Game Theory Well done Bioware, you've obviously resisted any Borg-like assimilation into EA and have listened closely to the criticisms of Dragon Age II and its claustrophobic narrative. Suddenly, I’m feeling good about starting my epic RPG battle with rebellious mages and old gods. I’m in this game for the long haul.

Be warned, any newcomers to the Dragon Age franchise, the lore can be complex but, truth be told, now’s a great time to jump in.

Going green...

The land of Thedas has seen better days. The rebellion of The Mages, too long controlled by the power of The Templars, has led to the Chantry (think: Catholic Church) being shaken to its core. This conflict results in rifts between the supernatural world of the Fade and the Physical world.

I wake up disorientated and, after being interrogated, I am recruited by the Chantry. I chose to be a suitably buff, oversized and deeply tanned dagger-juggling Qunari Rogue. Yes, I’m playing a female character – one of the many strong female characters that appear during this narrative (bravo Bioware).

Qunari Rogue selfie

In my new role as the Inquisitor, I need to get on the job of closing the rifts and bring order to the land with my trusty band of outcasts. It’s satisfying to come across newcomers and familiar characters, whose personal traits, add conflict and diversity to my company.

Dragon Age II felt rushed and I’m impressed that Bioware has seen fit to give this title the time and effort the franchise deserves. This attention to detail shows and the narrative just gets stronger and stronger as the game progresses. The handsome art deco card backs in the character creation menu are a treat for the eye and overall the game feels solid and polished from the beginning.

Your fate in the cards?

This is a beautiful game. It’s a shame that main interface doesn’t follow this art deco theme throughout, though.

The introduction soon gives away to a satisfying cycle of exploration (or fast travel) and character development. As a group we regain control of the lands between our main base and the various regions around Ferelden (dirty England) and Orlais (posh France). As we secure these different areas, my power and influence grow.