Hey everyone- I do want to make a quick correction- as of right now the option that I was talking about, which gives a 'you chose X path', is NOT actually able to be turned off! Or at least when I tried now, I couldn't figure it out. RIP.
Damn, I wasn't planning on disabling them but I can definitely see how having the game spell out the impact of a choice could remove the wonder of discovery for some people. I imagine patching in that option could be pretty easy, though, so hopefully we see them include that in a post-release patch.
I was watching a gameplay where Harding was clearly anxious around Rook and the subject of her new powers. And then the tooltip pops up and says "HARDING IS FEELING ANXIOUS ABOUT HER NEW POWERS" nooo, really...why is it necessary to spell it out?!
Saddly I can't feel like i enjoyed this game as much as past games. It felt like Disney's take on dragon age something weird it felt off. However I do enjoy the fact that you enjoyed it, my opinion is simply personal.
@@garycannon4644 considering most of them have been yapping about the series "going woke" when the original games gave us bisexual romance options in 2009 (( when queer folks were still HIGHLY stigmatised and seen as gross by the majority )) says no, they haven't lived and breathed the games so much as stuck their head in the metaphorical sand
@garycannon4644 there is an extreme heavy difference between a fan critiquing a company and a Twitter gooner who is upset about trans scars and the fact they can't bust to a fiction character.
"Veilguard isn't perfect, but that doesn't change the fact that I still love it." I think this will be the general consensus for us fans who watch Caitie's channel. Like we all know that we're going to play this game because of the lore and story and the emotions that this franchise has made us feel. It won't be a game for everyone, but from Caitie's review I feel like this game was made for us in mind and I'm so thankful that there's still a small community of the Dragon Age who will definitely enjoy the game.
For real. I’ve been trying to say this on those ‘review’ channels who just post reactive things to get views. I’d take the reviews of channels dedicated to BioWare/dragon age over channels who’ve probably played the game once and decided to join the hate bandwagon.
Honestly, I'd consider it a mantra of the franchise for better or worse. I'm always jumping in to a new DA game not with the expectation of it being the same, but with the expectation of it trying something different.
"I know Veilguard isn't perfect, but it was perfect for me." This is so touching, Ghil, thanks for sharing your experience with the game. I'm even more excited to get my hands on it and enjoy your future lore analysis. Edit: One aspect I'm curious about is how necessary the approval clarification messages are (e.g. "Varric noticed you prefer action", etc). I kinda wanna turn them off and let character behavior inform the impression of how they feel. Would I miss out on critical context by doing so?
@@sonnenblumefrau2048 Essentially paid review or especially biased (favorably so) towards a certain product. Seems apt in this case, given that early reviews towards this game is essentially a case of access journalism.
@@Goony1246 Are you just going around and commenting negative things on all DAV videos? Did you actually listen to what she had to say, and more importantly, HOW she said it? There is no chance, especially if you follow and are a fan of this channel, that you'd be questioning her dedication and honest emotions in this video.
So I am an older gamer. I having played tt rpgs & video games since the 80s. I know exactly what you mean about Dragon Age having your number and helping you through things in a way other games don't. Thank you for all your hard work.
My prediction *POSSIBLE SPOILER* U will need to find all 6 solas memories (that leaked from achievement list) Unless they are mandatory to collect as a story progression (I dont think they are from multiple reasons) I bet that they are equivalent of codex from trespasser
Your closing statement made me cry, lol. As another diehard fan of 10 years, who devoured these games after I finished DAI (and who romanced Solas...what, 12 times now?), I've been dreaming about this day. Catie, I'm so happy you got to play it and all of your questions about what happens next were answered. I didn't wait 10 years for a perfect game, I waited 10 years to finish a story. A story that means so, so much to me. A few more days and the chapter closes!
Now that I've finished your video, I just wanted to highlight the wisdom in the last couple minutes of it. I, myself, realized a year or so ago that I use RPGs and my own fanfiction writing to confront realities about my life that I'm not comfortable processing directly, and that perhaps that is part of the reason why Dragon Age in particular means so much to me. I was very touched by your final words, so thank you for showing that vulnerability and honesty.
Catie, I cried alongside you in the video ending. Dragon Age hás always hit a special spot in my heart, and you expressed that so well. Cant wait to cry a river with Veilguard
I'm gonna be real, your review is the only one I care about. I think we relate to the games very similarly and keep coming back to it for similar reason (and we both are in behavioral health which I think is a funny coincidence!!) so hearing you say it hits all the right beats for you is all I need in the way of reassurance. Thank you so much!!
I wanted to round back to this video-thank you so much for making it. I was on the fence about whether to buy the game at launch or not, but it was this review that pushed me to go for it and I'm so, so glad I did. :) It was a beautiful experience, flaws and all. I'm subbing to keep up with your future stuff!
Thank you for reviewing the game, I know I can trust you on this. Your closing statement did move me to tears, but it makes me so happy to know that there are people out there that feel so strongly about Dragon Age. Thank you for the advice also, I will definitely make sure to enjoy the game to the fullest -- a first, blind playthrough doesnt happen every day.
Phew, that that couple minutes I could feel the emotion and feel the love for the series that I think you've shown on your channel. I was very similar in my playthroughs of the Dragon age games, each one hitting a point that i didn't really realize until i looked back in hindsight. the series became such a flagship for me because in this world the people in it felt like just that: People. Thank you for loving the series, for being unapologetic about it, and for providing us with content here and on Split the veil! To all the STV episodes to come!
ohhh Caitie, thank you so much for all the work you do and for caring so much about this. I can never thank you enough for how your content help me through most of my growing up, i started waiting for this game at 12 and now I'm turning 21 in a few weeks. im so excited about the game and so thankful for coming across your videos
"Veilguard isn't perfect, but that doesn't change the fact that I still love it." That's the thing - there's not a single video game (or other piece of media) that's perfect. It's impossible for them to not have at least a few objective flaws, because their creators are living creatures which are flawed. In line with this, every Dragon Age has flaws but doesn't stop them being among my favourite games and IPs.
This is true. I just wish I could excuse the hard fumbles this game has, the changes to design, and the fact it's not what I wanted both before inquisition and now. I hope people paying full price for this actually find something they like/enjoy, if I ever pick it up I won't be doing so till it's under half off probably.
Wow... Thank you so much for your review of Veilguard. I can fully understand what you mean about "An End." Hearing you get emotional was relatable and I really felt what you met. You have been a port in the storm for myself for many years as I watched and rewatched all of your content. Dreaming of the day I could final play DA4 or Veilguard. I'm still super excited to play this game and experience the story for myself. Thank you Caitie. ❤
Dragon age is something that means a lot to me. My dad had just divorced my stepmom and my life went upside down for the second time. I was 14. My dad got DA2. And I replayed that game. Over. And over. And over. And then DAI came out. And I to this day play it all the time. I love these games. My default game is DAI (which will probably change now) I keep my PS3 so that I can replay DAO and DA2 literally that’s why. I’m so freaking happy that it’s finally here.
I really really enjoyed Emmerich as a character. There's so much to love about his constantly upbeat personality and academic politeness, and the charming little skeleton familiar. Also! The Butcher's voice actor and performance was absolutely magnanimous and hypnotic for the grand total 2 minutes he was on screen. Feels like a missed opportunity!
ive been going back and rewatching ALL of your lore videos the last couple weeks to keep me going so your review was one of the ones i was looking forward to thank you so much for all your hard work 🥰
Sorry, but after finishing the game, I was so disappointed, that I don't really care about the game's lore anymore. I don't want to believe it, but the Bioware of old is gone. 😢
Right? I don’t know what she’s talking about.. How is this game good? I was excited and took 2 weeks of paid vacation. What a disappointment. This game isn’t canon for me.
