Capcom began its Online Program at Tokyo Game Show 2023 with new gameplay and details for Dragon’s Dogma 2. Director Hideaki Itsuno talked about the four starting Vocations and various features players could expect from the action RPG. There are two regions to explore: Vermind, ruled by Arisen, who slayed the Dragon, and Battahl, a city built on ancient ruins and ruled by Beastmen.
There are four Vocations at the beginning, which you can change at any time. The Fighter has a one-handed sword and shield, focusing on melee combat. The Archer is about ranged attacks, especially against flying enemies with a bow and arrow. They can use exploding and blinding arrows, with third-person aiming supported.
The Mage is about long-range magic but can also heal and support allies. Casting more advanced spells requires longer incantations. Finally, there’s the Thief, who uses a dagger to strike at enemies and moves away after attacks using Swift Step.
There are also Advanced Vocations, like Mystic Spearhand, who wields a duospear for close-range combat and magic at long range. The Magick Archer also returns and can cast magical arrows, provide healing and support, and a skill that deals damage in a wide area while sacrificing HP.
During combat, you can use exploding barrels to destroy parts of the environment, unleashing a flood of water at a foe. Sometimes, you’re accompanied by other inhabitants along with Pawns. NPCs may call out with quests, and you might receive some from those you save. Pawns with quest knowledge may also guide you, and catch you if you fall from great heights.
When completing quests, you can ride oxcarts to major locations and close your eyes to make time pass faster. However, you might get attacked en route, so beware. The environment changes constantly, with nighttime being especially dangerous. You have no light and can’t see your feet, while monsters only present at night can appear. A Camping Kit is good for spending the night and recovering health.
Dragon’s Dogma 2 doesn’t have a release date, but it’s coming to Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC. Stay tuned for more details in the meantime.