In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, players can align with one of six factions during character creation, which significantly influences Rook’s narrative journey. Several factions, including familiar groups from the Dragon Age universe like the Grey Wardens and Antivan Crows, return to play a crucial role. Others, derived from supplementary media such as novels and comics, are making their gaming debut, enriching Rook’s perspective in ways previous protagonists like the Herald of Andraste and the Champion of Kirkwall may not have experienced.
Selecting a faction alters the initial part of the game, providing benefits such as early introduction to specific companions and advantages for a particular class specialization. It’s wise to choose a faction that complements one of the three available classes. Importantly, choosing a faction doesn’t restrict access to features; instead, it offers an early advantage, which could ease the process of reputation building, leveling up, or even courting allies who share similar values.
Which Faction to Choose First & Why in Dragon Age: The Veilguard
Each Class Aligns With a Faction
Every faction brings specific combat bonuses, offers a class specialization, and highlights particular companions. These elements are critical as you navigate the challenges present in Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Additionally, Rook’s last name changes based on the faction chosen, which dedicated fans may adopt when discussing the game, reflecting a tradition seen in character creation from Dragon Age: Inquisition. Faction ideologies and objectives also play a significant role; you might want to ally with one based on shared values or steer clear of those with contrasting beliefs.
There is an additional companion, Lace Harding, returning from Dragon Age: Inquisition. She operates independently of Rook’s chosen faction. For a deeper dive, check out YouTuber NorZZa, who elaborates on companion dynamics and their connections to the game’s factions in the embedded video.
Grey Wardens Faction Powers
The Grey Wardens have been a central force since the inaugural game, Dragon Age: Origins. This faction is wholly committed to battling Darkspawn, often through contentious means. While Grey Wardens welcome all classes, there’s a notable emphasis on Warriors excelling in close combat. In the story, Rook defied a direct order that spared numerous lives, marking him as a hero to many yet earning him suspicion from the higher-ups.
|
Key Stats |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Surname: |
Thorne |
No direct ties to other known characters |
|
Traits: |
|
|
|
Specialization: |
Champion Warrior |
Acts as a close-range tank focused on shielding allies |
|
Companion: |
Darvin |
Dalish Elf Warrior known for wielding a sword and shield, accompanied by a griffon familiar |
Antivan Crows Faction Powers
The Antivan Crows are a feared guild of assassins who prioritize stealth and ambush tactics over fair play. Most members are Rogues wielding blades, though some Mages willing to engage in close combat are also prevalent. Upon selecting this faction, Rook embraces a ruthless approach for a greater cause, harboring particular animosity towards the Antaam in Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
|
Key Stats |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Surname: |
De Riva |
This surname has appeared in Dragon Age related media, possibly indicating a familial or associative tie |
|
Traits: |
|
|
|
Specialization: |
|
|
|
Companion: |
Lucanis |
Human Rogue adept at stealth, striking before being detected |
Veil Jumpers Faction Powers
The Veil Jumpers are dedicated to unraveling the mysterious magic threatening Arlathan Forest. Given the perilous environment, they predominantly feature Rogue archers who stay hidden. Rook previously uncovered a pivotal map during a quest but lost it while saving a comrade. Recovering this map may become a critical plot point in Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
|
Key Stats |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Surname: |
Aldwir |
No specific ties to other characters from previous games |
|
Traits: |
|
|
|
Specialization: |
Veil Ranger Rogue |
Engages enemies exclusively with a bow from a distance |
|
Companion: |
Bellara |
Elf Mage specializing in halting foes and unleashing electric attacks |
Mourn Watch Faction Powers
The Mourn Watch comprises necromancers from Nevarra, a practice deemed controversial within the Thedas world. Cassandra from Dragon Age: Inquisition expressed distaste for necromancy, and discussing it could tarnish her romantic interest. The Mourn Watch predominantly favors Mages but also enlists dark-embracing Warriors.
|
Key Stats |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Surname: |
Ingellvar |
No specific ties to any past character |
|
Traits: |
|
|
|
Specialization: |
|
|
|
Companion: |
Emmerich |
Human Mage capable of delayed damage and proficient in healing skills |
Lords of Fortune Faction Powers
The Lords of Fortune are raiders adept at looting ruins and archaeological sites. They typically rely on robust Warriors to lead the charge while employing Rogues to navigate specific threats. Rook is currently evading local authorities after killing a Rivaini noble to avert catastrophe during Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
|
Key Stats |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Surname: |
Laidir |
No direct relation to any previous characters |
|
Traits: |
|
|
|
Specialization: |
|
|
|
Companion: |
Taash |
Qunari Warrior who dual-wields axes and has the ability to incinerate foes |
Shadow Dragons Faction Powers
The Shadow Dragons represent the final faction choice in Dragon Age: The Veilguard. They act as a rebel group striving to dismantle oppressive powers in Tevinter. Their ranks are particularly favorable to Mages wielding powerful magic. Rook finds himself under pursuit by the Venatori, heightening the tension of his circumstances.
|
Key Stats |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Surname: |
Mercar |
No verified ties to characters from previous titles |
|
Traits: |
|
|
|
Specialization: |
Evoker Mage |
Delivers formidable ice, lightning, and fire attacks |
|
Companion: |
Neve |
Human Mage who predominantly utilizes ice spells to either hinder enemies or heal allies. |
Making a choice among these factions may lead to varied advantages and challenges, yet it’s difficult to make a completely “wrong” decision. Ultimately, the diversity of factions provides a reason to revisit Dragon Age: The Veilguard for multiple playthroughs.
Video Credit: NorZZa/YouTube