Video Game Review: Dragon’s Dogma Dark Arisen

In the vast sea of action RPGs, Capcom's Dragon's Dogma shines as a beacon of innovation and excitement, despite its age and with the excellent looking sequel Dragon’s Dogma 2 set to release in March I figured I’d go back and review the original.

Even years after its release, the game stands as a testament to what happens when game developers dare to dream big and think outside the box albeit with a clearly limited budget.

The Unique Pawn System

Bringing Companions to Life

At the core of Dragon's Dogma is the revolutionary Pawn system. This feature allows players to create and customize a companion who isn't just a follower but a dynamic participant in the world. Pawns learn from your actions, as well as from the collective experiences of the online community, making them invaluable allies in battle and exploration. This system fosters a sense of connection and shared adventure that's rare in single-player games, creating a unique gameplay experience that's both personal and communal.

Combat: A Dance with Dragons and More

The Thrill of the Fight

Combat in Dragon's Dogma is where the game truly excels. Offering a variety of vocations, each with its own set of skills and abilities, the game encourages players to experiment and find their preferred style of play. Whether you're engaging in high-flying battles with griffins or taking on a massive cyclops, the combat is always intense and rewarding. The game's approach to action sets a high bar for fluidity and excitement, making each encounter memorable.

Graphics and Atmosphere

Timeless Visuals with a Touch of Age

While Dragon's Dogma's graphics were quite impressive at its release, by today's standards, they can feel somewhat dated. However, the game's artistic design and the sheer scale of its open world still manage to create an immersive experience. The day-night cycle and dynamic weather system play significant roles in gameplay, making the world feel alive. Though the visuals may not compete with the latest titles, they still possess a charm that complements the game's atmosphere.

Navigating the Story's Twists and Turns

A Complex Tale

The narrative of Dragon's Dogma is ambitious, offering a rich tapestry of lore and intrigue. As the Arisen, players embark on a quest filled with power struggles, betrayal, and mystery. However, the story's progression can sometimes feel confusing, with important details and motivations not always clearly conveyed. Despite these occasional narrative hiccups, the game's story is engaging and adds depth to the world and its characters.

A Precursor to the Likes of Elden Ring

Laying the Groundwork for Future Epics

Playing Dragon's Dogma, it's hard not to see the seeds of what would bloom into modern classics like Elden Ring. From the open-world exploration to the emphasis on player choice and consequence, Dragon's Dogma laid much of the groundwork for the genre's evolution. Its influence can be seen in the way future games would approach world-building, combat, and storytelling, making it a pivotal title in the action RPG landscape.

Despite its few shortcomings, Dragon's Dogma remains a standout title in the action RPG genre. Its innovative Pawn system, exhilarating combat, and ambitious narrative make it a game that's both challenging and rewarding. While the graphics may have aged and the story can be perplexing, the overall experience is one that resonates deeply with players. As a precursor to games like Elden Ring, Dragon's Dogma showcases the potential of the genre and remains a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. In the world of Gransys, adventure awaits at every turn.

I give Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen a solid 8/10