Throughout its history, the Dragon Age franchise has garnered acclaim for its diverse range of companions, and the latest installment, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, continues this tradition with seven unique characters joining Rook in their mission to safeguard Thedas. However, fans had anticipated the return of several beloved characters from previous titles, either as companions or in cameo roles. While some omissions seem logical, others appear to be significant missed opportunities.
[Warning: This article contains spoilers for Dragon Age: The Veilguard.]
Dragon Age: The Veilguard features numerous cameos, showcasing a variety of characters from past games, novels, and comics. From notable former companions like Morrigan and Dorian to lesser-known characters such as Harding, Evka, and Antoine, the game is rich with pre-existing personalities that enhance its immersive world-building. Nonetheless, there are several standout characters whose absence is particularly striking, raising questions about their missed potential to enrich the narrative.
10 Velanna – Dalish Elven Mage
Appears In: Dragon Age: Origins – Awakenings
Velanna, a character often overlooked by fans, boasts a compelling narrative arc despite her single appearance in the Dragon Age: Origins DLC, Awakenings. Initially found at her lowest point after leaving her clan and losing her sister, Velanna’s journey evolves as she teams up with the Grey Wardens to seek justice for her fallen friends. Her complicated relationship with both the Dalish and Grey Wardens could have seamlessly integrated her into The Veilguard, offering unique insights into the tumultuous events surrounding the Evanuris, especially regarding Ghilan’nain’s assault on Weisshaupt. A temporary alliance with her during the siege would have added depth and a fresh perspective.
9 Sigrun – Dwarven Rogue
Appears In: Dragon Age: Origins – Awakenings
Another intriguing character from Awakenings is Sigrun, a casteless dwarf with a contrasting demeanor to Velanna. Known for her upbeat personality and sharp wit, Sigrun was a member of the Legion of the Dead. She is indispensable to the cause of ridding Thedas of Darkspawn following the loss of her battalion. Her presence at Weisshaupt could have provided a valuable guide for Rook, along with potential ties to Harding’s exploration of dwarven lore or Davrin’s quest concerning Wardens’ Callings. As one of the few female dwarven companions, Sigrun’s acknowledgment in The Veilguard would have been both fitting and refreshing.
8 Shale – Golem Warrior
Appears In: Dragon Age: Origins, The Stolen Throne, & Asunder
Shale could also have expanded the narrative through her unique perspective on dwarven culture. First introduced in Dragon Age: Origins via The Stone Prisoner DLC, Shale’s robust form and disdain for birds provided comedic relief. Unraveling her backstory as a dwarf turned golem adds a rich layer to her character. Imagining her engaging with new characters like Harding would have been a delightful encounter, along with discussions on the Titans’ fate. This incorporation could have opened fresh paths in The Veilguard’s plot.
7 Dagna – Dwarven Smith
Appears In: Dragon Age: Origins, Inquisition, & Tevinter Nights
Dagna, first encountered in Origins, has a passion for magic that sets her apart in the dwarven community. As a scholar of the magical arts, including the study of lyrium, Dagna eventually joined the Inquisition and contributed her expertise regarding the Fade. The Veilguard could have utilized her knowledge, especially as Harding grapples with unconventional magic linked to her new lyrium dagger. Dagna’s absence feels like a significant oversight, considering her potential to bridge connections between magic and crafting.
6 Iron Bull – Qunari Warrior
Appears In: Dragon Age: Inquisition
Iron Bull stands out as a fan-favorite companion from Dragon Age: Inquisition, known for his role as the bravado-filled leader of the Chargers. His involvement as a liaison between the Qunari and the Inquisition provided a multifaceted dynamic to the story. In The Veilguard, his presence could have proved pivotal in navigating alliances with groups like the Antivan Crows or the Lords of Fortune. The potential interactions with characters like Taash, particularly regarding dragon-related excitement, would have enriched the narrative significantly.
5 Anders – Human Mage
Appears In: Dragon Age: Origins – Awakenings & Dragon Age 2
Anders, a complex and divisive character, last seen in Dragon Age 2, offers a rich source of conflict and motivation. Initially a runaway mage that morphed into a symbol for mage rights, his subsequent actions in Kirkwall led to significant upheaval. With hints during Inquisition suggesting he might still be alive, his return in The Veilguard could have explored themes of redemption and reconciliation with characters like Lucanis and Spite. Enlisting him through the Grey Wardens could envelop the narrative with deeper emotional stakes.
4 Cole – Human/Spirit Rogue
Appears In: Dragon Age: Asunder & Inquisition
Cole, a uniquely crafted character residing at the intersection of spirit and human, would have contributed fascinating dialogue and interactions in The Veilguard. As he strives for humanity while grappling with his ethereal background, his journey resonates with themes of identity. Introduced into the Crossroads, Cole could function as a guide for characters navigating Solas’ fragmented memories, unearthing new mystical facets of the story. His integration into the game’s dynamic could spark meaningful interactions, particularly with characters like Manfred and Spite.
3 Merrill – Dalish Elven Mage
Appears In: Dragon Age: Origins & Dragon Age 2
Merrill, another Dalish mage large in the hearts of fans, contrasts Velanna’s personality. Her deep roots in blood magic and attempts to repair an eluvian make her a tragic yet intriguing figure. As the significance of eluvians grows in The Veilguard, one can’t help but wonder how Merrill could have enhanced the story, potentially mentoring Bellara or serving as an ally to Solas. This absence hints at unfulfilled narrative threads that could have linked the two characters, further enriching the exploration of Blight corruption within the Crossroads.
2 Fenris – Elven Warrior
Appears In: Dragon Age 2, Blue Wraith & Dark Fortress
Initially debuting in Dragon Age 2, Fenris’ identity as an escaped Tevinter slave marked him as a symbol of strength and survival. His evolving relationship with magic—especially with mages—creates fertile ground for compelling storytelling. If Fenris had resurfaced in The Veilguard, his connection to the Shadow Dragons could have facilitated poignant discussions around his past experiences and present sentiments towards Veil Jumpers. However, logistical challenges concerning his character model have created unfortunate barriers to his return.
1 Zevran Arainai – Elvan Rogue
Appears In: Dragon Age: Origins & Dragon Age 2
Among all the potential returning characters, Zevran Arainai stood as a fan-favorite with high expectations of appearing in The Veilguard. Originally an assassin sent to eliminate the Warden, Zevran’s unexpected alliance with the Grey Wardens led him to carve a path distinct from the Crows. As the game delves into the machinations of the Crows, his narrative could have offered contrasting perspectives on their inner workings and Zevran’s own challenges as a rogue. While his absence leaves fans wanting, the hope lingers that he may yet return in upcoming Dragon Age titles.
Source: David Gaider/BlueSky
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