Rated Excellent Based on 491 Reviews
In a world filled with popular blockbuster games, there are often hidden gems that slip under the radar of many gamers. Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen for Windows is one such game, offering an enchanting and immersive experience that deserves to be discovered. Originally released for consoles in 2013, this game received critical acclaim but didn't receive the attention it truly deserved. Thanks to its arrival on Steam in 2016, a whole new audience can now embark on this epic adventure. In this review, we'll delve into the captivating world of Dragon's Dogma, exploring its gameplay, story, visuals, and more. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised!
Gameplay
Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen delivers a refreshing and engaging gameplay experience that blends the best elements of action RPGs and open-world exploration. From the moment you step foot in the mystical realm of Gransys, you'll be captivated by its vastness and intricate design. As the Arisen, a chosen hero destined to battle fearsome creatures known as "the dragon," you'll embark on a quest filled with danger and discovery.
The game's combat system is its strongest aspect. It offers a wide variety of classes to choose from, each with its own unique abilities and playstyle. Whether you prefer the agility of a Strider, the brute force of a Fighter, or the mystical powers of a Mage, Dragon's Dogma caters to your preferred combat style. The battles are intense, demanding strategic thinking and precise execution. Climbing onto massive beasts and striking their weak points is an exhilarating experience that adds depth to the combat mechanics.
One of the standout features of Dragon's Dogma is the Pawn system. Pawns are AI-controlled companions who accompany you on your journey. They offer invaluable assistance in battles, providing support, healing, and tactical advice. The best part is that you can hire and customize your main Pawn as well as recruit two additional Pawns created by other players online. This adds a unique social aspect to the game, fostering a sense of community among players.
Story and Quests
While Dragon's Dogma's story may not be its strongest aspect, it still manages to hold its own. The game introduces you to a world where darkness looms, and the fate of humanity hangs in the balance. As the Arisen, your mission is to seek out and vanquish the mighty dragon who has brought chaos to the land. Along the way, you'll encounter various factions, intriguing characters, and dark secrets that slowly unravel the mysteries of Gransys.
The quests in Dragon's Dogma offer a good balance of main storyline progression and optional side activities. From slaying mythical creatures to rescuing villagers from menacing foes, each quest feels unique and impactful. The game rewards exploration, as hidden treasures and secrets are scattered throughout the vast open world. However, it's worth noting that some quests may feel repetitive, requiring you to revisit familiar locations or face similar enemies. Nonetheless, the overall quest design is enjoyable and keeps you invested in the narrative.
Visuals and Sound
Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen's visuals may not match the standards set by more recent AAA titles, but they still hold up well. The game features a richly detailed world, filled with lush forests, towering mountains, and eerie caves. The character models are intricately designed, and the monsters you encounter are impressively animated. However, the graphics can feel a bit dated at times, with textures and effects that don't reach the same level of polish as modern games.
On the other hand, the game's sound design is exceptional. The soundtrack perfectly complements the epic nature of your adventures, with sweeping orchestral pieces that intensify during battles and moments of high drama. The voice acting is generally solid, though some characters may fall flat or lack depth. Nonetheless, the audio elements of Dragon's Dogma contribute to the overall immersion and enhance the atmospheric experience.
Bottom Line
Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen for Windows is an underrated gem that many gamers missed upon its initial release. With its arrival on Steam, it's time for this hidden treasure to shine. The game's engaging gameplay, captivating world, and unique Pawn system make it a must-play for fans of action RPGs. While the story may not reach the same heights as some of its contemporaries, the combat, quests, and social aspect more than make up for it.
With its vast open world, intense battles, and the ability to share Pawns with other players, Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen offers countless hours of enjoyment. It may not boast the latest cutting-edge visuals, but the game's rich atmosphere and immersive audio design compensate for any graphical shortcomings.