@lcicada Well, you don't really get to decide what is or isn't canon. That's not how it works. Also, you took PTO for a video game? Just seems a bit weird to me for people to invest so much time into a new game they haven't tried yet. You'd have been better off trying it out first before doing that. Tbh. So it's not really the games fault in that regard.
@@HeirofAetherso if they took PTO and had nothing but good things to say about veilguard you would be mocking them about it? You only seem to reply to comments with something critical to say about this review or the game itself. Do better.
@hansno1475 No, my statement remains the same. Using PTO to play video games is foolishness at best and irresponsible at worst. I mean, you do you dude, but you might try spreading your time out better than spending it all on a game they claim they didn't even really like in the first place, just seems weird to me. Hope that clarifies things, bud. Have a good night 😁
@@HeirofAether yeah and I suppose you’d speak of Ghil taking time off from her job to make dragon age content in the same way? Or any other DA content creator currently banging the ‘veilguard is good!’ drum? You can just admit you’re a hypocrite you know, the grapes aren’t that sour. Once again, bud. Do better.
I got so emotional watching this!!! Your channel was integral to me discovering and falling in love with dragon age, and to see us finally reach this moment is incredible. Your parting message has me feeling all sorts of emotions, and I'm so happy you got to experience this 🥺
This straight up made me cry. I feel so deeply about the story your shared at the end. These games gave me perspective and let me know I was not alone at so many crucial moments in my own life. Thank you for sharing, Ghil. ❤
Thank you Caitie for this amazing review. I can't wait for Veilguard. Hearing your comments about the companions has me really excited. Was in tears at the end of the video hearing your final comments on how this means to you
hey i discovered your channel because of this video and i have to say dont be anxious or afraid about how your opinions come off, i can tell you're very invested into the game and your love for it and the series seeps off in every word and expression.
Thank you for your heartfelt review. These games have meant so much to me since I found Origins in my teens. Midnight releases for both DA2 and Inquisition and I share many of those feelings. The end of your video has me emotional to even start up this game on Thursday. I know I am going to cry just knowing what it is. I only discovered your channel recently, but thank you for your work and I can't wait to see what you make and bring in the future! Ma serannas!
I was really hopeful after your emotional review - but it only made the letdown worse. It's just so bland and hollow.. not to mention how they deal with all the games that came before. How you can have have so much faith in this franchise going forward I have absolutely no clue
I felt deceived by this review. It's... so much worse than what she describes. It's a shame since I'm probably as much of a Dragon Age fan as she is, but I felt the exact opposite in every single way. I cannot understand how someone can call Veilguard a love letter.
@@krasmasov6852 Ah, gotcha. More power to you for feeling that way, but I disagree. No offense, but it's hard for me to agree it's obviously a love letter to the series if it's extremely divisive.
Your thoughtful insight was so appropriated, Caitie, along with your personal reflection at the end. I got teary hearing it! It's wonderful that Veilguard was perfect for you, I'm so glad.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for covering the dragon age games with such love and respect. Thedas has been my refuge over the years in ways i can't even describe, so the ending really touched me. I'm inmensly grateful to have found this games and your channel. And beyond hyped to delve into this world one more time!!! DRAGON AGE THE VEILGUARD LET'S GOOO
Honestly, its the first time I ever saw your content (I'm not sure why, but something i'll rectify asap!!) But a review like yours was one i was waiting for, because like you the past dragon age games mean so much to me. They helped me grow and mature into the person i am today. Seeing that someone who loves the dragon age games gave it a greenlight and calling it "perfect for me" is all I needed. I was always going to buy this game, but now I can do it happily knowing my favourite game series is back to its former glory.
Now that I've time to finish the game and form my own opinions, I'm actually really interested in hearing you talk more about how you hated Rook during your time on the community council and how Rook changed from then. I'm so curious to hear how they're different and what feedback the devs might have taken.
I've very looking forward to this. It's perfect! 3 days until I and others get to experience the excitement we can all hear in your voice in the entire video. Thank you, Caitie! 💙💙
Apparently I’ve been a member for over 3 years now, which is wild because it feels like yesterday that I joined. Anyway, really glad to see your review!
I remember hearing your Solavellan warning before I started Veilguard and I am so glad I did as I was able to fully entrench myself into what the game offered and patiently let the Inquisitors pieces fall as they may. You getting emotional at the end made me so emotional too, thank you for everything you've done for this community.
Honestly im a bit disappointed by your review. Your review at first gave me hope and I decided to play the game, only to find out it doesnt actually feel like a love letter at all. And I expected more from you than other reviewer because I know you are also a fan of the saga and how invested you are. Its glaringly obvious while playng the game that something went very wrong with the writting. And im not just talking about quality here, the lore is all over the place and I mean it. And as a chanel focused on the lore of the game I expected you to at least mentioned it. Every aspect of the dragon age sage was cut. You can no longer talk freely to your companions, you do so only through story triggered cutscenes. The codex is barely there and pales in comparision to any of the previous games. We go to a bunch of countries we never explored only to not even explore them. The story and the companions and every piece of writting in this game feel like a first draft. And the lore, they massacred the lore. And its not even like they were trying to retcon it. If this is a love letter I dont know what love is. Its clear that there was no actual love or passion behind this project. It looks amazing it play good but it is jus not a dragon age game. The lore, the politics which mada a dragon age tittle a dragon age are just not there anymore. The consequences from previous games disappeared, and I mean we dont get a single codex entry about stuff we chose. Having played the game now, every promising resolution the previous games were hinting at were destroyed by this one. Mythal and her essence, Kieran, the well of sorrows, even freaking Solas is written nothing like in inquisition. From another youtuber that just makes reviews I may have been satisfied with a review like this. But coming from you who knows so much about the lore and have an entire channel dedicated to it, I honestky expected better. Your review was and is what would would define for a lot of DA fans if the game was worth buying. Im sorry if this comes off as disrespectful, I simply would have prefered for brutal honesty in these review
Except there are people, like me, who feels the exact same way this person does. Even said it might not be for everybody. So I'm sorry you didn't enjoy it, but if you trust other people to decide for you....that's your own fault. And to come on here and blame them for it is honestly rather childish, so please, please do better and do some self reflection 😔
@HeirofAether un very clear in my comment why I'm disappointed on her as a youtuber. I did not buy the game, I pirated it. I'm disappointed she failed to mention any of this which is not subjective. Liking or disliking the game is subjective. The fact that is game changes the lore constantly, shows nothing of the politics a dragon age game is known for, has minimal codex entries, and has every other aspect that has to do with writting reduced are objective facts Ghil didnt mention at her review.
@afgusti4269 what changes? The Grey Wardens are the same, Tevinter and the Venatori are the same, the Nevarran necromancers are the same, the Qunari are different because of the schism that happened. The only faction you can argue did change was the Crows, but even then, it's minor. Also, we knew all of these in-game conflicts already before the game came out, so why is this such a surprise for you? This game stepped away from politics because that's literally everything Inquisition was about. We wanted something different, and I'm personally happy with what we got. There are no actual retcons in this game, and ironically enough, there are plenty of examples from previous games. Like Leliana being alive if you killed her in Origins, Sebastian always becomes Prince of Starkhaven, and Wynne canonically doesn't die until Asunder. Minimal codex entries? Are you kidding? I've only gotten 45 percent of them after playing almost 60 hours and only just now finished Act 1. Are you speedrunning the game? Also, even more sad, you came on here to complain when you didn't even bother to buy the game. If you didn't lose anything, why are you even here?
