put more time into porting it to the PS3, but overall, the gameplay isn't really effected. Those who feel it second nature to have a Playstation controller in their hand will do fine, those who want a mouse will be just as good. All in all, Bioware made a great game, they just needed to spend more cycles porting it, and if you're looking for gameplay that won't really matter anyway.… Expand
  15. RobP
    Nov 6, 2009
    10
    PS3 vs XBOX 360 Review of Dragon Age (Bioware's KOTOR 2), November 4, 2009 The PS3 version is 17.3% better than the 360 version for 4.2 reasons. The 360 version is 13.7% better than the PS3 version for 2.4 reasons. Which version is better for you will be determined by your saving throw. NO SPOILERS I picked up both versions. I have two identical TVs, one bedroom, one den, both 50" PS3 vs XBOX 360 Review of Dragon Age (Bioware's KOTOR 2), November 4, 2009 The PS3 version is 17.3% better than the 360 version for 4.2 reasons. The 360 version is 13.7% better than the PS3 version for 2.4 reasons. Which version is better for you will be determined by your saving throw. NO SPOILERS I picked up both versions. I have two identical TVs, one bedroom, one den, both 50" 1080p Panasonic G10s. For this review I put them side by side in the den, PS3 hooked up to one, 360 to the other, and choose the same origin story. I played the PS3, my wife played the 360, we both took the day off of work, a "Bioware Holiday." BIOWARE The Bioware RPG is one of my favorite video game genres. KOTOR 1 is still my favorite story. I played through Mass Effect 7 times. If you like Bioware, you will like Dragon Age. KOTOR 2 GRAPHICS Bioware didn't make KOTOR 2. Until now. Dragon Age's graphics in general look like a last generation game, upconverted to HD. And why should they not? This game was 5 years in the making. Personally, if I could wave a magic wigglestick, I would magically wish the graphics into the year 2069, to play in my PS9 in my flying car. Unfortunately, I live in a condo that doesn't allow wigglesticking. So the choice is (A) Play the Bioware game. (B) Don't play the Bioware game. (C) Eat a cup cake. No one plays Bioware games for the graphics. You play for the CYOA storytelling. 6 COMPLETE CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE NOVELS Dragon Age is 10 Novels long. With 6 unique hero journeys. That can be twisted good or naughty. Warrior. Magic. Thief. Hybrid-Hybrid. Bioware is the only developer on the planet that makes this kind of beautiful uniqueness. This kind of awesomeness only comes around once every few years. Is this flavor of awesomeness perfect? No. Is amateur pornography perfect? No. Sometimes the pacing is off, or the dialogue excessive, but it gets the job done. The job is to experience a genuine human story--even if you're a lesbian elf. Dragon Age is fantastic video game storytelling. And better written than most fantasy novels. BLOOD SPLATTER OR POTPOURRI? I'm going to give Bioware the benefit of the doubt and believe that after battles my characters are splattered with blood and not potpourri. It's hard to tell visually, but I don't think they would censor themselves because this game is, like, totally Mature. GAY SEX - NO NUDITY My wife likes lesbian threesomes. In books. In movies. In video games. In our kids' crayon drawings. She had never played a Bioware game before, but she likes role playing, and I told her Dragon Age has lesbian threesomes. Now, like with most video games, the depiction of sex isn't much more sophisticated visually than taking two barbie dolls and slapping them together. And there's no nudity. Because Bioware understands the genuine human condition--that people make the special love with their cloths on-- even if you're a bi-sexual dwarf. So if you like realisticly-sized breasts well-covered with beige felt bikinis, then you, my friend, are in for a PG-13 flavored treat. CASUAL VS HARDCORE My wife played on easy, I played on normal. If you're an uber-genius, like me, who enjoys micromanagement, obscure RPG tactics, and general strategery... Then prepare to spend a lot of time, with the game paused, in clunky interface menus, because that's how real men play. That's how my grandpappy played his Bioware games, and his grandpappy before him, back when Bioware wasn't even Canadian, when they were still French, and the TVs had 11" screens and were powered by fire--usually dry hickory. So if you want that kind of authentic gaming experiece, you can have it. But if you just want to enjoy the story, crank that menu to easy, slump back in the couch, and unbuckle your pants for a good time. PS3 VS 360 Like with all games, it's a choice between graphics vs framerate. The PS3 has slightly better textures, color saturation, contrast level, resolution. The 360 is less pretty but smoother. The PS3 is the supermodel with arthritis. The 360 is a Ukrainian gymnast. You get to choose who you want to take to bed. But since all you're going to do in bed is talk... It's not such a big deal. Unless you put two 50" plasmas right next to each other, you're not going to see the difference. I'm going to keep the PS3 version (because I like the controller better) and give my 360 copy to my favorite charity FVGFBO that provides fantastic video games for blind orphans. BUY IT, PLAY IT, LOVE IT… Expand
