Decisions in games that get carried over always manifest in a reverse-butterfly effect. Life-or death decisions made in the past result in simple, isolated changes in the future. It can't be any other way. The writers need a foundation of certainty to tell stories. For instance, if the Warden could have visited Kirkwall in Origins and burn it to the ground or siege it with Werewolves or leave it completely alone, you can bet that Hawke would be the champion of someplace else in everyone's DA2 game.
BioWare's Official Dragon Age 2 Podcast Episode 1: Lead Designer Mike Laidlaw (July 20, 2010)
Débuté par
Victor Wachter
, juil. 20 2010 06:45
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#127
Posté 23 juillet 2010 - 02:32
tez19
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this podcast has made me slightly less worried about dragon age 2. but i am still very dismayed with some of the decisions for the sequel.
(i.e, completely new story, change of art direction WTF!!!)
hopefully more podcasts will reveal more info and make me and indeed all of us optimistic for a sequel to a brilliant game.
if aint broke dont fix it...
(i.e, completely new story, change of art direction WTF!!!)
hopefully more podcasts will reveal more info and make me and indeed all of us optimistic for a sequel to a brilliant game.
if aint broke dont fix it...
#128
Posté 23 juillet 2010 - 07:04
Todd23
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Did you see the first art released for da1? It's pretty similar.tez19 wrote...
this podcast has made me slightly less worried about dragon age 2. but i am still very dismayed with some of the decisions for the sequel.
(i.e, completely new story, change of art direction WTF!!!)
hopefully more podcasts will reveal more info and make me and indeed all of us optimistic for a sequel to a brilliant game.
if aint broke dont fix it...
#129
Posté 23 juillet 2010 - 07:07
Todd23
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But what worries me is that with this new Hawke character they probably won't give my warden a proper death.
#130
Guest_[User Deleted]_*
Posté 24 juillet 2010 - 03:30
Guest_[User Deleted]_*
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Awesome Podcast intro! Mike... if you read my thread: (BIOWARE Has Always Been Two Steps Ahead, but Will Dragon Age II Suffer: Story Dearth, Dialogue Losses, Severed Emotional Connection with Our Companions (Like in DAO: Awakening?), you would see that my understanding of the Dragon Age universe is similar to yours. Thedas is indeed a huge world, and many stories or tales can be fashioned or told. I see DA II as another chapter into this immense world, and that we might/will see our Grey Warden in another chapter; that the decisions, which were grueling at times, we have made in Dragon Age Origins, will impact Thedas for some time, and may remain as long as Thedas exists. I am truly looking forward to more of these podcast sessions (Very informative and entertaining; for me, these sessions will allow me into the world, the minds of the writers and designers of this wondrous game; furthermore, they will provide opportunities to learn more, not only about the upcoming DA II, but about the world of Dragon Age in general.
You mentioned “Frame Narrative”; this type of storytelling is interesting. I simply hope the narrators, since Hawke’s story is told via a tenth year span and in retrospect (Frame Narrative) as that, do an awesome job. Some of the preliminary a la Freudian type of session screenshots are unappealing to me; this comment is based on the scant information/screenshots that are currently circulating. (Thus, it is my hope that these podcasts will enlighten us and provide us more enticing detailed information rather than distancing us from a story/game we truly enjoy).
Telling DA II from a third person’s point of view via narrators could be risky. (Will it detract, take the feel, the get go of the game as far as story and combat go? However, Mike, somehow, listening to your thoughts via this initial podcast, qualm some of my fears regarding this.) You also mentioned several examples of “Frame Narrative during the podcast; however, “The Notebook” (also Wuthering Heights) is truly a good example of “Frame Narrative”… a story within a story; I enjoy it because the plot flows seamlessly, there is a sense of continuity and emergency (In DA II, will the pace of the story, of intense combat, of interactions flow effortlessly?) remains.