@@Dominicanadaa They can vent but if their frustrations are misplaced or incorrect what’s the issue with correcting those points. Lots of dislike comes down to a warped perspective of the old games and issues present in dragon age since the beginning. If you hate the game, it’s perfectly okay, there is subjectivity after all but a few negative claims have been made as almost facts to being unique to DAVG which is just untrue. There are flaws and it’s important to recognise what flaws are new vs what flaws are consistent to the franchise so to manage expectations and communicate the hopes of fixing them in future. Especially not to put previous titles on a pedestal or nostalgia tinted shades, choking any innovation or creativity from the future of the franchise.
Catie!!! The ending made me so emotional! I am sobbing!!! I understand one million percent where you are coming from. Dragon Age has been like a campfire and a warm blanket most of my life. It feels like a second home, and has touched me in ways that no other media truly has on so many fronts, and I know it has for others as well and I truly love that about it. Thank you for being a beacon of positivity all of these years. We all appreciate you so much!
That ending gave me goosebumps. I love how passionate you are and could listen to you talk for hours (i pretty much have at this point lol). Can’t wait to get my hands on it Thursday!
Gods, this review makes me cry happy tears. Thanks for the reminder Caitie, for us to take our time, enjoy it and really be present in our playing of the games. I can hear the tears in your voice and it makes me want to cry. Thank you for sharing this video with us. And happy birthday!!!
I hate to say this, as a massive DA and BioWare fan, but the writing decisions with Veilguard in relation to the plot, characters, and overall franchise have been (in my opinion) abysmal. I won’t provide spoilers, seeing as this is a non-spoiler video, but all I can say is I’ve been left disappointed and I almost regret waiting ten years for this game. I genuinely feel as if I’ve been slapped in the face by some of the choices BioWare made in the writers room. (BTW I am not referring to any external IRL political stuff in this comment) Veilguard as it’s own thing is a fine game (not great or good just fine), but IMO as a follow up to DAI (and by extension what came before it) I found it extremely lacking. I’m happy you and others liked it, genuinely, but I just can’t hop on that boat.
Same and it makes me quite sad. Especially after seeing the concept art for Joplin. We could have had such a great game (in terms of lore and worldbuilding at least). I feel for Gaider too
I finished it last night and I was balling my eyes out for hours… that’s how angry and disappointed I was. I don’t know who wrote this.. It felt like a 15year old straight out of therapy fanfic… The characters are flat and non believable, everything is extremely repetitive and cautious. The lore is ruined. It seems like the writers forgot or simply didn’t give a sh*t to the events happening even in the last game. When Morrigan told us how she became a vessel for Mythal …. I felt my brain shutting down. Didn’t we have the well of sorrow? Why it’s never mentioned? And it’s just a tiny thing among the ocean of disrespect. The romance was painfully boring and my oh my… the sex scene with Davrin at that moment left me feeling disgusted… When my heart was Brocken by the events. The authors decided to patch it with sex… so much for the therapy language in the game… F* it. It has killed my favorite franchise forever.
That was similar to Mass Effect for me. No matter the critique or hate it got about the ending, no other game made me so connected to characters and crying at every turn in the end.
Thank you so much, Caitie. I teared up right there with you. As a massive lore and story nerd, yours is the opinion I most value, and I cannot tell you how happy and excited I am to go back to Thedas once more! Please enjoy seeing the rest of us yell and gasp in the coming days!
Thank you. For all of your enthusiasm, for your care with spoilers, and for this video in particular. The ending really hit me since it made me think about my own resonance with the games. I just wanted you to know how glad I am that we have you in this community!
I feel so relieved after listening to your and Kala Elizabeth's review of the game as I share a lot of the same opinions about all the games as you guys, so I feel content in knowing that Veilguard is going to hit the same way the previous games did. Not perfect, but still loved. I can't wait to experience the newest chapter of this story!
Caitie, I cried. Thank you. I am so ready to go back into this amazing world. Thank you for your spoiler free coverage, I could not have gone through this wait without it. ❤
I want to say thank you for very fair and honest review. You validated a lot of my own concerns and expectations so super big thanks for that. Also just wanna say I have loved your DA content for years and I think the community would not be the same without your presence.
I started out liking the game and then... idk... as I progressed further I found myself getting more annoyed by things. But as a long time fan of your channel, it was nice to hear your excitement and enjoyment in your voice. Maybe I'll give the game another chance.
Same exact thing happened to me! I still haven’t finished it bleh I loved it at first, it was new and it was dragon age, but then the sense of something being off just kept building and now I feel like I’m just trudging through the game, and that’s so sad for me! When I first played inquisition after origins and da2 I couldn’t put inquisition down. I sped through my first playthrough (and 2nd lol) obsessively. Since then I’ve played every game over 10 times (over 15 for origins). But veilguard? I can’t even get through my first playthrough without wanting to go back to inquisition. I thought I would love this game. I wanted to love it. Maybe I’ll get a second wind? I’m determined to finish at least one playthrough
I’m having fun a bit, but I really do not like Taash. Taash is a complete hypocrite. Hates when they are labeled an idea, but will quickly insult Emmerich for being a “Death Mage”. Taash is very immature. Teenage like.
@@MrPawsPause Yeah, if only they wrote Taash to grow and change over time and develop away from that judgmental tendency. Oh wait, that's exactly what happens.
Absolutely phenomenal review, Ghil. I've been watching your content for years and for the most part, your views of the lore, fandom, theories, etc have been the same as mine. So, hearing you give this review is so relieving for me. It's been such a long wait with such a troubled development at times that I was afraid to get my hopes up, even seeing the bits we have since this summer. Thank you for this. And thank you for all your years of hard work. As always, I can't wait to see what you have to say about this installment going forward c:
Thanks so much for this review, and also thank you so so much for all the work you did with your no-spoiler videos throughout the marketing campaign! Also the ending to this made me genuinely cry, thank you so much Caitie, I am SO so excited! Edit: I asked a question in this comment that after a second listen through of this I realise you actually answered lol.
Caitie, I have been following your channel and content since its inception. You (and Jordan) have kept the love for all things Dragon Age (and Bioware) alive in my heart for years, and I cannot express to you how thrilled I am *for you* that you were able to get a review copy and that you loved the game. I've avoided nearly all pre release content and reviews, but I am making the exception for your review. Your opinion is, honestly, the only one I trust , and I thank you for sharing it. Setting aside one's biases isn't always easy, but I know you're speaking from an honest place in your heart. I wanted to stop for a second amidst all the excitement and just say thank you for your content, your resilience, your time, and your thoughts. You are a rockstar and an inspiration, and I look forward to all the upcoming Dragon Age discussions and content you will inevitably share with us. So, thank you, Caitie!!
Crying with you at the very end. Such a wonderful review, thank you for the hints of what to expect and where to put out attention to. Big hugs, queen, let’s cry together.
Oh my god Caitie! I just wanted to listen to some comforting and not too lore heavy dragon age chatter while falling asleep and now I am extremely awake again and also kinda teary. As one of those people who have seen you as basically part of the franchise for a long time now, thank you, this was very good and real.
Also, the Solavellan PSA was genuinely moving, despite me not being a die-hard Solasmancer. It just reminded me that everyone who waited for a meaningful ending for a decade actually got one. Not what I would call a happy ending, but it's huge. And, with all the plot points that were kind of predictable from miles away - I did not anticipate the way that went. Wild.
