Mounts

Traversing the vast and often dangerous landscapes of Thedas can be a daunting task on foot. Thankfully, the Inquisition provides access to several mounts, allowing you to cover ground quickly and efficiently. While mounts don't offer combat advantages, they are invaluable for exploration, reaching distant objectives, and simply enjoying the scenery.

Acquiring Your First Mount

Your journey to equestrian mastery begins early in the game. Follow these steps to unlock your first steed:

Complete "The Threat Remains": This is a main story quest that concludes in the Hinterlands.
Return to Haven: After completing "The Threat Remains," return to your base of operations.
Speak with Dennet: Locate Dennet, the Master of Horses, in the stables area of Haven. He will have a new quest available.
Accept "Master of Horses": Dennet will offer you this quest, which serves as your introduction to mounts.
Complete "Master of Horses": This quest involves a simple task of rounding up some wild horses in the Hinterlands. Follow the quest markers to locate and "collect" the horses by approaching them.
Claim Your First Mount: Upon completing "Master of Horses" and reporting back to Dennet, you will be granted your first mount, typically a "Ferelden Forder."

Mount Types and Acquisition

Dragon Age: Inquisition features three primary categories of mounts: Horses, Dracolisks, and Harts. Each category offers a range of aesthetic variations, some of which are unlocked through specific quests, purchases, or War Table operations.

Horses

Horses are the most common and easily accessible mounts. They are generally acquired through Dennet's quests or purchased from his stable.

Ferelden Forder: Your first mount, obtained by completing the "Master of Horses" quest.
Free-Roamer: Can be purchased from Dennet's stable after completing "Master of Horses."
Orlesian Courser: Often available for purchase from Dennet's stable later in the game or unlocked via specific War Table operations.
Royal Ranger: A more regal horse, typically unlocked through War Table operations focused on Orlesian influence or specific merchant purchases.
Tirashan: A unique horse breed, sometimes found as a reward for completing certain side quests in the Western Approach or Emprise du Lion.

Dracolisks

These reptilian mounts offer a more exotic and intimidating presence. Dracolisks are generally acquired through War Table operations or by purchasing them from specific merchants.

Greater Dracolisk: The standard Dracolisk mount, often unlocked via a War Table operation titled "Acquire a Dracolisk" or similar.
Talon Dracolisk: A variant with distinct markings, typically obtained through a War Table operation or a high-tier merchant in Val Royeaux.
Abyssal Dracolisk: A rare and impressive Dracolisk, sometimes a reward for completing challenging quests or a very expensive purchase from a specialized vendor.

Harts

Harts are majestic deer-like creatures that provide a unique aesthetic. These mounts are usually unlocked through specific War Table operations or by finding them in the wild during certain quests.

Wild Hart: The most common Hart, often unlocked via a War Table operation focused on exploring new territories or a reward for completing a nature-themed quest.
Red Hart: A striking variant with reddish fur, typically acquired through a War Table operation or a rare drop from certain creatures in the Emerald Graves.
Hallin's Flourish: A truly magnificent Hart, often a reward for completing a complex side quest chain or a very rare War Table operation outcome.

Mount Management and Usage

Once you've acquired mounts, managing them is straightforward:

Changing Mounts: You can change your active mount at any stable in Haven or Skyhold. Simply interact with the stable master and select your desired steed.
Summoning Your Mount: While in an explorable area, you can summon your mount by pressing the designated "Mount" key/button (default 'Z' on PC, Down on D-Pad for consoles).
Dismounting: To dismount, press the same "Mount" key/button again. You will automatically dismount if you enter combat, interact with an object, or enter a restricted area.
Mount Speed: All mounts travel at the same speed, so choose the one you find most aesthetically pleasing!
Mount Limitations: You cannot use abilities, attack, or collect resources while mounted. Your companions will also dismount and follow you on foot when you summon your mount.

Tips for Mount Enthusiasts

Prioritize Dennet's Quests: Completing "Master of Horses" early will significantly speed up your exploration of the Hinterlands and beyond.
Check the War Table Regularly: Many unique and exotic mounts are unlocked through War Table operations. Keep an eye out for operations that mention "mounts," "livestock," or "exploration."
Explore Thoroughly: Some mounts are rewards for completing specific side quests or discovering hidden areas. Don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path!
Save Your Gold: While many mounts are free, some of the more exotic ones can be quite expensive. If you have a particular mount in mind, start saving your coin early.
Enjoy the View: Mounts are not just for utility; they add to the immersion and beauty of Thedas. Take a moment to appreciate the landscapes from horseback!