As a player, I prefer to play DAO on the console (though I own a copy of DAO for each platform); there is a greater sense of pull during combat; the fighting is more intense. Currently, though, the mechanics for the consoles, especially the quick bar leave us, players who have a penchant for the console, out (Although I use the spell wheel copiously, I would rather have an improved Interface system for the console’s quick bar).
For the PC, I think adding the auto run button will allow instant execution of spells, the new system, you informed us about via the podcast.
To conclude: Console flexibility should be a focus as well as an auto run button and also the ability to interact on a more personal level with the environment would be ideal.
On a side note, I enjoy the fact that DAO was disseminated via differing platforms; though, the graphics are enviable on the PC, (I do hope, this time around, Dragon Age will display its splendor in full 1080p) I really like the stats of the “Blood Dragon Armor” on the Xbox platform… truly balanced… truly awesome!)
Again, awesome podcast! Thanks for keeping us fans in mind as you delve in into another chapter of Thedas, of Dragon Age, Universe.
You mentioned “Frame Narrative”; this type of storytelling is interesting. I simply hope the narrators, since Hawke’s story is told via a tenth year span and in retrospect (Frame Narrative) as that, do an awesome job. Some of the preliminary a la Freudian type of session screenshots are unappealing to me; this comment is based on the scant information/screenshots that are currently circulating. (Thus, it is my hope that these podcasts will enlighten us and provide us more enticing detailed information rather than distancing us from a story/game we truly enjoy).
Telling DA II from a third person’s point of view via narrators could be risky. (Will it detract, take the feel, the get go of the game as far as story and combat go? However, Mike, somehow, listening to your thoughts via this initial podcast, qualm some of my fears regarding this.) You also mentioned several examples of “Frame Narrative during the podcast; however, “The Notebook” (also Wuthering Heights) is truly a good example of “Frame Narrative”… a story within a story; I enjoy it because the plot flows seamlessly, there is a sense of continuity and emergency (In DA II, will the pace of the story, of intense combat, of interactions flow effortlessly?) remains.
As a player, I prefer to play DAO on the console (though I own a copy of DAO for each platform); there is a greater sense of pull during combat; the fighting is more intense. Currently, though, the mechanics for the consoles, especially the quick bar leave us, players who have a penchant for the console, out (Although I use the spell wheel copiously, I would rather have an improved Interface system for the console’s quick bar).
For the PC, I think adding the auto run button will allow instant execution of spells, the new system, you informed us about via the podcast.
To conclude: Console flexibility should be a focus as well as an auto run button and also the ability to interact on a more personal level with the environment would be ideal.
On a side note, I enjoy the fact that DAO was disseminated via differing platforms; though, the graphics are enviable on the PC, (I do hope, this time around, Dragon Age will display its splendor in full 1080p) I really like the stats of the “Blood Dragon Armor” on the Xbox platform… truly balanced… truly awesome!)
Again, awesome podcast! Thanks for keeping us fans in mind as you delve in into another chapter of Thedas, of Dragon Age, Universe.
Modifié par [User Deleted], 09 novembre 2010 - 01:35 .
#131
Posté 25 juillet 2010 - 05:25
SirFlynn
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Princess Bride,Dragon Age style nice! who's going to play Andra the Giant?
#132
Posté 25 juillet 2010 - 08:28
tugatuga17
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[quote]CaptainBlackGold wrote...
...
Now, can we just get rid of the silly mage hats? :-)
...
/quote]
OMG thank you!!! I mean no one notice??? those things on the head...what the hell???
I think the mages should use what morrigan uses on the Sacres Ashes Trailer
...
Now, can we just get rid of the silly mage hats? :-)
...
/quote]
OMG thank you!!! I mean no one notice??? those things on the head...what the hell???
I think the mages should use what morrigan uses on the Sacres Ashes Trailer
#133
Posté 25 juillet 2010 - 10:18
uberdowzen
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Seriously looking forward to DAII now that I've read the Gamespot preview and heard this. It sounds like Bioware are branching out a bit with their storytelling method and it's comforting to know that the combat is going to be similar to DAO. Now what about the toolset? 