"setting a bone I didn't know was broken" is such a remarkably poignant and articulate way to summarizing how I feel about Bioware games. Great review Ghil.
I'm happy to hear that the game was so fulfilling for you. It's not much of an exaggeration to say that you and Jordan not only kept my love of the series alive over the past several years but made it grow. I hope that The Veilguard is just as impactful for me when I get the chance to play it too
All I can say is. Dragon age has never been perfect. The fact that people who connect with the world of dragon age think it is worth it means more than a number.
I have been a long time follower of your channel and I've eagerly devoured all the lore videos and really just everything. To hear your tone of voice at the end of this video makes me even more eager (if that's even possible) to experience this game for myself. Thank you so much for all your time and dedication to this game series and the world of Thedas and the intricate lore that comes with it. I can't wait to see what else you have to say after game release.
(Warning for lore nerds who dont want to be spoiled, IGN mentioned a place you go to. And like, to anyone else, it wouldn't be a spoiler. But its definitely a significant place that you might not wanna know about.) For anyone whose concerned about gameplay. I think its reassuring that people who dont care about dragon age the way that I care, liked the game. To me, that means that the gameplay was compelling enough for them to keep playing. Also, as a side note, I really like the community you fostered. Its nice to go through the comments and see hope and excitement, instead of the cynicism ive seen in other places. Im so so so so so excited for this game and im really happy that you loved it. Im glad I get to share that excitement with other people.
Your content really helped me get through the long wait for this game. This was a wonderful and heartfelt review, I am SO excited to play the game myself. Thank you for everything, I'm looking forward to your future videos :))
Ghil, thank you for uploading. You've helped me connect to a community, and that's awesome. And I'm so so excited to see what Veilguard has in store for us
Yours, Kala and Ashe are the reviews I was waiting for. You're DA fans making content for DA fans, and your review delivers that perfectly. You shouldn't have to "apologize" for making the content your audience follows you for. And your final words just put the finger in why Morrigan's DAO arc gets to me so much and why I'm so happy she returns again and again to the franchise. So thank you for the free therapy, lol.
Oh Caitie, you got me tearing up 🥹❤ I remember discovering your channel after DAI when I was hungry for Dragon Age content and eventually being in your streams. You've given this community such great resources and entertainment and it's been gratifying seeing you grow as a creator. Please know that even though this may feel like an end, it has been a hell of a ride and I for one am excited for this game and the future of your channel ❤
Hey Catie! Been watching your videos for a long time now, what feels like years. I wanted to say thank you for all the passion you put into your videos and this fandom. It's crazy to think we're in the 11th hour before Veilguard's release, but your channel has helped keep the excitement alive. Super excited for DA4 and super excited to see all the new content you'll be able to make after its release. Here's to a few more years! :)
Hearing you cry at the end really hit home. I am so excited for this game. Your excitement and love for this series reflects my own and your review is the only one I trust at this point
I haven't touched the Dragon Age series for 10 years and didn't really expect a sequel. But I remember a lot of the details and can't wait to see what happens next in Thedas. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, really loved your review!
Thank you so much for supplying us DA lore throughout the years! I've been watching your vids since you started and I'm soo soooo soooo proud and happy for you!
Honestly Caitie, I've been following you and have loved your videos for 10 years and while I'm blooming with excitement for Veilguard, I just feel so happy for you that you got to experience all that. Hoping for many more DA lore years to come!
This is a great review, IMO. You say, "how can I be impartial," but this is a balanced and fair review in my perspective - being a long-term fan doesn't exclude impartiality, and in fact informs a better review. I've been a fan since Origins and have a similar position to yours with the previous games, and this review is frankly quite informative. You covered DAV's strengths and weak spots fairly and have relayed some important information to fans and newcomers. For my part, you confirmed what I suspected: that the game has suffered some cuts for time or budget, and that some parts of the story don't have enough breathing room. I'm probably not going to go for the Emmrich romance route but am glad to hear that it's great and seems strongly-written. The length of the game also sounds about right, closer to Origins than to DAI (which bloated a lot with billions of side quests). It's very informative as a whole! I can hear your excitement throughout, and perhaps hints of bittersweet acceptance of the ending at the end there. Oh boy. This one's a ride, isn't it? The way you talk about the finality of the ending chapter says a lot. Don't worry about your gameplay review because you used super easy mode for exactly what it's for, that's valid as playing on hard or nightmare. lol
Im typing as i watch this video but like you i have immersed myself in this world. I experienced DAO in 2013 and since then i have been an Avid Dragon Age fan. Whether its what i wanted or not, I've waited 10 years for this this game. Thank you for being honest! Your review fills my heart with hope so far 🙏🏾
I'm crying, what you said at the end, it resonated with me deeply. Thanks you for this review and sharing your feelings. I am so excited for this game, but I also know I will feel broken at the end of it, knowing it's an end of a big chapter. We've been waiting so long.
Hey everyone- I do want to make a quick correction- as of right now the option that I was talking about, which gives a 'you chose X path', is NOT actually able to be turned off! Or at least when I tried now, I couldn't figure it out. RIP.
Damn, I wasn't planning on disabling them but I can definitely see how having the game spell out the impact of a choice could remove the wonder of discovery for some people. I imagine patching in that option could be pretty easy, though, so hopefully we see them include that in a post-release patch.
I was watching a gameplay where Harding was clearly anxious around Rook and the subject of her new powers.
And then the tooltip pops up and says "HARDING IS FEELING ANXIOUS ABOUT HER NEW POWERS"
nooo, really...why is it necessary to spell it out?!
Saddly I can't feel like i enjoyed this game as much as past games. It felt like Disney's take on dragon age something weird it felt off. However I do enjoy the fact that you enjoyed it, my opinion is simply personal.
who can you trust more, angry twitter trolls or someone whos lived and breathed the series through ALL it's media?
What makes you think the angry twitter trolls havent lived and breathed the series as well? Dragon age is a pretty popular franchise you know.
Cause most of them dont know crap about the game àd saying woke when they see gay romance...@@garycannon4644
@@garycannon4644 considering most of them have been yapping about the series "going woke" when the original games gave us bisexual romance options in 2009 (( when queer folks were still HIGHLY stigmatised and seen as gross by the majority )) says no, they haven't lived and breathed the games so much as stuck their head in the metaphorical sand
With no offense intended to Caitie, the only person I'll trust is me when I'm playing the game dude
@garycannon4644 there is an extreme heavy difference between a fan critiquing a company and a Twitter gooner who is upset about trans scars and the fact they can't bust to a fiction character.
"Veilguard isn't perfect, but that doesn't change the fact that I still love it."
I think this will be the general consensus for us fans who watch Caitie's channel. Like we all know that we're going to play this game because of the lore and story and the emotions that this franchise has made us feel. It won't be a game for everyone, but from Caitie's review I feel like this game was made for us in mind and I'm so thankful that there's still a small community of the Dragon Age who will definitely enjoy the game.
For real. I’ve been trying to say this on those ‘review’ channels who just post reactive things to get views. I’d take the reviews of channels dedicated to BioWare/dragon age over channels who’ve probably played the game once and decided to join the hate bandwagon.
Honestly, I'd consider it a mantra of the franchise for better or worse.
I'm always jumping in to a new DA game not with the expectation of it being the same, but with the expectation of it trying something different.
That's my feeling on the whole series!
yah its going to be bad :(
@@hexknives6352must be embarrassing to be so wrong lmao. Game is absolutely incredible.
Omg Catie that ending was everything! 🥹
I loved it, I almost cried ❤🥹
@@NessG07 same here 🥺
@@NessG07not almost 😭🥺
Incredible
It really was. The entire “An End” segment sold me on the game more than anything else so far, I think.
