Again though, it was just an account I created, I didn't think or know of any connection to the game whatsoever. I didn't even know how to connect it to the game.
On console anyway, in the options for DA:O and DA2, there should be a selection box (check mark or empty) to upload analytics data to Bioware's server. Check that box. It's been a long time since I played them, but I think that's how it starts. Afterwards, there was always a scrolling message at the bottom of the screen saying whether login with your account was successful, identified by the email address you sign up with. Otherwise, it may require you to link your gamer accounts to your Origin/BioWare account on this website or a link to EA's main site. After that, everything should update automatically. You should be able to get to that process if you click in to register one of your console games.
Hopefully, with it being a much bigger deal now, DA:I will have a prominent prompt to sign in, link, or create an account right early on so everybody has a clear understanding about it. That's one bit of important information we don't have yet. :-/
Edit: If it doesn't work from inside the old games (I've had problems with their automatic login last I played), linking your accounts via the website should still work. Good luck
I hadn't thought about how it could be an issue in a while.