#134
Posté 26 juillet 2010 - 03:15
Suicider_11
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I'm glad they are making combat better. I remember when my 2h warrior was running towards an enemy to hit them, then i pause and command sunder armor; it causes a few seconds delay when she's going to attack with the ability. I hope they address this/ this is a part of the combat improvement.
With the artwork, I'm going to make my final judgements about the game when the final product is out. Although initially, i like the artwork of hawke, and the new mage robe by bethany. For the Darkspawn, the ogre looks terrible/creepy in a good way, the hurlocks not much of a fan. It is too early, but i'm liking what i know so far from the artwork to the new narrative to the new plot.
;);)
With the artwork, I'm going to make my final judgements about the game when the final product is out. Although initially, i like the artwork of hawke, and the new mage robe by bethany. For the Darkspawn, the ogre looks terrible/creepy in a good way, the hurlocks not much of a fan. It is too early, but i'm liking what i know so far from the artwork to the new narrative to the new plot.
;);)
#135
Guest_Adriano87_*
Posté 26 juillet 2010 - 04:05
Guest_Adriano87_*
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so it is another hack and slash game with better dialogue system.
#136
Posté 27 juillet 2010 - 08:58
Todd23
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[quote]tugatuga17 wrote...
[quote]CaptainBlackGold wrote...
...
Now, can we just get rid of the silly mage hats? :-)
...
/quote]
OMG thank you!!! I mean no one notice??? those things on the head...what the hell???
I think the mages should use what morrigan uses on the Sacres Ashes Trailer
[/quote]Mages still need some non strength required type helmet. But they don't need to look like a cone head alien.
[quote]CaptainBlackGold wrote...
...
Now, can we just get rid of the silly mage hats? :-)
...
/quote]
OMG thank you!!! I mean no one notice??? those things on the head...what the hell???
I think the mages should use what morrigan uses on the Sacres Ashes Trailer
[/quote]Mages still need some non strength required type helmet. But they don't need to look like a cone head alien.
#137
Posté 28 juillet 2010 - 05:42
Ayleus
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uberdowzen wrote...
Seriously looking forward to DAII now that I've read the Gamespot preview and heard this. It sounds like Bioware are branching out a bit with their storytelling method and it's comforting to know that the combat is going to be similar to DAO. Now what about the toolset?
I must say...the podcast eased my mind as well on a few things. I am also curious about the toolset...although I believe we will ahve to wait a pretty good while to find out anything about it...although some announcment regarding the topic would be nice.
I was worried about this "action packed" combat I've been hearing about thinking that there might be a Mass effect 2 "effect'
, but the podcast put my mind at ease....mostly. HOWEVER, Mr. Mike, if you're not too busy....I would like to know if you are getting rid of the "hand waving" a mage has to go thru in order to cast spells. I understand making the game more responsive, but part of the tactic is knowing when to start casting the spell and how long you have to wait for the benefit.....makes you plan ahead. I would hate to think that casting time is thrown away such that my firestorm spell is just as quick as say....ah hell...ya know, that magic bullet thingy...more powerful version of your regular staff attack. Hopefully you know what I'm talking about. Other than that, combat sounds likes it's going to be tweeked for the better. Glad to hear it. Good luck bioware
#138
Posté 28 juillet 2010 - 10:53
Majin Paul
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Has it been said how often these podcasts will appear?
