Dragon Age: Origins

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 863 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 666 out of 863
  2. Mixed: 100 out of 863
  3. Negative: 97 out of 863
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  1. Diogenes4evr
    Mar 14, 2011
    9
    I have completed this game 14 times so far and still want to play it. The characters are genuinely funny and charming. The story is epic and the choices I made seem to really affect the world. Gameplay is a tad on the slow side but allows for some tactical manouvering. Graphics are not great but the immersion more than makes up for that. Amazing experience from BioWare a must get game.
  2. Saeta
    Mar 13, 2011
    8
    ¡Por los Guardas grises!

    Bastante tarde, aunque ya saben el dicho... Llega el analisis de uno de los mejores videojuegos que nos ha deparado la generación con caracteristicas bastante peculiares y con el respaldo de un estudio ya acostumbrado a crear obras maestras, como lo es BioWare.

    â
  3. DeVr33z
    Mar 11, 2011
    9
    It's much more linear than a game like Oblivion, but that's okay because all of paths you are able to go on are awesome. Dragon Age Origins feels like an old-school RPG in the best way possible. The combat is paced so that you can strategize effectively and still feel the excitement of battle, and the story and characters are excellent. My highest recommendations for any RPG fan.
  4. carlhume
    Mar 11, 2011
    10
    Dragon Age: Origins gripped me from the very beginning. I have fully played through the game with three separate characters, and had a partial play through with a fourth. I've easily invested several hundred hours playing, and loved every minute. Out of everything I like about the game, there are two components that stand out:
    1) I had to make difficult decisions with no obvious right    Dragon Age: Origins gripped me from the very beginning. I have fully played through the game with three separate characters, and had a partial play through with a fourth. I've easily invested several hundred hours playing, and loved every minute. Out of everything I like about the game, there are two components that stand out:
    1) I had to make difficult decisions with no obvious right answer, and my decisions had impact.
    2) The character interactions were outstanding. I loved learning about what made each of my party members tick.

    The game was outstanding, and made it easy for me to decide to pre-order the sequel (something I have never done before).    … Expand
  5. thelawgiver
    Mar 9, 2011
    7
    A fun and engaging game that tends to be clunky and surprisingly one-dimensional at times. DA:O tells a great story, with rich characters, a riveting plot and superb writing/voice acting. However, this game gives off the appearance of variety and freedom when, in fact, it lends itself very strongly to only certain strategies. Combat is fun, but can be repetitive. Additionally, unlike inA fun and engaging game that tends to be clunky and surprisingly one-dimensional at times. DA:O tells a great story, with rich characters, a riveting plot and superb writing/voice acting. However, this game gives off the appearance of variety and freedom when, in fact, it lends itself very strongly to only certain strategies. Combat is fun, but can be repetitive. Additionally, unlike in better-designed RPGs, not every build can be good at combat. The rogue build is useless in the later portions of the game when enemies become quite strong, and the tank is...well, the tank is never fun to play. The DD can be fun to play, but mages are just so powerful that it doesn't make sense to control another character. This problem could be avoided if the system to control the actions of your party members were more exhaustive, as in FFXII, but it isn't. Even the story plays to a specific role. Want to be the bad guy? You'll lose several of your characters permanently, because they disagree with your choices. The most powerful healer in the game has TWO opportunities to leave your party, if you make decisions she doesn't like, and it's pretty hard to trudge through the end of the game without her.

    The level system feels limited, as well. You level a lot early on, and rarely later in the game. Additionally, certain skill trees are really just not that useful. Again, there appears to be many choices, but few are of those choices are meaningful or appealing.

    Finally, the game does not have high replay value. You quickly notice that much of DA:O's appeal came from its story, plot and characters. Once you've gone through it once, a second playthrough feels like yeoman's work. You'll find yourself skipping almost all the dialogue, wishing some of the long, drawn-out linear portions of the game (specifically, the Fade) were shorter or non-existent, and probably building the same character you built in your last play through...because there are really few viable builds.

    But all that said, DA:O tells a great story and is an entertaining and rewarding experience.    … Expand
  6. norse
    Mar 8, 2011
    10
    Best game I have ever played. I realize this much more so, given how much I hated the sequel... I loved the dialogue, the environments, the story and the variety. Oh DA:O, you'll be missed.
