Gamers who enjoy RPGs are bound to be familiar with "Dragon Age: Origins," released in 2009, and "Dragon Age II" which came out in 2011. Now, after a long wait, the third installment to the franchise is almost ready to be released – "Dragon Age: Inquisition" will finally come out this Nov. 18.
The game, which will be available for Windows PC, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation 4, will have many additional features, including: a larger game environment, although still in the fictional continent of Thedas; playable Qunari race in addition to the human, dwarf, and elf options; the return of the tactical view; and better customization. Also, player decisions will have repercussions to the story, and gameplay is more open-ended than its predecessors. And, of course, there is Skyhold.
In a recent interview published in the game's official blog, producer Cameron Lee explained what Skyhold is. He said, "Skyhold is a huge fortress and the seat of your power as the leader of the Inquisition. From there, you decide the fate of nations, direct your agents throughout Thedas, pass judgment on your enemies, and decide how you will personally take action against the Elder One."
Skyhold is now the Inquisition's headquarters, having moved from the former games' village of Haven. According to Lee, the place has a garden for growing potions, a throne room, a dungeon, rooms for major characters, a training ground, a kitchen, a library, a forge, a vault, and much more. The castle can be customized, and it also evolves (in terms of décor) as the game progresses. Items for the castle can be collected during explorations, by finishing quests, or buying from traders and merchants.
Players are free to go back to Skyhold as often as they wish and explore the area, and even prepare for their next battle. It is where a gamer can stock up on supplies, prepare weapons and armor, and discuss strategies at the war table with the three primary advisors, namely Josephine (politics), Cullen (military warfare), and Leilana (espionage).
"Dragon Age: Inquisition" garnered 25 awards at the recent E3 2014, including Game Critic's Best RPG Award.