#139
Posté 28 juillet 2010 - 12:08
rolson00
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the pcgamer maq has done a review on DA2 and after reading that and looking at the online things i think i can say that i'm very disappointed with what i saw
it seems i've only got ME3 and fable3 to look forward to
DA:O is one of my all time favs it right up there with VTMB and ME. i've really tried to keep an open mind but after reading the review and all the online things it seems to me that the only people excited about DA2 are gameinformer
i dont think ill wast my money on this, i'll just have to see what the trialer looks like
it seems i've only got ME3 and fable3 to look forward toDA:O is one of my all time favs it right up there with VTMB and ME. i've really tried to keep an open mind but after reading the review and all the online things it seems to me that the only people excited about DA2 are gameinformer
i dont think ill wast my money on this, i'll just have to see what the trialer looks like
#140
Posté 28 juillet 2010 - 12:09
Nerys
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I feel a lot better after hearing this podcast. Maybe the art direction is going places I wouldn't have foreseen, But who knows, it could be a really awesome change. I am now very interested in Hawk's story and I can't wait to meet the new companions! What can I say, I'm sold on DA2
Thank you Victor and Mike!! Keep the podcasts coming...
PS please say we can have romances in DA2
Thank you Victor and Mike!! Keep the podcasts coming...
PS please say we can have romances in DA2
#141
Posté 28 juillet 2010 - 08:08
They call me a SpaceCowboy
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Nerys wrote...
I feel a lot better after hearing this podcast. Maybe the art direction is going places I wouldn't have foreseen, But who knows, it could be a really awesome change. I am now very interested in Hawk's story and I can't wait to meet the new companions! What can I say, I'm sold on DA2
Thank you Victor and Mike!! Keep the podcasts coming...
PS please say we can have romances in DA2
I believe romances have been confirmed by the devs. Check the 'what we KNOW' thread.
on another note. will there be more podcasts? When is the next one?
#142
Posté 29 juillet 2010 - 02:25
Bryy_Miller
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SDNcN wrote...
WilliamShatner wrote...
Well if this podcast is anything to go by female Hawke is little but an after thought.
Or its just easier to refer to a character by one gender rather than repeatedly saying him or her.
It.
#143
Posté 29 juillet 2010 - 08:16
AngryFrozenWater
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Not sure if after more than a week BW is still reading this thread. But I'll have a shot at it anyway.
Thanks for this postcast. It's cool to hear what the general approach for DA2 is.
In that postcast you talked about the fears that the community might have about the changes. Here is my fear: Forgive the comparison with ME, but this is essential. In ME1 we were promised that decidsions you made woud have impact iin ME2. That turned out to be a hollow promise and nothing more than a couple of dialog line changes, e-mails to the Normandy or at best a couple of cameos. I felt cheated by that approach. It was cheap. I hope that this is not the case in DA2 and that decisions (like the Elves/Werewolves, the Dwarven King, Alistair/Loghain, etc.) do shape the future world you are talking about more than just a dialog line.
Is it safe to assume that your DAO decisions can be imported in DA2 or is that a feature reserved for DA3 (i.e. importing DA2 in DA3)?
Thanks for this postcast. It's cool to hear what the general approach for DA2 is.
In that postcast you talked about the fears that the community might have about the changes. Here is my fear: Forgive the comparison with ME, but this is essential. In ME1 we were promised that decidsions you made woud have impact iin ME2. That turned out to be a hollow promise and nothing more than a couple of dialog line changes, e-mails to the Normandy or at best a couple of cameos. I felt cheated by that approach. It was cheap. I hope that this is not the case in DA2 and that decisions (like the Elves/Werewolves, the Dwarven King, Alistair/Loghain, etc.) do shape the future world you are talking about more than just a dialog line.
Is it safe to assume that your DAO decisions can be imported in DA2 or is that a feature reserved for DA3 (i.e. importing DA2 in DA3)?
Modifié par AngryFrozenWater, 29 juillet 2010 - 08:19 .
#144
Posté 29 juillet 2010 - 08:35
AngryFrozenWater
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Thinking about this some more... In DAO some DLCs and the expansion were not consistent with the world "created by the player character". I therefor hope that you won't be doing similar things in DA2. Examples: The Leliana and Darkspawn DLCs and the Awakening expansion all had little to do with the world the player "created". It didn't expand the DAO world and its history at all.
