BioWare has unveiled new insights into the highly anticipated fantasy RPG, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, scheduled for release on October 31. Game Director Corinne Busche highlighted the intricate nature of the game’s romantic encounters, stating, "We really did want to keep [the companions] relatable, more grounded. Some of them are quite sensual, some are more physical, some are more romantic, some are more spicy."
Busche hinted at the darker side of intimacy within the game, suggesting players might encounter perilous situations with companions. "You may or may not wake up in a coffin," she joked, noting the potential for dramatic twists reminiscent of the storytelling in Baldur’s Gate 3.
The game promises to explore diverse romance options beyond the main seven characters, with art director Matt Rhodes teasing the possibility of engaging with other NPCs, including a cheeky response about a skeleton character: "I would say ‘not that skeleton,’ but we’re not saying ‘no skeletons.’"
Romantic choices will also influence gameplay mechanics, as Busche shared her own experience of romancing Emmrich and how it enhanced combat interactions. "As I’m synergizing with him [in combat]… just having him refer to me as ‘my dear’ on the battlefield fills me with joy every time," she remarked.
Additionally, the inclusion of Lace Harding, a character beloved from Dragon Age: Inquisition, was explained as a response to player demand, reinforcing the series’ commitment to character continuity.
The game will feature seven romanceable companion characters:
- Davrin, a charming Grey Warden
- Taash, a thrill-seeker with ties to the Lords of Fortune
- Lace Harding, returning from Inquisition
- Lucanis Dellamorte, an assassin with the House of Crows
- Bellara Lutare, a romantic Veil-jumper
- Emmrich Volkarin, a necromancer with a skeletal servant
- Neve Gallus, a powerful Tevinter mage and member of the Shadow Dragons
When asked about the most passionate romance scene, Busche revealed, "I’d have to say Taash… I was hollering when I saw the finished version of that cinematic."
Dragon Age: The Veilguard will be available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox Series X|S on October 31. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting installment from BioWare.