  7. Nosidda89
    Feb 28, 2011
    10
    I was never a big fan of Bioware at all. In fact, when I first put this game in my 360, I was already having doubts on if this game will be good, because I tried Mass Effect, which is considered to be Biowares best game, and didn't like it. I admit that the game looked good when I first saw it. A friend of mine decided to let me borrow his copy of Dragon Age, which he later said I couldI was never a big fan of Bioware at all. In fact, when I first put this game in my 360, I was already having doubts on if this game will be good, because I tried Mass Effect, which is considered to be Biowares best game, and didn't like it. I admit that the game looked good when I first saw it. A friend of mine decided to let me borrow his copy of Dragon Age, which he later said I could keep with no charge. Thanks Josh. So, why am I thanking my friend for a game by Bioware, a company I never liked? I'll tell you why. Because this game IS AMAZING!!!!! I'll be perfectly honest, Oblivion is one of my favorite RPG's ever, but I think Dragon Age actually beats it. I'm already looking forward to Dragon Age II, it has become one of my most anticipated games on 2011. So since I only have 5000 characters per review, let's get to the game. The most important aspect in any game is, of course, the gameplay. So, how is the gameplay in Dragon Age? Outstanding! It's like a very fast paced version of the Final Fantasy XI battle system, except much more active. You're not hacking and slashing, but it's still a very active system. Don't you worry Turn-Based Haters, this game is not turn based at all. They basically took the turn-based battle system from FFXI, and removed the turn-based part of it. Absolute genius! You can also set techniques to your quick cast buttons, much like setting your items to the C-buttons in Zelda. This makes it easier, because anything that's not set to your quick cast buttons, you can only cast by opening up the ability menu, and selecting it. However, this is quick, and is a great way to pause the game if you need to observe the battle and decide a change in strategy. Of course like any other advanced RPG, you can create your character to your liking. You can choose between 3 races. Human, Elf, and Dwarf. I decided to be an elf. After that, you choose your job. You can choose one of 3 jobs. Warrior, Rogue, and Mage. I decided to be a rogue, because I like sneaking around and being quick. Each job has 4 specializations that you choose from after unlocking them through quests in the game. The rogue specialization I chose first was Duelist, which is a person who can deal very good damage, and is very good at dodging attacks, and is best with dual wielding daggers. I later made Archer as my 2nd specialization, that one should be obvious. But in case you don't get it, it means you use a bow and arrow. Each time you level up, you get points to spend on character attributes to make him stronger. You do the same with your party members. By the way, you don't travel alone, you have a party with you. So obviously, this means you have to keep a well organized party. As far as the story goes, the story starts off differently for every race, but it all leads down to the same story. You become a Grey Warden, a special warrior meant to protect the people from the darkspawn. Of course that's up to you. The game has the same choice system as Mass Effect, so the choices you make will affect you later on, and you can choose to be a good guy or a bad guy. Not only will your decisions affect you later in this game, but they will also affect you in Dragon Age II, so choose your path wisely. In either case though, you have to gather allies from around the world by either helping them solve their problems so they can aid you, or by forcing them to aid you. The only problem with this game is it's difficulty. Casual mode is too easy, but Normal mode is way too freakin hard. It's like the game completely skipped Normal mode and decided to make Normal mode hard mode. Even the hardcore RPG players are usually playing the game on casual mode, because Normal mode is way too hard, it's nearly impossible. One can only imagine how difficult Hard and Nightmare modes are. I have yet to hear of anyone who can play the game all the way through on Nightmare mode. All and all, fantastic game, and it deserves every penny you pay for it. It has to be one of the best RPG's of all time, so if you love RPG's, pick this game up. Mass Effect ain't got **** on Dragon Age! 10/10.… Expand
  8. hun09081209
    Feb 18, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is what you call an rpg. the story like is really good and keeps you drawn to the game. you find your self needing to complete with all the races and classes that are available to play . the game play can be a bit similar to other stuff on the market but you dont really notice it while you are playing. Dragon Age: origins i do recommend to rpg players.… Expand
  9. CMeOnce
    Feb 9, 2011
    7
    I was so looking forward to get my hand on this game, only to be face with dissapointed. The story line is pretty good, and the voice acting are top notch, but how the developer tried to make this game not to be is what made this game not so appealing to me. After almost 16 hours of playing time (I did't do any of the side quest), I'm almost about to give up on this game. It take tooI was so looking forward to get my hand on this game, only to be face with dissapointed. The story line is pretty good, and the voice acting are top notch, but how the developer tried to make this game not to be is what made this game not so appealing to me. After almost 16 hours of playing time (I did't do any of the side quest), I'm almost about to give up on this game. It take too long and very long conversation just to get the mission and it takes longer to get it start. They are just too many long dialoque with options (which what you choose will effect the story) which make this game so slow and long. I want more fights, treasure lots, boss fights, which this game doesn;t give it to you. But when you do get to fight, this is where the game shine. Combat sequences are fast, great animations and plenty of powers to play with, which you'll get new one each time you level up. This could have been a game that I would spend hundreds of ours playing it, but it fell short. I might give it another try someday.… Expand
  10. Vicissitude
    Jan 14, 2011
    9
    This is good RPG with some good characters, intriguing options, and a decent story. I disagree that it's the "spiritual successor" of Baldur's Gate (though even DA's creators don't claim that), but I'm not really sure that DA tries to be anything other than a new fantasy RP IP and a good one at that. It's much more focused on action and character development than Baldur's Gate, whileThis is good RPG with some good characters, intriguing options, and a decent story. I disagree that it's the "spiritual successor" of Baldur's Gate (though even DA's creators don't claim that), but I'm not really sure that DA tries to be anything other than a new fantasy RP IP and a good one at that. It's much more focused on action and character development than Baldur's Gate, while lacking the depth and richness of the environment and narrative of the BG series. Combat can be a bit wonky. I recommend being a mage for the greatest flexibility and tactical strength. Anyway, this is a fine RPG, but it's clear that Mass Effect is Bioware's flagship RPG series. Maybe Dragon Age 2 will prove me wrong, but ME2 set the bar pretty high. Unless you greatly prefer fantasy to sci-fi, choose to play Mass Effect before this.… Expand
  11. Samtheman25
    Dec 13, 2010
    9
    Very, very satisfying game. The customization ability in the game is superb. So many choices in creating your character physically as well as classes and special abilities. The game also has a great storyline and history to it. I'm sure if you took the time to read everything that you pick up along the way, it would read much like a fantastical story. The game can be difficult at a fewVery, very satisfying game. The customization ability in the game is superb. So many choices in creating your character physically as well as classes and special abilities. The game also has a great storyline and history to it. I'm sure if you took the time to read everything that you pick up along the way, it would read much like a fantastical story. The game can be difficult at a few points but for a beginning gamer, it should be a simple task on the easiest difficulty. There is tons of replay ability in the game. It will make you want to change characters and play a whole new storyline. It took me around 25 hours to complete and i didn't do too many side quests. The DLC will add a pretty substanial amount of time as well. The audio is great and a few characters really stand out in their voice acting. The one complaint I have with the game is the graphics and bugs along the way. There are many blotched settings and bugged conversations, which can get annoying. However, the game was tremendous and i recommend it to somebody who loves RPG's. Overall: 8.7/10.… Expand
  12. roachtbp
    Nov 29, 2010
    10
    This game is amazing. The graphics are not great for a 360 game, but everything else is way above average. Great story, great characters, great voice acting, great music, and very challenging gameplay (at least if you play it on Nightmare). The gameplay is very strategic, and it is very rewarding to finally win a difficult battle after many tries. Also, the characters are so wellThis game is amazing. The graphics are not great for a 360 game, but everything else is way above average. Great story, great characters, great voice acting, great music, and very challenging gameplay (at least if you play it on Nightmare). The gameplay is very strategic, and it is very rewarding to finally win a difficult battle after many tries. Also, the characters are so well developed that they truly come to life on screen. This is my favorite RPG for the Xbox 360.… Expand
  13. samtheham56
    Oct 27, 2010
    8
    The main story is very good and has a lot of great quests. Unfortunately it is not helped by the poor graphics and the fact the main quest is very very hard.