Modifié par AngryFrozenWater, 29 juillet 2010 - 08:38 .
#145
Guest_[User Deleted]_*
Posté 30 juillet 2010 - 12:44
Guest_[User Deleted]_*
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AngryFrozenWater wrote...
Thinking about this some more... In DAO some DLCs and the expansion were not consistent with the world "created by the player character". I therefor hope that you won't be doing similar things in DA2. Examples: The Leliana and Darkspawn DLCs and the Awakening expansion all had little to do with the world the player "created". It didn't expand the DAO world and its history at all.
Well, DAO: Awakening felt that way to me; that it was devoid of emotional interaction with our companions. Though, I welcomed, Nathaniel thoughts, but the fact that I imported my character into DAO: Awakening, enliven my play through... also, Tears in the Veil... when our PC is transported through the veil... it is a poet's moment... her haven... Ah, the pool of waters... viewing the mansion from the pool of tears (my poem) is simply peaceful, inviting.
#146
Posté 30 juillet 2010 - 01:39
AngryFrozenWater
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To me an expansion has to expand the current game. The three campaigns I mentioned do not build upon decisions of the player character. According to the podcast it seems that BioWare wants to take this route but currently they don't practice it. Hence my questions raised earlier. The Darkspawn thingy was the worst. It converted the game into a pure hack and slash. Leliana's DLC wasn't consistent with her story told in the game. And Awakening didn't honor the player's past. In one of my games Alistair ended up as an alcoholic traveling the taverns of Ferelden (according to the epilogue) and I kicked out Ogren. The secret companion was rebuilding the wardens and there was a queen and it was not me. None of that can be found in Awakening.Lilacs wrote...
AngryFrozenWater wrote...
Thinking about this some more... In DAO some DLCs and the expansion were not consistent with the world "created by the player character". I therefor hope that you won't be doing similar things in DA2. Examples: The Leliana and Darkspawn DLCs and the Awakening expansion all had little to do with the world the player "created". It didn't expand the DAO world and its history at all.
Well, DAO: Awakening felt that way to me; that it was devoid of emotional interaction with our companions. Though, I welcomed, Nathaniel thoughts, but the fact that I imported my character into DAO: Awakening, enliven my play through... also, Tears in the Veil... when our PC is transported through the veil... it is a poet's moment... her haven... Ah, the pool of waters... viewing the mansion from the pool of tears (my poem) is simply peaceful, inviting.
#147
Posté 30 juillet 2010 - 03:55
Brockololly
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rolson00 wrote...
the pcgamer maq has done a review on DA2 and after reading that and looking at the online things i think i can say that i'm very disappointed with what i saw
DA:O is one of my all time favs it right up there with VTMB and ME. i've really tried to keep an open mind but after reading the review and all the online things it seems to me that the only people excited about DA2 are gameinformer
i dont think ill wast my money on this, i'll just have to see what the trialer looks like
What specifically did PC Gamer say about DA2? I know they've got it on the cover of their most recent issue, but any details about the PC version in it?
#148
Posté 30 juillet 2010 - 05:37
Dave of Canada
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AngryFrozenWater wrote...
To me an expansion has to expand the current game. The three campaigns I mentioned do not build upon decisions of the player character.
Bioware has the bad habit of calling DLC "expanson packs", look at the recently announced Liara DLC or Overlord DLC for Mass Effect. Both were labeled expansion packs while not adding much to the game (although I have no time machine to see what the Liara DLC adds, I don't expect much).
#149
Posté 30 juillet 2010 - 02:59
Lintanis
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Majin Paul wrote...
Has it been said how often these podcasts will appear?
Would not be surprised if we get one a month
#150
Posté 31 juillet 2010 - 06:55
Todd23
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No. It's because when you go from listening to the podcast to wondering when the next one is, it's a hype drop that'll make you think negatively.Lintanis wrote...
Majin Paul wrote...
Has it been said how often these podcasts will appear?
Would not be surprised if we get one a month
