The Hinterlands are the best part of Dragon Age: Inquisition.
Despite their questionable reputation, the Hinterlands are the best area in Dragon Age: Inquisition, and I'm tired of pretending otherwise.
After a long wait of nearly ten years, fans of the Dragon Age series are just a week away from enjoying the new installment, Dragon Age: The Veilguard. The anticipation has been intense, especially following the memorable experience that Dragon Age: Inquisition provided in 2014, which is considered one of the best medieval fantasy gaming experiences prior to Elden Ring. This sequel promises to take players deeper than ever into the world of Thedas.
During this waiting period, many fans have dealt with frustration, nostalgically recalling the names "Joplin" and "Morrison." However, they have maintained their passion for the series, replaying Inquisition over and over again. It is undeniable that Dragon Age: Inquisition is a great game, awarded Game of the Year at the 2014 awards, although critiques often arise regarding its beginning, particularly concerning the vastness of the Hinterlands, which some find tedious. Despite this, many defenders believe that this area is a true highlight of the game.
Set in a fictional medieval world called Thedas, the story unfolds against a backdrop of civil war between mages and templars. A conclave intended to negotiate peace ends in chaos when an explosion causes a rift in the sky, known as The Breach, which lets forth malevolent creatures. The player, in the role of a hero capable of closing this rift, joins the Inquisition, an organization seeking to restore order.
The success of an RPG lies in solid, engaging world-building. Dragon Age: Inquisition excels in this aspect from the start, with the Hinterlands providing significant immersion and allowing players to experience the lives of the inhabitants of Thedas. Not only does the devastation caused by the conflict between mages and templars become apparent, but also the resilience of the people who continue to fight against adversity.
This vast territory also serves as a hands-on tutorial for players, offering accessible combat that increases in difficulty. The Hinterlands present the perfect blend of simple challenges and greater hurdles, allowing players to familiarize themselves with their abilities while interacting with their companions. The dynamics between characters are among the most enjoyable aspects of the game, enriching the experience with humorous dialogues and personal stories that make the environment feel alive.
The area is also filled with surprises and secrets. You may find yourself facing demons while carrying out seemingly trivial quests or discovering hidden doors that lead to unexplored territories. Unlike places that can be frustrating, such as The Hissing Wastes or The Fallow Mire, the Hinterlands feel vibrant and steeped in history.
Although Dragon Age: Inquisition has its imperfections and is critiqued for its excessive ambition, the Hinterlands symbolize this duality. It can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of quests, especially for those trying to complete everything, but this complexity only reinforces the authenticity of the world. The quests offer both lighthearted moments and tense situations, reflecting a mix of real-life experiences.
Replaying Dragon Age: Inquisition allows players to discover new nuances in Thedas. Over the years, the experience refreshes, enabling players to immerse themselves in an ideal balance of action and exploration. While other areas may become monotonous, the Hinterlands always present themselves as an immersive refuge, promoting exploration and appreciation to the fullest.
Despite its criticisms, the Hinterlands fulfill their purpose by offering a deep insight into a high-fantasy world. Although their extent may sometimes seem overwhelming, the richness of experiences they provide is worthwhile. Ultimately, they are a place to get lost and fully enjoy what it means to play an RPG.