  16. LesE
    Dec 8, 2009
    9
    The game was slightly delayed in the UK in order to rectify the framerate issues. Graphically this was better than I was led to believe but not of the best. However the developers wore their Martin/Tolkein etc influence proudly on their sleeves and made no apology for what was a somewhat cliched plot. However the depth of character relations and funny as hell plot twist options (kill The game was slightly delayed in the UK in order to rectify the framerate issues. Graphically this was better than I was led to believe but not of the best. However the developers wore their Martin/Tolkein etc influence proudly on their sleeves and made no apology for what was a somewhat cliched plot. However the depth of character relations and funny as hell plot twist options (kill Alistair I say), as well as the great romantic entaglements (to me always a highlight of Bioware games) push this to a 9. I'm on my second play… Expand
  17. Phalange
    Jan 25, 2010
    10
    Alot of people either hate this game or love it. I personally love this game. It took me awhile to get into it but once i did and started leveling my character and getting into the quests i found the whole game very immersive and addicting. Once i got going into the main quest i couldn't pull myself away from my xbox. I played it for about 3 days straight and once i finished my first Alot of people either hate this game or love it. I personally love this game. It took me awhile to get into it but once i did and started leveling my character and getting into the quests i found the whole game very immersive and addicting. Once i got going into the main quest i couldn't pull myself away from my xbox. I played it for about 3 days straight and once i finished my first playthough I found myself repeatedly going back to do things differently and changing the outcome of the game. Very good game, and once it picks up speed it never lets you go with its great storytelling and fun combat and tactics.… Expand
  18. RichardN
    Nov 13, 2009
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. True immersion in an epic storyline. Amazing writing and acting - why can't more games focus on narrative instead of just graphics
  19. PeterE
    Nov 20, 2009
    9
    For RPG I could care less about graphics, as long as the story is gripping and the game will last me a long time it is good in my book. This game has a great story, the combat is not as bad as I thought it was going to be, and to be honest it is pretty easy. I love the decision making and interaction you have with others and your party members, definitely a must have for true RPG fans.. For RPG I could care less about graphics, as long as the story is gripping and the game will last me a long time it is good in my book. This game has a great story, the combat is not as bad as I thought it was going to be, and to be honest it is pretty easy. I love the decision making and interaction you have with others and your party members, definitely a must have for true RPG fans.. But the PC version is the best because of the top view and because on the PC version there will be alot of cool add ons.… Expand
  20. DrGulag
    Nov 20, 2009
    10
    Greatest console RPG yet! It's simply a master piece from Bioware. People might complain about the graphics but this game is so much more than that. Causality, every action will have a consequence. So much depth. !
  21. JayS
    Nov 8, 2009
    9
    If you can ignore what Tyler said if you will, this is not a port from a 360. The 360 suffers from the same bugs and worse, if you must know. In any case, yes, the PC version is superior, yes the game has a bugs. But none of them are big enough to really ignore such a marvelous game. The story, the setting, the characters and the gameplay are all great and beyond. If you're annoyed If you can ignore what Tyler said if you will, this is not a port from a 360. The 360 suffers from the same bugs and worse, if you must know. In any case, yes, the PC version is superior, yes the game has a bugs. But none of them are big enough to really ignore such a marvelous game. The story, the setting, the characters and the gameplay are all great and beyond. If you're annoyed by simple bugs, then yes, don't get it. Otherwise I highly recommend the game.… Expand
  22. yourmother
    Dec 1, 2009
    10
    best rpg since baldurs gate2. the story is epic and the battles well balanced. who cres about graphics that are no match for uncharted? There used to be a time when gameplay was important.