"I know Veilguard isn't perfect, but it was perfect for me." This is so touching, Ghil, thanks for sharing your experience with the game. I'm even more excited to get my hands on it and enjoy your future lore analysis.
Edit: One aspect I'm curious about is how necessary the approval clarification messages are (e.g. "Varric noticed you prefer action", etc). I kinda wanna turn them off and let character behavior inform the impression of how they feel. Would I miss out on critical context by doing so?
@@Goony1246 hell does shill mean? Is that a Gen Z thing? Second time I've seen that word.
@@sonnenblumefrau2048 Essentially paid review or especially biased (favorably so) towards a certain product.
Seems apt in this case, given that early reviews towards this game is essentially a case of access journalism.
@@sonnenblumefrau2048 it's a word used by little boys and fascists to attempt to delegitimise content they don't like. It means "paid to do x thing".
@@Goony1246 Are you just going around and commenting negative things on all DAV videos? Did you actually listen to what she had to say, and more importantly, HOW she said it? There is no chance, especially if you follow and are a fan of this channel, that you'd be questioning her dedication and honest emotions in this video.
Nah, turn them off! I didn't see one that felt like was something I needed to know?
The way i came close to the screen to listen to the solavellans advice, this is so important to me haha
You too? Good to know, I was not alone. XD
ME TOO, WTH XD
same 😂 i felt so called out
So I am an older gamer. I having played tt rpgs & video games since the 80s. I know exactly what you mean about Dragon Age having your number and helping you through things in a way other games don't. Thank you for all your hard work.
Anyone else hear the sheer excitement in Caitie's voice at the start? I am SO EXCITED FOR THIS GAME
And the sadness building up at the end...
Yes. Hearing the excitement of a true fan who has played has me even more hyped.
Yeah she breaksdown a little at the end too.
Yours was the first review I looked for immediately, so excited to hear what you think!
that solavellan advice KILLED ME!!! i’m bawling
My prediction
*POSSIBLE SPOILER*
U will need to find all 6 solas memories (that leaked from achievement list)
Unless they are mandatory to collect as a story progression (I dont think they are from multiple reasons)
I bet that they are equivalent of codex from trespasser
@@aleksandramusia3563 wtf dude I'm glad I didn't click more
@@daughterofthedasThe comment didnt’t contain spoilers tho?
bawling over pixels...
Your closing statement made me cry, lol. As another diehard fan of 10 years, who devoured these games after I finished DAI (and who romanced Solas...what, 12 times now?), I've been dreaming about this day. Catie, I'm so happy you got to play it and all of your questions about what happens next were answered.
I didn't wait 10 years for a perfect game, I waited 10 years to finish a story. A story that means so, so much to me. A few more days and the chapter closes!
Now that I've finished your video, I just wanted to highlight the wisdom in the last couple minutes of it. I, myself, realized a year or so ago that I use RPGs and my own fanfiction writing to confront realities about my life that I'm not comfortable processing directly, and that perhaps that is part of the reason why Dragon Age in particular means so much to me. I was very touched by your final words, so thank you for showing that vulnerability and honesty.
Catie, I cried alongside you in the video ending. Dragon Age hás always hit a special spot in my heart, and you expressed that so well. Cant wait to cry a river with Veilguard
And thats the last DA vid ill be watching this week. You guys, we made it. Thank you so much for all your work Ghil! See you all on the other side.
I'm gonna be real, your review is the only one I care about. I think we relate to the games very similarly and keep coming back to it for similar reason (and we both are in behavioral health which I think is a funny coincidence!!) so hearing you say it hits all the right beats for you is all I need in the way of reassurance. Thank you so much!!
SAME ; -;
Even though it is incredibly shady and unethical to "review" something you worked on?
so true!!
Same here, Caitie's opinion is the only one that really really matters! She knows what's in our hearts because it is also in hers
@@jenniferhanses ...She didn't work on it? At most she consulted on a finished product and has been up front about that
I wanted to round back to this video-thank you so much for making it. I was on the fence about whether to buy the game at launch or not, but it was this review that pushed me to go for it and I'm so, so glad I did. :) It was a beautiful experience, flaws and all. I'm subbing to keep up with your future stuff!
Thank you for reviewing the game, I know I can trust you on this. Your closing statement did move me to tears, but it makes me so happy to know that there are people out there that feel so strongly about Dragon Age. Thank you for the advice also, I will definitely make sure to enjoy the game to the fullest -- a first, blind playthrough doesnt happen every day.
did you enjoy it or you died by cringe xD
Phew, that that couple minutes I could feel the emotion and feel the love for the series that I think you've shown on your channel. I was very similar in my playthroughs of the Dragon age games, each one hitting a point that i didn't really realize until i looked back in hindsight. the series became such a flagship for me because in this world the people in it felt like just that: People. Thank you for loving the series, for being unapologetic about it, and for providing us with content here and on Split the veil! To all the STV episodes to come!
The ending of this vid made me tear up 🥺 I literally cannot wait to get back into Thedas again
Me too!
My eyes are definitely wet right now too
ohhh Caitie, thank you so much for all the work you do and for caring so much about this. I can never thank you enough for how your content help me through most of my growing up, i started waiting for this game at 12 and now I'm turning 21 in a few weeks.
im so excited about the game and so thankful for coming across your videos
Your emotions at the end are so darn heartwarming, thank you for sharing.
I love your review. Sincerity and vulnerability are in short supply. I hope your audience support and appreciate you.
"Veilguard isn't perfect, but that doesn't change the fact that I still love it."
That's the thing - there's not a single video game (or other piece of media) that's perfect. It's impossible for them to not have at least a few objective flaws, because their creators are living creatures which are flawed. In line with this, every Dragon Age has flaws but doesn't stop them being among my favourite games and IPs.
This is true. I just wish I could excuse the hard fumbles this game has, the changes to design, and the fact it's not what I wanted both before inquisition and now. I hope people paying full price for this actually find something they like/enjoy, if I ever pick it up I won't be doing so till it's under half off probably.
Hello Kitty Island Adventure was perfect game
Wow... Thank you so much for your review of Veilguard. I can fully understand what you mean about "An End." Hearing you get emotional was relatable and I really felt what you met. You have been a port in the storm for myself for many years as I watched and rewatched all of your content. Dreaming of the day I could final play DA4 or Veilguard. I'm still super excited to play this game and experience the story for myself.
Thank you Caitie. ❤
Dragon age is something that means a lot to me. My dad had just divorced my stepmom and my life went upside down for the second time. I was 14. My dad got DA2. And I replayed that game. Over. And over. And over. And then DAI came out. And I to this day play it all the time. I love these games. My default game is DAI (which will probably change now) I keep my PS3 so that I can replay DAO and DA2 literally that’s why. I’m so freaking happy that it’s finally here.
I really really enjoyed Emmerich as a character. There's so much to love about his constantly upbeat personality and academic politeness, and the charming little skeleton familiar.
Also! The Butcher's voice actor and performance was absolutely magnanimous and hypnotic for the grand total 2 minutes he was on screen. Feels like a missed opportunity!
Been here day one and a fan for years. Thank you Caitie (and Jordan) for being my DA fix for these 10 years!
ive been going back and rewatching ALL of your lore videos the last couple weeks to keep me going so your review was one of the ones i was looking forward to thank you so much for all your hard work 🥰
Sorry, but after finishing the game, I was so disappointed, that I don't really care about the game's lore anymore.
I don't want to believe it, but the Bioware of old is gone. 😢
Right? I don’t know what she’s talking about..
