Small update:- Sub-header: Dragon Age 2 is a first class RPG, but not quite as good as its superb predecessor. This has multiple reasons.
-EA did not let them use their own screenshots for the article without
explicit approval, even though they were given the final version. The
reviewer calls this "inexplicable". Hence, the article uses a few stock screenshots and
generally shows nothing even remotely new.
- If you choose not to import and use one of the 3 predefined "lore backgrounds" instead, the
backstory is explained in a short cutscene of the final moments
(Landsmeet+Archdemon fight) of DA:O.
- cameos: Alistair is available for an "inconsequential" 1-2 minute long chat if you imported the right DA:O ending
- the prologue is described the same way as the demo
-quest samples: break into a house at night to retrieve the will of
Hawke's father, save a woman from her abusive husband, hunt an
Abomination, and decide whether to turn in a dude using blood magic to
impress his girlfriend
- Hawke has up to 9 companions, who
generally feel alive and responsive. However, they have consistently
less depth and weaker characterization than the cast in Origins. The
only exception is Varric, whose frequent banter with Cassandra provides
much of the game's tension and humour. He's described as "a d*mn cool
sock" (don't ask)
- Main Quest takes 12-15 hours, you can double that number "if you take your time and explore everything the game has to offer".
-The game does not feel long or epic, and the central conflict (mages
vs. chantry) is not as dramatic as the reviewer would have liked. But
although it doesn't have anything comparable to the Battle of Ostagar or
the final attack on Denerim, it still has some very tactical boss
fights.
- ugly ("texture mud") and low-polygon graphics, especially in the areas outside of Kirkwall.
Generally feeling of emptiness/lack of NPCs. Constant encounters with
"clonecellars" and "clonecaves", which can be a huge source of
frustration. However, beautiful spell effects and good character models
that can graphically compete with ME2.
- combat is generally tactical, though frequently unbalanced. The lack of an iso-style camera
was a huge problem for the reviewer.
- The number of talents is huge. The game offers class specific weapons and some crafting options.
However, overall you generally have a small selection. (they don't
expand on this)
- The ending is described as open ended and unresolved .
- final rating is 87%. "Although the fans' fears have partially come true, this is still a magnificent RPG"
Full score
Graphic:7/10
+ detailed characters
+great animations+nice spell effects
-surroundings have little polygons and details
-textures often seem "muddy"
Sound:9/10
+dynamic orchestra music
+suiting fighting sounds
+good English voice actors
-not all parts are cast well in German
Balance:9/10
+four difficulties
+easy access
+fight are always fair
+talents and classes are well balanced
-difficulty can change during the campaign
Atmosphere:9/10
+fantastic cutscenes and dialogs
+dark brutal fantasy world
-recycled areas
-often lifeless landscapes
Controls:8/10
+free saving
+easy to use UI
-hard aiming due to no tactical view
-needlessly complicated menu
Content:8/10
+long campaign
+high replayability
+many main and side quests
-few areas
-restricted on being human
Story/Quests:9/10
+very thrilling, varied quests
+nice surprises
+often different solutions
-story lacks epicness
-open ended
Fighting system:10/10
+tactical but not to complex
+many specialisations possible
+interesting boss battles
+many different talent trees
Character development:9/10
+partly distinctive, multi layered NPC companions
+fast and dynamic
+many options during dialog
-it is seldom necessary to use companions in dialog
Items:9/10
+countless spells and talent
+class specific weapons and armor
+crafting
-little choice overall
Modifié par GreenSoda, 26 février 2011 - 08:39 .
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