  14. Shockwave
    Sep 9, 2010
    8
    Dragon Age for the XBOX lives under the shadow of its PC counterpart. Many of the criticisms that can be tossed at the console version such as its graphic, GUI and companion control issues are non issues on the PC. But if you don't have a PC that can play DA don't let that persuade you to pass on this game though. After losing its license for Dungeons and Dragons, Bioware did a fine jobDragon Age for the XBOX lives under the shadow of its PC counterpart. Many of the criticisms that can be tossed at the console version such as its graphic, GUI and companion control issues are non issues on the PC. But if you don't have a PC that can play DA don't let that persuade you to pass on this game though. After losing its license for Dungeons and Dragons, Bioware did a fine job of constructing their own in depth world although admittedly not nearly as vast as Forgotten Realms. Those that enjoy reading about the world via codex entry will be in heaven here. I personally missed quite a bit of information because I didn't follow-up and read all the entries (and there are LOTS of them) as I came across them. Sometimes I would complete missions I didn't even know I was on. I think that the tsunami wave of back story you find in the world is an attempt to quickly build the history and mythology of Ferelden to be as immersive as the world of Baldur's Gate. As overwhelming a task as it may seem, they've done an awesome job (let us give a toast). I also appreciate the mature content in this game. I find that game studios are becoming more prudish when it comes to sexual content and gender roles but more liberal with graphic violence and death. Not that this game overly objectifies a particular gender but at the same time I didn't feel like I was in an after school special. My fear is that this game is among a dying bread of adult games and that game studios in the future will create nothing but PG and PG 13 like games. Support Mature games and buy Dragon Age!… Expand
  15. Altarian
    Aug 24, 2010
    7
    I really should have liked this game more than I did. Here's how it lost points: game play and storyline was very derivative (this is D&D Neverwinter Nights re-packaged, folks), the game is so restricted to such a small part of this fantasy world, I felt claustrophobic and finally parts (not too much) of the game was tedious and boring, boring, boring. With a little work, this could haveI really should have liked this game more than I did. Here's how it lost points: game play and storyline was very derivative (this is D&D Neverwinter Nights re-packaged, folks), the game is so restricted to such a small part of this fantasy world, I felt claustrophobic and finally parts (not too much) of the game was tedious and boring, boring, boring. With a little work, this could have been a legendary RPG.… Expand
  16. TheFloydster
    Aug 14, 2010
    9
    An epic immersive storyline, some fantastically humorous and emotionally engaging characters (Oghren and Alistair for myself). A somewhat clunky and combat system to begin with, but definitely one of the better ones for its genre. A huge campaign quest line and side quests that can take from 40 -100 hours depending on your own speed and interest. Each of my play throughs has taken ~60An epic immersive storyline, some fantastically humorous and emotionally engaging characters (Oghren and Alistair for myself). A somewhat clunky and combat system to begin with, but definitely one of the better ones for its genre. A huge campaign quest line and side quests that can take from 40 -100 hours depending on your own speed and interest. Each of my play throughs has taken ~60 hours, considering few games last longer than 10 hours of gameplay this is a great investment.… Expand
  17. MKing
    Feb 18, 2010
    4
    I have to say the game started off well but quickly lost it's appeal. It was insanely boring and tedious as another review stated. Also, in my opinion, having additional party members is required to survive the sheer number of enemies at time but when you're playing different classes and need time to position yourself, you quickly find yourself missing out on the action by the I have to say the game started off well but quickly lost it's appeal. It was insanely boring and tedious as another review stated. Also, in my opinion, having additional party members is required to survive the sheer number of enemies at time but when you're playing different classes and need time to position yourself, you quickly find yourself missing out on the action by the time you get there.… Expand
  18. TerryG
    Feb 6, 2010
    7
    Bioware definitely disappointed me here. Don't get me wrong the game is solid, but when held up to the past achievements I was definitely disappointed. The graphics were on par with ME1 and the story felt tedious at times. With a blockbuster like ME2 right on the heels of Dragon Age you'd think that Bioware would have polished the graphics a little more. Definitely don't Bioware definitely disappointed me here. Don't get me wrong the game is solid, but when held up to the past achievements I was definitely disappointed. The graphics were on par with ME1 and the story felt tedious at times. With a blockbuster like ME2 right on the heels of Dragon Age you'd think that Bioware would have polished the graphics a little more. Definitely don't miss this game because it is enjoyable, just don't set your standards to high.… Expand
  19. Vanimal
    Feb 5, 2010
    5
    Where to start... BORING! Let's start with the good, though. The world created is well done and the choices they force on you are great. The bad now...The combat is the worst ever thought of. Same f'in' thing over and over. And over. Setting up your guys to do stuff is cool, but that is where it ends. The story is boring and the graphics are terrible. Look at a tree in that Where to start... BORING! Let's start with the good, though. The world created is well done and the choices they force on you are great. The bad now...The combat is the worst ever thought of. Same f'in' thing over and over. And over. Setting up your guys to do stuff is cool, but that is where it ends. The story is boring and the graphics are terrible. Look at a tree in that game and you will understand. The conversation choices could be brought down to 2 choices, because you will only need to answer yes or no, basically. The rest they tell you whether you want to hear it or not. It is essentially KOTOR 7 years later with zero improvements and way worse combat. Bioware is way overrated. Mass Effect sucked, too.… Expand