How is this game good?
I was excited and took 2 weeks of paid vacation. What a disappointment. This game isn’t canon for me.
@lcicada Well, you don't really get to decide what is or isn't canon. That's not how it works.
Also, you took PTO for a video game? Just seems a bit weird to me for people to invest so much time into a new game they haven't tried yet. You'd have been better off trying it out first before doing that. Tbh. So it's not really the games fault in that regard.
@@HeirofAetherso if they took PTO and had nothing but good things to say about veilguard you would be mocking them about it? You only seem to reply to comments with something critical to say about this review or the game itself.
Do better.
@hansno1475 No, my statement remains the same. Using PTO to play video games is foolishness at best and irresponsible at worst. I mean, you do you dude, but you might try spreading your time out better than spending it all on a game they claim they didn't even really like in the first place, just seems weird to me.
Hope that clarifies things, bud. Have a good night 😁
@@HeirofAether yeah and I suppose you’d speak of Ghil taking time off from her job to make dragon age content in the same way? Or any other DA content creator currently banging the ‘veilguard is good!’ drum?
You can just admit you’re a hypocrite you know, the grapes aren’t that sour.
Once again, bud. Do better.
I got so emotional watching this!!! Your channel was integral to me discovering and falling in love with dragon age, and to see us finally reach this moment is incredible. Your parting message has me feeling all sorts of emotions, and I'm so happy you got to experience this 🥺
This straight up made me cry. I feel so deeply about the story your shared at the end. These games gave me perspective and let me know I was not alone at so many crucial moments in my own life. Thank you for sharing, Ghil. ❤
Thank you Caitie for this amazing review. I can't wait for Veilguard. Hearing your comments about the companions has me really excited. Was in tears at the end of the video hearing your final comments on how this means to you
The only opinion I need has uploaded their review!! 🎉
hey i discovered your channel because of this video and i have to say dont be anxious or afraid about how your opinions come off, i can tell you're very invested into the game and your love for it and the series seeps off in every word and expression.
Thank you for your heartfelt review. These games have meant so much to me since I found Origins in my teens. Midnight releases for both DA2 and Inquisition and I share many of those feelings. The end of your video has me emotional to even start up this game on Thursday. I know I am going to cry just knowing what it is. I only discovered your channel recently, but thank you for your work and I can't wait to see what you make and bring in the future! Ma serannas!
Ghildirthalen! Thank you and Jack for keeping us afloat!! We appreciate you guys dearly!!
I was really hopeful after your emotional review - but it only made the letdown worse. It's just so bland and hollow.. not to mention how they deal with all the games that came before. How you can have have so much faith in this franchise going forward I have absolutely no clue
I felt deceived by this review. It's... so much worse than what she describes. It's a shame since I'm probably as much of a Dragon Age fan as she is, but I felt the exact opposite in every single way. I cannot understand how someone can call Veilguard a love letter.
@@dostwood5103 Because it obviously is
@@krasmasov6852 wdym
@@dostwood5103 I mean Veilguard IS a love letter to the series.
@@krasmasov6852 Ah, gotcha. More power to you for feeling that way, but I disagree.
No offense, but it's hard for me to agree it's obviously a love letter to the series if it's extremely divisive.
Your thoughtful insight was so appropriated, Caitie, along with your personal reflection at the end. I got teary hearing it! It's wonderful that Veilguard was perfect for you, I'm so glad.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for covering the dragon age games with such love and respect. Thedas has been my refuge over the years in ways i can't even describe, so the ending really touched me. I'm inmensly grateful to have found this games and your channel. And beyond hyped to delve into this world one more time!!! DRAGON AGE THE VEILGUARD LET'S GOOO
Honestly, its the first time I ever saw your content (I'm not sure why, but something i'll rectify asap!!)
But a review like yours was one i was waiting for, because like you the past dragon age games mean so much to me. They helped me grow and mature into the person i am today.
Seeing that someone who loves the dragon age games gave it a greenlight and calling it "perfect for me" is all I needed. I was always going to buy this game, but now I can do it happily knowing my favourite game series is back to its former glory.
A story that invokes emotions is all I needed from this entry, and it seems like we're getting it! Can't wait for release!
Now that I've time to finish the game and form my own opinions, I'm actually really interested in hearing you talk more about how you hated Rook during your time on the community council and how Rook changed from then. I'm so curious to hear how they're different and what feedback the devs might have taken.
Why are you making me cry! I’m at work!!
I've very looking forward to this. It's perfect! 3 days until I and others get to experience the excitement we can all hear in your voice in the entire video. Thank you, Caitie! 💙💙
Apparently I’ve been a member for over 3 years now, which is wild because it feels like yesterday that I joined.
Anyway, really glad to see your review!
I remember hearing your Solavellan warning before I started Veilguard and I am so glad I did as I was able to fully entrench myself into what the game offered and patiently let the Inquisitors pieces fall as they may. You getting emotional at the end made me so emotional too, thank you for everything you've done for this community.
Honestly im a bit disappointed by your review. Your review at first gave me hope and I decided to play the game, only to find out it doesnt actually feel like a love letter at all. And I expected more from you than other reviewer because I know you are also a fan of the saga and how invested you are.
Its glaringly obvious while playng the game that something went very wrong with the writting. And im not just talking about quality here, the lore is all over the place and I mean it. And as a chanel focused on the lore of the game I expected you to at least mentioned it. Every aspect of the dragon age sage was cut. You can no longer talk freely to your companions, you do so only through story triggered cutscenes. The codex is barely there and pales in comparision to any of the previous games. We go to a bunch of countries we never explored only to not even explore them. The story and the companions and every piece of writting in this game feel like a first draft. And the lore, they massacred the lore. And its not even like they were trying to retcon it.
If this is a love letter I dont know what love is. Its clear that there was no actual love or passion behind this project. It looks amazing it play good but it is jus not a dragon age game. The lore, the politics which mada a dragon age tittle a dragon age are just not there anymore. The consequences from previous games disappeared, and I mean we dont get a single codex entry about stuff we chose. Having played the game now, every promising resolution the previous games were hinting at were destroyed by this one. Mythal and her essence, Kieran, the well of sorrows, even freaking Solas is written nothing like in inquisition.
From another youtuber that just makes reviews I may have been satisfied with a review like this. But coming from you who knows so much about the lore and have an entire channel dedicated to it, I honestky expected better. Your review was and is what would would define for a lot of DA fans if the game was worth buying.
Im sorry if this comes off as disrespectful, I simply would have prefered for brutal honesty in these review
Except there are people, like me, who feels the exact same way this person does. Even said it might not be for everybody.
So I'm sorry you didn't enjoy it, but if you trust other people to decide for you....that's your own fault. And to come on here and blame them for it is honestly rather childish, so please, please do better and do some self reflection 😔
@HeirofAether un very clear in my comment why I'm disappointed on her as a youtuber. I did not buy the game, I pirated it. I'm disappointed she failed to mention any of this which is not subjective. Liking or disliking the game is subjective. The fact that is game changes the lore constantly, shows nothing of the politics a dragon age game is known for, has minimal codex entries, and has every other aspect that has to do with writting reduced are objective facts Ghil didnt mention at her review.
@afgusti4269 what changes?
The Grey Wardens are the same, Tevinter and the Venatori are the same, the Nevarran necromancers are the same, the Qunari are different because of the schism that happened. The only faction you can argue did change was the Crows, but even then, it's minor. Also, we knew all of these in-game conflicts already before the game came out, so why is this such a surprise for you?
