Dragon Age Sequel Hints What You May Have Missed
The Dragon Age franchise has captivated players for over a decade with its rich lore, compelling characters, and morally gray choices. The anticipation for Dragon Age 4 (now officially titled Dragon Age: Dreadwolf) is palpable, but even if, for some unforeseen reason, we never get another installment, it's worth delving into the narrative threads and sequel hints woven throughout the existing games. These clues provide a fascinating glimpse into what BioWare had in mind for the future of Thedas, and understanding them enhances our appreciation for the series' intricate world-building. This article will serve as a comprehensive summary of these hints, exploring the overarching narrative, key characters, and potential conflicts that were being set up for future games. Let's embark on a journey through the Dragon Age universe, piecing together the puzzle of what might have been, and what still could be, in the world of Thedas.
The Dread Wolf and the Elven Gods
One of the most significant overarching narratives in the Dragon Age series revolves around Solas, the Dread Wolf. Introduced as a seemingly wise and supportive companion in Dragon Age: Inquisition, Solas's true identity is revealed in the game's Trespasser DLC. He is, in fact, Fen'Harel, an ancient elven god who tricked the other gods and brought down the elven empire of Arlathan. This revelation has massive implications for the future of Thedas, as Solas's motivations and plans are shrouded in mystery, and understanding his intentions becomes the central mystery of the new game.
Solas's actions in Trespasser, destroying the Orb of Destruction and setting his plans in motion, serve as a major catalyst for future events. His primary goal is to tear down the Veil, the barrier separating the physical world from the Fade, in order to restore the ancient elven world. However, this act would have catastrophic consequences for the current world, potentially destroying the lives of many humans, dwarves, and even elves who have adapted to the current state of Thedas. His complex and conflicting motivations make him a compelling antagonist, as he believes he is acting in the best interests of his people, even if it means causing immense suffering to others.
Furthermore, the lore surrounding the other elven gods, known as the Evanuris, plays a crucial role in understanding Solas's motivations and the potential conflicts in future games. The Evanuris were powerful beings who ruled the elven empire, but they were also flawed and tyrannical. Solas, as Fen'Harel, led a rebellion against them, ultimately imprisoning them in the Fade. The question of whether these gods will return, and what their intentions might be, is a major point of speculation and a likely plot point in Dragon Age: Dreadwolf. Understanding the history of the Evanuris and their relationship with Solas is essential for grasping the full scope of the conflict that is brewing in Thedas.
The Tevinter Imperium and Blood Magic
Tevinter Imperium, a nation in northern Thedas ruled by mages, has always been a significant player in the Dragon Age universe. However, recent games have hinted at a more prominent role for Tevinter in future conflicts. The Imperium's unique social structure, where mages hold significant political power, and its historical use of blood magic make it a fascinating and dangerous faction.
One of the key plot threads related to Tevinter is the use of blood magic. Blood magic, a powerful and corrupting form of magic, is forbidden in most parts of Thedas, but it is practiced openly in Tevinter. The consequences of blood magic and its potential to corrupt individuals and entire societies have been explored throughout the series, and it is likely that this theme will continue to be relevant in future installments. The ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of blood magic and the potential for its abuse create compelling narrative opportunities.
Furthermore, the political landscape of Tevinter is ripe with intrigue and conflict. The Imperium is ruled by an Archon, a powerful mage who holds absolute authority. However, various factions within Tevinter are vying for power, creating a complex web of alliances and betrayals. This political instability, combined with the threat of external forces, such as the Qunari and the growing power of Solas, makes Tevinter a volatile and dangerous place. The interactions between the Tevinter government and other factions will be a focus of the game.
The Qunari Threat
The Qunari, a powerful and militaristic race with a distinct culture and philosophy, pose a constant threat to the nations of Thedas. Their rigid adherence to the Qun, a philosophical and religious code, and their desire to conquer and convert the world to their way of life make them formidable adversaries.
The Qunari have been a recurring presence in the Dragon Age series, and their interactions with other nations have often resulted in conflict. The Qunari invasion of Kirkwall in Dragon Age II and their ongoing presence in the north of Thedas demonstrate their ambition and military strength. Understanding their culture, beliefs, and military capabilities is crucial for comprehending the challenges facing Thedas.
In addition to their military threat, the Qunari also represent a significant ideological challenge to the rest of Thedas. The Qun's emphasis on order, discipline, and conformity clashes with the more individualistic and diverse cultures of other nations. This ideological conflict has the potential to create internal divisions within Thedas, as some individuals may be drawn to the Qun's promise of stability and order, while others will resist its oppressive nature. These are the potential moral and political quagmires the player has to consider going forward.
The Grey Wardens and the Blight
The Grey Wardens, an ancient order of warriors dedicated to fighting the Blight and the Darkspawn, have been central to the Dragon Age narrative since the first game. Their unique ability to sense and combat the Darkspawn, and their willingness to make difficult choices for the greater good, have made them both respected and feared.
The Blight, a recurring cataclysmic event caused by the emergence of the Darkspawn and the Archdemon, has threatened Thedas multiple times throughout history. The Grey Wardens are the first line of defense against the Blight, and their sacrifices have saved the world countless times. However, the Blight is a constant threat, and the possibility of another Blight remains a looming danger.
Recent games have also explored the moral complexities of the Grey Wardens and the methods they employ to fight the Darkspawn. Their use of Darkspawn blood to gain their abilities, and the potential for corruption and madness that comes with it, raises difficult ethical questions. The future of the Grey Wardens, and their role in the conflicts to come, is an important aspect of the Dragon Age lore.
The Future of Thedas
Even if we were to never receive another Dragon Age game, the existing games have provided a wealth of lore, compelling characters, and intriguing plot threads that offer a glimpse into the potential future of Thedas. The looming threat of Solas and his plans to tear down the Veil, the complex political landscape of Tevinter, the ongoing threat of the Qunari, and the constant danger of the Blight all contribute to a rich and dynamic world with endless possibilities for future stories.
Dragon Age: Dreadwolf promises to delve deeper into these conflicts and explore new aspects of the Dragon Age universe. The game's setting in Tevinter, the return of familiar characters, and the focus on Solas as the primary antagonist all suggest that the future of Thedas will be filled with conflict, intrigue, and difficult choices. The hints and foreshadowing throughout the previous games have set the stage for an epic and compelling narrative, and fans eagerly await the opportunity to experience the next chapter in the Dragon Age saga. The future of Thedas is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the story is far from over. This is one fantasy world that RPG fans will love for years to come.