  20. TRoberts
    Jan 21, 2010
    10
    This is the best RPG-game i played i hope mass effect2 will be better but this game is also great
  21. pimpdown
    Jan 18, 2010
    5
    BORING! TEDIOUS! MIND NUMBING! The fighting is the fun but it is so hard to get to. 1. First the world map sucks. There are 7 or 8 major areas and each major area has multiple subareas. You cannot acces the sub areas from the world map. You have to go to the main area and then walkthrough that entire level to get to the sublevel you need to get to. A sheer waste of time. You have to do BORING! TEDIOUS! MIND NUMBING! The fighting is the fun but it is so hard to get to. 1. First the world map sucks. There are 7 or 8 major areas and each major area has multiple subareas. You cannot acces the sub areas from the world map. You have to go to the main area and then walkthrough that entire level to get to the sublevel you need to get to. A sheer waste of time. You have to do this a lot because of the limited inventory. You will be in the middle of a dungeon and have to walk all the way out and then, walk out of the sublevel(s) to get to one of the main areas where the stores are. So much walking, walking is not gameplay but you will spend more time walking then anything else. Fast travel was invented so people who wanted to actually play the game could do that. 2. Looting is made boring as hell because of this. You have to buy extra backpack slots but to do that you need money so you have to sell everything to afford the overpriced crap. Why is a damn backpack so expensive? Nothing you do will make you money. The economy is hell bent on destroying you. Crafting loses you money. You cannot get ahead financially. 3. Interface on console is a jumbled mess, this game is so cluttered with unmanageable crap that it easy to tell the console version(s) were an afterthought. There is a lot of info and very little space to manage it in. 4. The color palette is bland as hell and the textures are trash. Lots of clipping to, should be called clipfest 09. 5. Talking=suck! So you have to have long drawn out conversations. You get various conversation options but you have no idea where these will lead. You will undoubtedly be mean to someone when you were trying to be nice or cut off a conversation tree when you are trying to get extra information for making a pertinent decision. You will loses quests because you picked the wrong phrase. That is trash! 6. Beatdowns! You will get beatdown by random creatures that are not bosses. Anything from the fade will own you until you acquire certain items. Random fights where your party faces one creature will suck because you will get pounded out. The combat and story are great but they are blocked by some much extemporaneous dreck that you will undoubtedly be made miserable trying to get to it.… Expand
  22. peterD
    Jan 12, 2010
    8
    this game is one of the better. the storyline is definately its best quality, managing to keep you drawn into the universe of origins at all times. You get a great feel for the Characters, and you start to learn their ways, ideal and principles quickly, andd you learn to predict what their choices would be in the situation. impressive and rarely seen if you ask me. gameplaywise, it doesnt this game is one of the better. the storyline is definately its best quality, managing to keep you drawn into the universe of origins at all times. You get a great feel for the Characters, and you start to learn their ways, ideal and principles quickly, andd you learn to predict what their choices would be in the situation. impressive and rarely seen if you ask me. gameplaywise, it doesnt manage to do anything specificly new, other than the tactical element. but i get the general feeling, that the difficulty curve is very deform. some things appear very easy, but some things, like random encounters, are absolutely punishing. there were a lot of thing s that were absurdly difficult, and that drew the game away from me. and, before you start pointing fingers, i did spend a lot of time in pause… Expand
  23. RockyB
    Jan 5, 2010
    8
    phics suck for a modern game but the story is awesome. I also like how the origins thing worked.. Game is fun but controls in some of the battles having to pause to direct your teammates was a litte tricky. Once again the story made up for everything
  24. HollyC
    Jan 4, 2010
    8
    This is the first time I've gone for a Bioware RPG on Xbox, rather than my PC-- and I'm kinda wishing I had gotten DragonAge for the PC. A couple reasons-- the graphics I've seen for the PC version are remarkably better also the pause factor standard with all Bioware stuff is still much better on a PC--along with combat control/micromanaging. However, even with the This is the first time I've gone for a Bioware RPG on Xbox, rather than my PC-- and I'm kinda wishing I had gotten DragonAge for the PC. A couple reasons-- the graphics I've seen for the PC version are remarkably better also the pause factor standard with all Bioware stuff is still much better on a PC--along with combat control/micromanaging. However, even with the lackluster porting from PC to Xbox, DragonAge Origins is one stellar RPG--more akin to Baldur's Gate than Oblivion (yay for NPC party). The characters, relationships and story arc you create are completely immersive and soon you forget all about the console issues--which is a massive compliment to the story of the game. My few gameplay issues: Vast amount of quests--and sometimes they aren't real clear (or mapped) --making it a chore to rifle through them--much easier to do on PC, not so much on the XBox. A couple environments were difficult to figure out b/c of this--and sometimes the payoff was so little that the whole quest felt kind of like a job rather than fun. Same with some dialog choices--decisions--subtle responses can change your entire game if you're not careful, and unless you want to replay the game a bajillion times to get different outcomes, you find yourself reloading to get the outcome that feels best instead--which I don't think was the intention. However, the main story arc was so solid and epic that it's worth it all. As others said, the story is pretty much ripped wholesale from others (LotR especially)--but it doesn't matter--it's still epic and totally fun.… Expand
  25. JohanA
    Jan 4, 2010
    8
    Good story, interesting world and characters with lots of fun action. The graphics are not great and the GUI for reading codex entries is horrible.
