From its announcement in December 2018 to rumored launch later this year, it’s been a long road for Dragon Age: The Veilguard (formerly known as Dragon Age: Dreadwolf). Speaking to IGN, BioWare GM Gary McKay explained the name change.
Reiterating that Solas is “still very much a part of the story,” The Veilguard reflects the “really deep and compelling group of companions” players will encounter. “One thing that’s important to remind fans is that every Dragon Age game is a new and different experience, and this game, more so than ever, is about you and your companions – a group that you must rally to fight by your side.
“We can’t wait for players to meet, connect and form their own personal relationships with the unique companions that make up The Veilguard. That’s the spirit of this game, of this story. Choosing who will join you on your adventure, fight alongside you, and be there by your side in the end.”
McKay also clarifies that the change wasn’t due to focus testing, but to have a title that’s “authentic” to the companions. “We actually think sticking with Dreadwolf would have been the safer choice – ‘Dread Wolf’ is a cool name after all! It was most important for us to have a title that was authentic to the companions that are the heart of this adventure we’ve created. We’ve worked throughout development to create really incredible backstories for each companion that intersect with the main narrative in meaningful ways.”
Why not simply call it Dragon Age 4? “Every game in the series tells its own unique story, and the title is an important element to help set the stage for the next standalone adventure inclusive of its own hero, companions, narrative arc, villain, setting, etc.” As such, the naming isn’t so out of place, considering Dragon Age: Origins and Dragon Age: Inquisition.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard reportedly launches this year, though its platforms have yet to be announced. A 15-minute showcase is coming on June 11th to demonstrate the opening section and hopefully delve deeper into combat. McKay has confirmed that players can take two companions into battles, issue orders and use an ability wheel for powerful combinations. Stay tuned for more details in the coming days.