This game stepped away from politics because that's literally everything Inquisition was about. We wanted something different, and I'm personally happy with what we got.
There are no actual retcons in this game, and ironically enough, there are plenty of examples from previous games. Like Leliana being alive if you killed her in Origins, Sebastian always becomes Prince of Starkhaven, and Wynne canonically doesn't die until Asunder.
Minimal codex entries? Are you kidding? I've only gotten 45 percent of them after playing almost 60 hours and only just now finished Act 1. Are you speedrunning the game?
Also, even more sad, you came on here to complain when you didn't even bother to buy the game. If you didn't lose anything, why are you even here?
You come off very rude and preachy here. Relax. They are just venting and rightfully so with how this game turned out @@HeirofAether
@@Dominicanadaa They can vent but if their frustrations are misplaced or incorrect what’s the issue with correcting those points. Lots of dislike comes down to a warped perspective of the old games and issues present in dragon age since the beginning.
If you hate the game, it’s perfectly okay, there is subjectivity after all but a few negative claims have been made as almost facts to being unique to DAVG which is just untrue. There are flaws and it’s important to recognise what flaws are new vs what flaws are consistent to the franchise so to manage expectations and communicate the hopes of fixing them in future. Especially not to put previous titles on a pedestal or nostalgia tinted shades, choking any innovation or creativity from the future of the franchise.
Catie!!! The ending made me so emotional! I am sobbing!!! I understand one million percent where you are coming from. Dragon Age has been like a campfire and a warm blanket most of my life. It feels like a second home, and has touched me in ways that no other media truly has on so many fronts, and I know it has for others as well and I truly love that about it.
Thank you for being a beacon of positivity all of these years. We all appreciate you so much!
That ending gave me goosebumps. I love how passionate you are and could listen to you talk for hours (i pretty much have at this point lol). Can’t wait to get my hands on it Thursday!
Gods, this review makes me cry happy tears. Thanks for the reminder Caitie, for us to take our time, enjoy it and really be present in our playing of the games. I can hear the tears in your voice and it makes me want to cry. Thank you for sharing this video with us. And happy birthday!!!
I certainly didn't expect a review to make me cry 😮 Thank you for this beautiful video, I can't wait to see what's in store on Thursday.
I hate to say this, as a massive DA and BioWare fan, but the writing decisions with Veilguard in relation to the plot, characters, and overall franchise have been (in my opinion) abysmal. I won’t provide spoilers, seeing as this is a non-spoiler video, but all I can say is I’ve been left disappointed and I almost regret waiting ten years for this game. I genuinely feel as if I’ve been slapped in the face by some of the choices BioWare made in the writers room. (BTW I am not referring to any external IRL political stuff in this comment) Veilguard as it’s own thing is a fine game (not great or good just fine), but IMO as a follow up to DAI (and by extension what came before it) I found it extremely lacking. I’m happy you and others liked it, genuinely, but I just can’t hop on that boat.
Same and i love the series but ive been let down by veilguard
Same and it makes me quite sad. Especially after seeing the concept art for Joplin. We could have had such a great game (in terms of lore and worldbuilding at least). I feel for Gaider too
@@a.b.7817 Yeah, you can really feel his absence on the DA:TV writing staff.
100%
I finished it last night and I was balling my eyes out for hours… that’s how angry and disappointed I was. I don’t know who wrote this.. It felt like a 15year old straight out of therapy fanfic… The characters are flat and non believable, everything is extremely repetitive and cautious. The lore is ruined. It seems like the writers forgot or simply didn’t give a sh*t to the events happening even in the last game. When Morrigan told us how she became a vessel for Mythal …. I felt my brain shutting down. Didn’t we have the well of sorrow? Why it’s never mentioned? And it’s just a tiny thing among the ocean of disrespect. The romance was painfully boring and my oh my… the sex scene with Davrin at that moment left me feeling disgusted… When my heart was Brocken by the events. The authors decided to patch it with sex… so much for the therapy language in the game… F* it. It has killed my favorite franchise forever.
That was similar to Mass Effect for me. No matter the critique or hate it got about the ending, no other game made me so connected to characters and crying at every turn in the end.
Having Ferelden destroyed by the super Blight just a couple of decades after our Warden saved it from Blight is such an insult.
Blight can return though. Just because someone stopped it doesn't mean it can't come back. Especially if an Evanuris is spreading it
So another day for Fereldan? They'll survive as they always have with past blights
You don't understand how Blights work...
@@owenparris7490 Will make sense not to be insulted and make my choices in my world States all in the valid
@@Rowan3733 Will make sense not to be insulted and make my choices in my world States all in the valid
Ghil ... you are amazing. Thank you so much for such a heartfelt review.
Thank you so much, Caitie. I teared up right there with you. As a massive lore and story nerd, yours is the opinion I most value, and I cannot tell you how happy and excited I am to go back to Thedas once more! Please enjoy seeing the rest of us yell and gasp in the coming days!
Thank you.
For all of your enthusiasm, for your care with spoilers, and for this video in particular. The ending really hit me since it made me think about my own resonance with the games. I just wanted you to know how glad I am that we have you in this community!
I feel so relieved after listening to your and Kala Elizabeth's review of the game as I share a lot of the same opinions about all the games as you guys, so I feel content in knowing that Veilguard is going to hit the same way the previous games did. Not perfect, but still loved. I can't wait to experience the newest chapter of this story!
Caitie, I cried. Thank you. I am so ready to go back into this amazing world. Thank you for your spoiler free coverage, I could not have gone through this wait without it. ❤
I want to say thank you for very fair and honest review. You validated a lot of my own concerns and expectations so super big thanks for that. Also just wanna say I have loved your DA content for years and I think the community would not be the same without your presence.
I started out liking the game and then... idk... as I progressed further I found myself getting more annoyed by things. But as a long time fan of your channel, it was nice to hear your excitement and enjoyment in your voice. Maybe I'll give the game another chance.
What particularly annoyed you might I ask?
Same exact thing happened to me! I still haven’t finished it bleh
I loved it at first, it was new and it was dragon age, but then the sense of something being off just kept building and now I feel like I’m just trudging through the game, and that’s so sad for me!
When I first played inquisition after origins and da2 I couldn’t put inquisition down. I sped through my first playthrough (and 2nd lol) obsessively. Since then I’ve played every game over 10 times (over 15 for origins). But veilguard? I can’t even get through my first playthrough without wanting to go back to inquisition.
I thought I would love this game. I wanted to love it. Maybe I’ll get a second wind? I’m determined to finish at least one playthrough
I’m having fun a bit, but I really do not like Taash. Taash is a complete hypocrite. Hates when they are labeled an idea, but will quickly insult Emmerich for being a “Death Mage”. Taash is very immature. Teenage like.
@@MrPawsPause Yeah, if only they wrote Taash to grow and change over time and develop away from that judgmental tendency. Oh wait, that's exactly what happens.
Absolutely phenomenal review, Ghil. I've been watching your content for years and for the most part, your views of the lore, fandom, theories, etc have been the same as mine. So, hearing you give this review is so relieving for me. It's been such a long wait with such a troubled development at times that I was afraid to get my hopes up, even seeing the bits we have since this summer.
Thank you for this. And thank you for all your years of hard work. As always, I can't wait to see what you have to say about this installment going forward c:
A real review from a real fan i love it.
Been waiting for your take. Thank you!
Emmerich-mancers rise up ‼️
I need that old mage so bad I can't wait for Thursday
"Regret is a big theme and...it sure is."😂 Okay, Regret Demon confirmed.
😂
I just read about the Regret demon in Tevinter Nights… really fascinating way to introduce it.