  26. GommbawaJ
    Jan 3, 2010
    10
    The most compelling, engaging and emotional storyline of any RPG to date. Make that any game, actually. This was a near perfect game imo, the only improvements I'd make is in the loot and tactics system. But that can be improved in the next release. Really, really want to congratulate the team. Amazing game.
  27. MikelH
    Dec 25, 2009
    8
    Dragon Age: Origins... what a game, really! In all the reviews I read before purchasing my own copy, the main complaint about this game was most definitely the graphics. Myself, I still found them really nice, but that's because I am accustomed to Wii and last generation consoles. I just got my 360 recently. Still, as I became acquainted with the 360 graphics, I did find myself Dragon Age: Origins... what a game, really! In all the reviews I read before purchasing my own copy, the main complaint about this game was most definitely the graphics. Myself, I still found them really nice, but that's because I am accustomed to Wii and last generation consoles. I just got my 360 recently. Still, as I became acquainted with the 360 graphics, I did find myself grimacing at the horrid lack of sharpness. Some things are downright ugly, which is strange because the exact same areas, like facial hair for example, are so well done in Mass Effect. Strange... graphics are my only real complaint though. The story is incredible. Most fantasy novels, and there are countless ones out there, could not hope to compete with the storyline of DA. DA is like an incredibly epic 6 novel series, beloved and classic, adored for generations for its detail, imagination, and majesty. If you ever wanted to play a game that felt as epic as watching or reading Lord of the Rings, but still felt totally original and not as a Tolkien rip off. You've got it here. Granted, there are huge homages to Tolkein, but the approach to generally stereotyped species like elves, dwarves, even orcs (who are renamed "darkspawn" in this game). These species are reimagined in ways I had never thought of before and was incredibly drawn in and fascinated to see. The world is so real, so immersive (The codex is so huge, so well thought out, that you'll fancy yourself a Ferelden scholar by the time it's over). The darkspawn are generally much more evil and chilling than even Peter Jackson's orcs, and I found them an incredibly chilling foe to face, but abominations are pretty horrifying too. Character development: top notch. You'll love these characters, and some you'll be irritated by, not because of their voice or looks, but because of their actual character. There are multiple gut-wrenching moral decisions that are genuinely difficult to make, that you must think deeply about. Very few companies can make you care about the characters in a game like Bioware do. Great game. Incredible story, characters, imagination, and atmosphere. Absolutely nauseating graphics. I'd say it's worth it.… Expand
  28. JasonG
    Dec 15, 2009
    7
    I finished playing Assassin's Creed 2 right before starting Dragon Age on 360. Dear god this game is ugly in comparison. I could barely force myself keep playing it, but now that I'm a few hours into it its getting pretty fun. I still don't understand how the same people who released a pretty RPG like ME could release something that looks like this, but the gameplay is I finished playing Assassin's Creed 2 right before starting Dragon Age on 360. Dear god this game is ugly in comparison. I could barely force myself keep playing it, but now that I'm a few hours into it its getting pretty fun. I still don't understand how the same people who released a pretty RPG like ME could release something that looks like this, but the gameplay is pretty intriguing.… Expand
  29. JeremyM
    Dec 13, 2009
    9
    The story of this game is extremely well written. I love the fact that you have so many different starting options. The control scheme takes about 10 minutes to get used to, but once you start playing,,, hours pass before you realize that you've been engrossed for so long!
  30. MikeK
    Dec 13, 2009
    9
    This has to be one of the best RPGs i have played in a very long time, if you like Knights of the old republic, baldurs gate, never winter knights, you will love this game its one of my personal favorites don't let other people tell you other wise!
  31. PoiterA
    Dec 12, 2009
    8
    Awesome game initial graphics are a let down but u soon become acustomed to that. Mad story even if it feels like its been taken from movies and other games. Combat system is fun. It is hard sometimes in pause combat to direct everyone. Quests can be mapped poorly or confusing. The origin idea is fantastic and all in all a solid game...
  32. BrandonW
    Dec 6, 2009
    1
    The first eight hours of play where fun. After that mark the game went from fun and easy to retarded and not fun. They monsters advance way to fast for you to keep up with. The massive amount of npc talk gets very boring very quick. I was disappointed in the game.
  33. Killacure
    Dec 2, 2009
    10
    This game is so rich in story and the pay off for time spent in its lavish world is untouchable.
