The latest installment in the Dragon Age franchise, Dragon Age: Veilguard, has delivered on many expectations. Yet a significant player base feels that the character companions have been underwhelming.
Players who expected rich backstories and a seamless integration with their protagonists are left feeling that Veilguard allies have reduced depth – primarily serving as supporting characters rather than dynamic partners.
This sentiment has led many fans to voice concerns, requesting a shift away from the “third-wheel” feel to a more immersive companion experience.
Companion Roles: What’s Missing?
In Dragon Age: Veilguard, players team up with diverse companions who assist in battles, offer unique abilities, and respond to certain story elements. However, for many, the current companion roles feel limited. Rather than being integral to the storyline or adding significant personal arcs, companions like Neve, Davrin, and Emmrich are seen as extensions of the player’s combat strategy, providing tactical support but lacking meaningful narrative agency.
Fans have highlighted that, unlike previous Dragon Age games, Veilguard’s companions rarely impact key plot moments in a lasting way. And their arcs often lack the dramatic, emotionally charged developments that earlier games in the series delivered.
Limited Influence on Story Progression
Beyond their combat roles, players are frustrated that companions often lack the ability to shape the narrative. In previous Dragon Age titles, choices involving companions could significantly alter the game’s storyline, offering emotional stakes and personal growth opportunities.
By comparison, Veilguard’s companions are largely reactive, with few situations where their presence or input changes the trajectory of events. Fans argue that the series’ trademark depth in character-driven storytelling has been sacrificed in favor of a streamlined, action-heavy approach that leaves companions feeling like mere tactical assets instead of true comrades.
Desire for Deeper Personal Connections
Longtime fans of the series appreciate Dragon Age games not only for their combat mechanics but for the complex relationships they can build with allies. Some players feel that Veilguard’s approach to character development is shallow, with interactions being limited to specific scripted moments rather than organic, evolving relationships.
This has led many to call on BioWare to provide more dialogue options, personal quests, and moments of conflict or camaraderie to flesh out the companion experience and deepen the bond players have with their team.
Will BioWare Listen to Fan Feedback?
With growing feedback from the community, fans hope BioWare will consider updates or patches to address these concerns. Some have even suggested expanding companion storylines through downloadable content (DLC), allowing players to experience more meaningful character arcs and make choices that genuinely impact their allies.