  23. TyeS
    Dec 4, 2009
    9
    The world is fully realized. The main characters are intriguing. The gameplay, while familiar, is excellently executed. This game will please those who have come to love the Bioware experience and maybe convert some newcomers along the way.
  24. Yoyommmmmm
    Nov 11, 2009
    10
    I love it. A truly amazing game with a compelling story that grabs you the minute you start playing. The combat system is.....interesting for some and might be a turn off for others but you should play this game either way. it's worth it
  25. CasonG
    Nov 25, 2009
    9
    It may not be the prettiest game available, but that isn't what matters. As a game, it is a very enjoyable experience, with an interesting story and non-standard quests, that will take 100s of hours of my life... following behind Fallout 3 and Oblivion.
  26. JonSmon
    Nov 26, 2009
    10
    Amazing game. So much gameplay. Great story and dialogue. Though my only complaint is my wife loves it so much I hardly get to play it! I hope they put out a ton of expansions for this one! Best RPG ever!!
  27. [ANONYMOUS]
    Nov 6, 2009
    10
    Classic RPG. Great story. Deep compelling combat.
  28. TonyY
    Dec 10, 2009
    9
    Epic RPG, the story could have been shorter and this could have had more impact on player. Overall an expereince was really good, if you can't stand Jap RPG but like the gameplay to be similar. You will love this.
  29. GT2
    Dec 16, 2009
    8
    Before you buy the game here is the checklist: 1) You like true RPG games (NOT action "RPG-like" hack n slash games). 2) You are interested in a good story and enjoy dialogue. The dialogue in the game is not there just to progress through cutscenes, it is as much part of the game as fighting. 3) It is not hack n' slash. You control any character at any one time and you guide him Before you buy the game here is the checklist: 1) You like true RPG games (NOT action "RPG-like" hack n slash games). 2) You are interested in a good story and enjoy dialogue. The dialogue in the game is not there just to progress through cutscenes, it is as much part of the game as fighting. 3) It is not hack n' slash. You control any character at any one time and you guide him towards the enemy and press once to attack. You only press buttons to use special moves called talents. 4) If english is not your native lang make sure you know above average. 5) Don't neglect to read the codex pages as you find them. They explain the story so you always know what the NPCs are talking about. 6) You can control everything about your party's AI if you like and micromanage everything but you can also focus on your character alone without much thought of anything else. It's your choise. Just make sure you play on the NORMAL difficulty, otherwise it may seem too easy. If you are OK with these points then you are going to enjoy this game. It is a massive, epic single player game. The story although not original is very well written, the characters are very interesting, the battles are great. The only complaint I have about this game is that it is not open world (like oblivion). A very good game nonetheless.… Expand
  30. vineetb
    Dec 26, 2009
    9
    if i want to define this game in one word i would say - awesome.never played a game in which evey decision has its own repercussion. i m not giving this game10 merely bec. of 1 reason & ie graphics.i have played uc2 & ac2 recently & graphics are stupendous but dragon age is a true value for money. no second thoughts about it.
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Awards & Rankings

20
#20 Best PS3 Game of 2009
10
#10 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2009
3
#3 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 41 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 41
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 41
  3. Negative: 0 out of 41
  1. IGN AU
    84
    It's a delight to give into a fantasy setting with such a dense back story, even if the gameplay still rarely breaks away from conventions established a decade ago.
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  2. GameSpot
    90
    Incredible storytelling, great characters, and exciting battles are just a few of the things that make this fantasy role-playing game so extraordinary.
    Read full review
  3. Giant Bomb
    100
    This is definitely not the game for those frightened of the idea of micromanaging a game to the point where a large portion of it will be spent in a pause screen. However, as the sort of guy that has lovingly played an Infinity Engine game at least once every year for the past decade, I can think of no higher praise for this throwback than to say that Dragon Age: Origins leaves me feeling fairly confident I won't need to dig out the classics for this ritual next year.
    Read full review
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