  34. PhilC
    Nov 29, 2009
    9
    This game is easily one of the best RPGs ever produced. While the system is a bit difficult to get used to because one is not able to micromanage like the old school games, I still think it was awesome. After three playthroughs I'm still digging through my options and I can play the game through differently every time. The choices here are not black and white... very shades of gray, This game is easily one of the best RPGs ever produced. While the system is a bit difficult to get used to because one is not able to micromanage like the old school games, I still think it was awesome. After three playthroughs I'm still digging through my options and I can play the game through differently every time. The choices here are not black and white... very shades of gray, which is exactly how it should be. I don't get the complaints about the graphics. My only complaint is that I wish it were more seamless like Oblivion.. but that's not what Bioware does.… Expand
  35. JimsumB
    Nov 29, 2009
    9
    Best game from them since KOTOR - this game is KOTOR but with swords and shields instead of lightsabres. When i was originally waiting for Mass Effect i was hoping for more of a Jade Empire/KOTOR experience but was let down but overjoyed that a different direction still hooked me,now im overjoyed as i have a game that reminds me of KOTOR and Jade Empire,and love a new direction with Mass Best game from them since KOTOR - this game is KOTOR but with swords and shields instead of lightsabres. When i was originally waiting for Mass Effect i was hoping for more of a Jade Empire/KOTOR experience but was let down but overjoyed that a different direction still hooked me,now im overjoyed as i have a game that reminds me of KOTOR and Jade Empire,and love a new direction with Mass Effect that has a sequel on the way and being a big fan of all of Bioware games i can only hope they continue the good work.Who knows where their emotional engine they use within their games will be in many years time.The only game where the the dialogue and choices you make actually makie a difference and shaping the world around you its a win win situation for me. 9 out of 10 although it would have got a 9.5 if they had ironed out all the bugs and made the graphics just a tad better.… Expand
  36. BarryD.Great
    Nov 27, 2009
    9
    Playing this game as a Mage characters seems to be the way to go. I initially started out with a warrior and the combat seems a little wonky-kind of just alot going on and somewhat difficult to determine how much impact your character is contributing to the fight. I think the mage combat is really good generally because you can stand back away from the action and allow your player to do Playing this game as a Mage characters seems to be the way to go. I initially started out with a warrior and the combat seems a little wonky-kind of just alot going on and somewhat difficult to determine how much impact your character is contributing to the fight. I think the mage combat is really good generally because you can stand back away from the action and allow your player to do damage and heal. Its much easier to grasp your impact on the game. I find the graphics to be fine with no real issues and the story line is as good as I seen in any game this year. You have to be a fan of this genre in order to fully enjoy this game. I can easily see people either love it or hate it.… Expand
  37. D.E.
    Nov 25, 2009
    9
    + Addicting. Hours can be spent outfitting your party. Visuals, you grow accustomed to them. Feel like a major BA while laying waste to large groups of enemies. After playing for several quests it gets much easier to switch between party members and use all their amazing abilities. Must buy. - Poor looting system
  38. SamC.
    Nov 24, 2009
    9
    Graphics are decent, story and world are incredible, combat is, in my opinion, extremely fun. Sometimes, and this isn't always the case, it seems like the dialogues can drag on (when you're in the mood to kick some ass, I mean) and it would've been cool to give the main character a voice. Also, Roger R and Zac whatever, are idiots.
  39. Vikings#1
    Nov 22, 2009
    9
    Beside the character models, this game's graphics are xbox or ps2 type. Still, the story is good and very long. I like the fact that the combat can either be hack-and-slash type or very tactical-strategy type. The only reasons this game is not a 10 are because of graphics and that it's not an true open-world rpg like Oblivion.
  40. BenjiH
    Nov 19, 2009
    6
    I have no desire to pick up the controller and continue with thousands of pointless and too-long conversations with NPCs that contain all the excitement of a touch-tone menu. The graphics are quite bland, but not as bad as Mass Effect's random planets. Most outdoor areas are devoid of details, just an ugly sloping ground plane with too-few plants dropped in. Sweeping views from high I have no desire to pick up the controller and continue with thousands of pointless and too-long conversations with NPCs that contain all the excitement of a touch-tone menu. The graphics are quite bland, but not as bad as Mass Effect's random planets. Most outdoor areas are devoid of details, just an ugly sloping ground plane with too-few plants dropped in. Sweeping views from high vantage points render comically. They could have taken some hints from Assassin's Creed or Fallout for how to make terrain beautiful. I LOVED BG and NWN. But with me, ME, JE, and KotR fell totally flat. Maybe these things just don't grab me on console... I'm about 12 hours into the game and it still hasn't really grabbed me. I'm waiting to be floored like most reviews say I should be, and after this long it still hasn't happened.… Expand
  41. JonathanW
    Nov 17, 2009
    9