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review ❤
As someone who somehow pushed Corephyus off a cliff and therefore skipped the final fight, I agree with how underwhelming that boss was lol
Yeah he was a bit of bitch went back and played with some trials on and steam rolled him I was disappointed
Thanks so much for this review, and also thank you so so much for all the work you did with your no-spoiler videos throughout the marketing campaign!
Also the ending to this made me genuinely cry, thank you so much Caitie, I am SO so excited!
Edit: I asked a question in this comment that after a second listen through of this I realise you actually answered lol.
Caitie, I have been following your channel and content since its inception. You (and Jordan) have kept the love for all things Dragon Age (and Bioware) alive in my heart for years, and I cannot express to you how thrilled I am *for you* that you were able to get a review copy and that you loved the game.
I've avoided nearly all pre release content and reviews, but I am making the exception for your review. Your opinion is, honestly, the only one I trust , and I thank you for sharing it. Setting aside one's biases isn't always easy, but I know you're speaking from an honest place in your heart.
I wanted to stop for a second amidst all the excitement and just say thank you for your content, your resilience, your time, and your thoughts. You are a rockstar and an inspiration, and I look forward to all the upcoming Dragon Age discussions and content you will inevitably share with us. So, thank you, Caitie!!
Crying with you at the very end. Such a wonderful review, thank you for the hints of what to expect and where to put out attention to. Big hugs, queen, let’s cry together.
Hey thanks so much for the spoiler free review ! 💜
Oh my god Caitie! I just wanted to listen to some comforting and not too lore heavy dragon age chatter while falling asleep and now I am extremely awake again and also kinda teary. As one of those people who have seen you as basically part of the franchise for a long time now, thank you, this was very good and real.
Also, the Solavellan PSA was genuinely moving, despite me not being a die-hard Solasmancer. It just reminded me that everyone who waited for a meaningful ending for a decade actually got one. Not what I would call a happy ending, but it's huge. And, with all the plot points that were kind of predictable from miles away - I did not anticipate the way that went. Wild.
"setting a bone I didn't know was broken" is such a remarkably poignant and articulate way to summarizing how I feel about Bioware games. Great review Ghil.
I'm happy to hear that the game was so fulfilling for you. It's not much of an exaggeration to say that you and Jordan not only kept my love of the series alive over the past several years but made it grow. I hope that The Veilguard is just as impactful for me when I get the chance to play it too
All I can say is. Dragon age has never been perfect. The fact that people who connect with the world of dragon age think it is worth it means more than a number.
Teared up at the end. Thank you for a beautiful review! Can't wait!!
I felt that solavellan to solavellan moment in my skin my god lmfao ok ok i wont rush!!
I have been a long time follower of your channel and I've eagerly devoured all the lore videos and really just everything. To hear your tone of voice at the end of this video makes me even more eager (if that's even possible) to experience this game for myself. Thank you so much for all your time and dedication to this game series and the world of Thedas and the intricate lore that comes with it. I can't wait to see what else you have to say after game release.
(Warning for lore nerds who dont want to be spoiled, IGN mentioned a place you go to. And like, to anyone else, it wouldn't be a spoiler. But its definitely a significant place that you might not wanna know about.)
For anyone whose concerned about gameplay. I think its reassuring that people who dont care about dragon age the way that I care, liked the game. To me, that means that the gameplay was compelling enough for them to keep playing.
Also, as a side note, I really like the community you fostered. Its nice to go through the comments and see hope and excitement, instead of the cynicism ive seen in other places. Im so so so so so excited for this game and im really happy that you loved it. Im glad I get to share that excitement with other people.
Your content really helped me get through the long wait for this game. This was a wonderful and heartfelt review, I am SO excited to play the game myself. Thank you for everything, I'm looking forward to your future videos :))
Ghil, thank you for uploading. You've helped me connect to a community, and that's awesome. And I'm so so excited to see what Veilguard has in store for us
Yours, Kala and Ashe are the reviews I was waiting for. You're DA fans making content for DA fans, and your review delivers that perfectly. You shouldn't have to "apologize" for making the content your audience follows you for.
And your final words just put the finger in why Morrigan's DAO arc gets to me so much and why I'm so happy she returns again and again to the franchise. So thank you for the free therapy, lol.
Hearing you cry at the end made me start crying
Oh Caitie, you got me tearing up 🥹❤ I remember discovering your channel after DAI when I was hungry for Dragon Age content and eventually being in your streams. You've given this community such great resources and entertainment and it's been gratifying seeing you grow as a creator.
Please know that even though this may feel like an end, it has been a hell of a ride and I for one am excited for this game and the future of your channel ❤
What an incredible review to stumble across I LOVE THIS TAKE 💫
Hey Catie! Been watching your videos for a long time now, what feels like years. I wanted to say thank you for all the passion you put into your videos and this fandom. It's crazy to think we're in the 11th hour before Veilguard's release, but your channel has helped keep the excitement alive. Super excited for DA4 and super excited to see all the new content you'll be able to make after its release. Here's to a few more years! :)
13:47 ☹️I'm bawling my eyes out Katie!! 💛((hearing your voice quiver is all I need to know how moving this game will be for most of us))
Oh man this is so beautiful to hear. I truly can't wait to experience what you did
Hearing you cry at the end really hit home. I am so excited for this game. Your excitement and love for this series reflects my own and your review is the only one I trust at this point
Very grateful for your hard work in this community!!
This was a wonderful review. And now I just want to hug you. Dragon Age helped me through a really awful depression, so I get that connect.
I haven't touched the Dragon Age series for 10 years and didn't really expect a sequel. But I remember a lot of the details and can't wait to see what happens next in Thedas. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, really loved your review!
I'm an hour in and deeply regretting it.
Dialogue and VA work is average.
Thank you so much for supplying us DA lore throughout the years! I've been watching your vids since you started and I'm soo soooo soooo proud and happy for you!
Honestly Caitie, I've been following you and have loved your videos for 10 years and while I'm blooming with excitement for Veilguard, I just feel so happy for you that you got to experience all that. Hoping for many more DA lore years to come!
This is a great review, IMO. You say, "how can I be impartial," but this is a balanced and fair review in my perspective - being a long-term fan doesn't exclude impartiality, and in fact informs a better review.
I've been a fan since Origins and have a similar position to yours with the previous games, and this review is frankly quite informative. You covered DAV's strengths and weak spots fairly and have relayed some important information to fans and newcomers.
For my part, you confirmed what I suspected: that the game has suffered some cuts for time or budget, and that some parts of the story don't have enough breathing room. I'm probably not going to go for the Emmrich romance route but am glad to hear that it's great and seems strongly-written. The length of the game also sounds about right, closer to Origins than to DAI (which bloated a lot with billions of side quests). It's very informative as a whole!
I can hear your excitement throughout, and perhaps hints of bittersweet acceptance of the ending at the end there. Oh boy. This one's a ride, isn't it? The way you talk about the finality of the ending chapter says a lot.
Don't worry about your gameplay review because you used super easy mode for exactly what it's for, that's valid as playing on hard or nightmare. lol
Im typing as i watch this video but like you i have immersed myself in this world. I experienced DAO in 2013 and since then i have been an Avid Dragon Age fan. Whether its what i wanted or not, I've waited 10 years for this this game.
Thank you for being honest! Your review fills my heart with hope so far 🙏🏾
I'm crying, what you said at the end, it resonated with me deeply. Thanks you for this review and sharing your feelings. I am so excited for this game, but I also know I will feel broken at the end of it, knowing it's an end of a big chapter. We've been waiting so long.