Getting Started & Game Basics
Welcome to Dragon Age: Inquisition! This section provides essential information for new players to navigate the initial stages of the game. From understanding the fundamental mechanics of combat and exploration to managing your inventory and interacting with the world, these basics will set you on the right path. Get ready to forge your legend as the Inquisitor and shape the destiny of Thedas.
Dragon Age: Inquisition is a sprawling epic that blends action-RPG combat with deep narrative choices and strategic management. As the Inquisitor, you are tasked with closing a massive tear in the sky known as the Breach and restoring order to a world on the brink of chaos. This guide will cover the core gameplay loops, including character creation, party management, combat, exploration, the crucial War Table system, and the vital crafting mechanics, ensuring you have a solid foundation for your adventure.
Character Creation
Your journey begins with creating your Inquisitor. You'll choose your race (Human, Elf, Dwarf, Qunari), gender, class (Warrior, Rogue, Mage), and customize their appearance. Your race and class will influence dialogue options and starting abilities.
Party Management
You'll assemble a party of up to four characters, including your Inquisitor and up to three companions. You can switch between party members during combat and issue commands using the Tactical Camera. Ensuring a balanced party with diverse skills is key to overcoming challenges.
Combat
Combat is real-time with the option to pause and enter the Tactical Camera for strategic control. Each character has unique abilities tied to their class. Mastering ability usage, cooldowns, and positioning is vital.
- Warrior: Frontline combatants, good at taking and dealing damage.
- Rogue: Agile damage dealers, excelling at critical hits and stealth.
- Mage: Spellcasters with a wide array of offensive and defensive magic.
Exploration
The world of Thedas is vast, with large, open zones to explore. You'll discover new quests, hidden locations, valuable resources, and lore entries. Mounts can be acquired to traverse these areas more quickly.
The War Table
The War Table is your central hub for managing the Inquisition's efforts. You'll send agents on missions to gain influence, unlock new areas, and gather resources. These missions take real-world time to complete, so plan your strategy wisely.
Crafting and Gear
Gathering crafting materials is essential for creating and upgrading weapons and armor. Visit merchants and your quartermaster at Skyhold to manage your inventory and equip your party with the best gear. Crafting allows you to create powerful items with specific stats and bonuses, often superior to found loot.
Dialogue and Choices
Your dialogue choices have consequences, affecting companion approval, quest outcomes, and the overall narrative. Building relationships with your companions is important for their loyalty and effectiveness.