    I can't give it a ten because of the graphics, yet a 9.4 to 9.7 seems fair enough to me. Some elements of the storyline are predictable, but the maturity level ,presentation, and quality of the story telling makes up for it. Political and social issuses in the game draw out real emotions from within making the game experience more personal. Futhermore, I enjoy the fact that you I can't give it a ten because of the graphics, yet a 9.4 to 9.7 seems fair enough to me. Some elements of the storyline are predictable, but the maturity level ,presentation, and quality of the story telling makes up for it. Political and social issuses in the game draw out real emotions from within making the game experience more personal. Futhermore, I enjoy the fact that you actually have to set your AI character tatics in some parts of the game in order to pprevent your party from wipping.… Expand
  42. MatteoK
    Nov 13, 2009
    7
    Definitly a good RPG and a good game, but i think it misses something. I yet don't know what since i've played it only 4 or 5 hours, but something is missing... that's why I give it "only" 7 instead of 8. Anyway, graphics look pretty good considering that this kind of games keep many and many hours of gameplay on a single disc. RPG have never been famous for graphics due to Definitly a good RPG and a good game, but i think it misses something. I yet don't know what since i've played it only 4 or 5 hours, but something is missing... that's why I give it "only" 7 instead of 8. Anyway, graphics look pretty good considering that this kind of games keep many and many hours of gameplay on a single disc. RPG have never been famous for graphics due to this. Compared to oblivion has some good points but also some lacks. Good: BIG enemies! Oblivion (apart from gamepacks) missed big monsters, here you find them. this is good. Party-based action, this is also good (for me). Lacks: fighting sometimes is a little bit chaotic. Less freedom of movement, you can't go everywhere, i.e. when the character reaches an edge i just stops, you can't fall... not that good...at least not that realistic, that's for sure. After all a good game, there aren't many RPG on modern consoles, so this one can cut itself a little piece of space to be played along with the others.… Expand
  43. TAS
    Nov 11, 2009
    6
    A difficult to navigate interface, bugs, sub-par graphics engine that just looks bad, bugs, difficulty level that jumps around like a bipolar flea at a dog show, and more bugs make this game a rental at best. I simply do NOT believe that Bioware actually developed this, more like the Bioware farm league. There are too many actual game bugs, inconsistencies, and just general bad design A difficult to navigate interface, bugs, sub-par graphics engine that just looks bad, bugs, difficulty level that jumps around like a bipolar flea at a dog show, and more bugs make this game a rental at best. I simply do NOT believe that Bioware actually developed this, more like the Bioware farm league. There are too many actual game bugs, inconsistencies, and just general bad design decisions to really call it a Bioware release. Don't be fooled for a second to think that this is the 3D version of Baldur's Gate. It isn't. The story is actually very good and the branches that you are FORCED to take are, for the most part, interesting, but the piss-poor interface and just bad gameplay, combined with the crushing difficulty level (even on Normal level, expect to restart. A LOT) applied to situations that you are forced into or cannot play around bring it down. And it doesn't really look like a 3rd generation graphics engine either. There are too many small, pixellated textures stretched over very large objects and a very washed out look to everything. Highly disappointing.… Expand
  44. MatthewH
    Nov 11, 2009
    9
    I would have preferred spoken dialog from the protagonist, and the graphics suffer from the occasional hiccup now and again. If we had been given a USB keyboard / mouse option, I'd be completely in love, but having spent time with Mass Effect, the controller commands were not particularly difficult to migrate to. Make no mistake, the content here is enormous and the execution with I would have preferred spoken dialog from the protagonist, and the graphics suffer from the occasional hiccup now and again. If we had been given a USB keyboard / mouse option, I'd be completely in love, but having spent time with Mass Effect, the controller commands were not particularly difficult to migrate to. Make no mistake, the content here is enormous and the execution with which it was made is nigh flawless. This is a game that oozes with the love and care of it's remarkably talented creators.… Expand
  45. DexterP.
    Nov 9, 2009
    9
    An Excellent adventure, If you're a fan of the Knights of the Old Republic series then you will feel right at home with BioWare's latest RPG. The Story line is magnificent, the character development and the combat can only be described as old school. The only reason it misses a 10 is because of some hit and miss voice acting and Graphics that can at times feel a little dated, An Excellent adventure, If you're a fan of the Knights of the Old Republic series then you will feel right at home with BioWare's latest RPG. The Story line is magnificent, the character development and the combat can only be described as old school. The only reason it misses a 10 is because of some hit and miss voice acting and Graphics that can at times feel a little dated, never the less, this is a game that BioWare fans, simply have to own.… Expand
  46. SysyphusT
    Nov 9, 2009
    8
    1up's score is not a 100. Their maximum score is A+ and they gave Dragon Age an A. So their score should be a 90 or so.
  47. nKayu
    Nov 9, 2009
    9
    Ok, this is not a graphic killer game, ok, the PC version is (maybe) superior than the consoles version... but it's an amazing game who locks me in front of my TV for hours... And for that I give it a 9 !
  48. BrentE
    Nov 8, 2009
    9
    I personally love the return to party based rpg. I loved Baldur's Gate, Icewind Dale, and NWN. Many people who never played those prefer their rpg's light - like Mass Effect - too short, too basic. I am enjoying DA:O and am still hoping for BG3 to come out one day. I don't see the big deal with the graphics myself. I prefer gameplay and story over them in my rpg's anyway.
  49. mh
    Nov 8, 2009
    9
    Almost positive the guy that gave the score of 1 on the first page hasn't even played this game since he described this game as "turn-based" when it is definitely not a turn-based rpg. But anyways, the graphics are average. Fabulous story, very entertaining world and characters, and one of the most addicting games I've played all year. Thought that the rogues were nerfed in the Almost positive the guy that gave the score of 1 on the first page hasn't even played this game since he described this game as "turn-based" when it is definitely not a turn-based rpg. But anyways, the graphics are average. Fabulous story, very entertaining world and characters, and one of the most addicting games I've played all year. Thought that the rogues were nerfed in the early character levels, but they get much better as they lvl up fortunately.… Expand
  50. ChrisP.
    Nov 8, 2009
    10
    K first off roger r. could not be more wrong in his analysis of the game. It's not turn based, so please play the game before you start giving it horrible reviews. Second this game is not for twelve year olds. If you are twelve years old i would stick with Halo 3 where you'll fit in with all the other mic screamers. Lastly this game is actually very good, if you like the RPG K first off roger r. could not be more wrong in his analysis of the game. It's not turn based, so please play the game before you start giving it horrible reviews. Second this game is not for twelve year olds. If you are twelve years old i would stick with Halo 3 where you'll fit in with all the other mic screamers. Lastly this game is actually very good, if you like the RPG elements of Oblivion you WILL like this game. Nothing is wrong with The Lord of the Rings references they were great movies. So please rent this game if you like RPG's or Bioware I promise you won't be disappointed.… Expand
  51. zach
    Nov 8, 2009
    8
    This is a good game. Although this game is decent the company was just tricking themselves into thinking this would be a ground-breaking game. I like the RPG elements but they actually are uminspired. Baulders Gate was much better and this is a lot better than Mass Effect. Overall I would say SAVE YOUR MONEY FOR MODERN WARFARE 2!!
  52. JoseM
    Nov 8, 2009
    10
    A brilliant RPG with combat which is a mixture of Mass Effect and KOTOR. As such, combined with an engaging story and interesting characters, all the elements of this game bond together to make arguably the best RPG on this generation of consoles.
  53. VincentM
    Nov 7, 2009
    10
    Fantastic game. No one can make RPG like Bioware. The dialogues are... just amazing. My vote for game of the year.
  54. JoshK
    Nov 7, 2009
    7
    After spending a little bit of time with this massive RPG, I must say that I am enjoying my experience. It's graphically inferior to the other 2 versions of the game and well below what should be expected from the game market of today however, the story will suck you in. Bioware always knows how to write great stories and create massive games that give you your money's worth. After spending a little bit of time with this massive RPG, I must say that I am enjoying my experience. It's graphically inferior to the other 2 versions of the game and well below what should be expected from the game market of today however, the story will suck you in. Bioware always knows how to write great stories and create massive games that give you your money's worth. All in all this is a very well polished and time consuming game and well worth the purchase if you are a Baldur's Gate fan. If you are looking for an experience more akin to Oblivion, I do not recommend this game.… Expand
  55. EdwardM.
    Nov 5, 2009
    7
    Uninspired. Combat is Neverwinter Nights with less options (like no action queuing) and the gambit system from Final Fantasy 12 (except with much shoddier AI). The world is well fleshed out, but there's so much useless fluff it actually detracts from the game experience: I don't need 5 minutes of dialogue trees from every pointless NPC just to know I'm in a "living world". Uninspired. Combat is Neverwinter Nights with less options (like no action queuing) and the gambit system from Final Fantasy 12 (except with much shoddier AI). The world is well fleshed out, but there's so much useless fluff it actually detracts from the game experience: I don't need 5 minutes of dialogue trees from every pointless NPC just to know I'm in a "living world". Like all Bioware games, you are set on a completely linear path with the illusion of choice, but only when it doesn't really matter, as the game just puts you back on path regardless. An extremely massive and well polished game, but ultimately, it's not actually very fun once the novelty of the world building and well developed generic story wears off.… Expand
  56. sceptic
    Nov 5, 2009
    3
    Incredibly poor graphics,combat,spells etc.I was expecting a better version of an Oblivion type game but instead forced myself to sit through this generic rubbish.I thought they had stopped making this type of crap years ago.It makes sacred:fallen angel look good;and it was rubbish too.Points for the awesome trailers.
  57. JoshC.
    Nov 4, 2009
    9
    I own the 360 version, and even with its presentational shortcomings (several other RPG's one-up it graphically - Specifically Oblivion and Bioware's own 2007 game Mass Effect just to name a couple), you'll love the story, design, and gameplay excellence for what it is: The true successor to the Baldur's Gate series.
  58. rogerr.
    Nov 4, 2009
    1
    Not the fast action game advertised. Turn based chess like game with wildy varying level confrontations, even with similar enemies throughout. Great story though. Buy lord of the rings dvds and reset DVD player randomly as you watch to replicate experience
  59. PanchoV.
    Nov 3, 2009
    10
    Even though it's visuals might not be state of the art - the story is totally engrossing and the world ha sucked me in. For the record, I actually prefer playing on the console to the PC, but that's probably just my taste in games these days.
  60. Griffen
    Nov 3, 2009
    9
    I can't believe all the companies saying that DA:O is out dated gameplay wise. It even says in the description that the game is returning to its roots. Mass Effect was a fun game, but why are all these guys comparing the two. One's a straight up RPG and the other is a Shooter-RPG. It's like comparing Baldaur's Gate and Borderlands.
  61. PatJ
    Nov 3, 2009
    10
    Got it yesterday and haven't been able to put it down. The sun came up before I realized how many hours had gone by and all I can think about at work is getting home to play it some more.
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Awards & Rankings

18
#18 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2009
7
#7 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2009
6
#6 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 68 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 65 out of 68
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 68
  3. Negative: 0 out of 68
  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.
    Read full review
  2. 3DJuegos
    87
    Despite its lack of innovation Dragon Age: Origins is the best RPG in 2009. Its great value and addictive gameplay are among its main highlights.
    Read full review
  3. GameSpot
    85
    Incredible storytelling, great characters, and exciting battles are just a few of the things that make this fantasy role-playing game so great.
    Read full review
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