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Developers: Capcom, QLOC
Initial Release Date: April 23, 2013
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
Genres: Fighting Game, Action Role-Playing Game, Adventure Game, Shooter
Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen is an expansion of Dragon's Dogma, adding a new questline and the region of Bitterblack Isle in the nation of Gransys. Along with this, there are additional skill upgrades, monsters, weapons, and armor. The game follows the journey of the Arisen (the protagonist) who encounters a dragon at the beginning of the game. Confusion sets in as this tale follows the story of an earlier Arisen before us. Our story starts when a dragon emerges through the rift, descending upon the Town of Cassardis where we live. The dragon rips out our heart, and as we pass out, we are marked as the Arisen, destined to slay the dragon!
As the Arisen, we are chosen to save the world alongside our Pawns. The game has multiple endings that connect to its sequel, Dragon’s Dogma 2. There are four unique endings, depending on how you progress through the main quest and side quests. Unlike many games, there’s no pinpoint marker on the map for quests—you need to read the description, listen to NPCs, and pay attention to your surroundings. Your Pawns will remind you of the mission too. Along the way, you’ll encounter political conspiracies that require solving in order to fulfill your destiny.
The game features a Vocation (class) system where specific weapons are tied to different classes. The basic Vocations are Fighter, Strider, and Mage. As you level up, you can unlock Hybrid Vocations, which are exclusive to the Arisen. Pawns can also change their Vocation based on your playstyle. Hybrid Vocations include Warrior, Assassin, Ranger, Magick Archer, Sorcerer, and Mystic Knight. Personally, I love Mystic Knight for its ability to tank and cast magic while buffing at the same time. Choose your Vocation wisely!
Items and equipment are crucial to gaining passive bonuses and buffs for your Arisen. Exploring the world will reward you with rare items and gear to suit your character build and playstyle.
One of the unique features of Dragon’s Dogma is the ability to grab and climb enemies during combat. I often climb onto a Cyclops’ head to stab its eye, making it stagger before attacking its legs to topple it. This mechanic made combat feel dynamic and satisfying! However, the first time I encountered a dragon, I died. The dragon kept flying, and as a Fighter, I had to rely on my Pawns—who were a Strider, Mage, and Fighter like myself. We tried to climb the dragon’s wings to stop it from flying, but it had a huge health bar, and I eventually ran out of healing items. A valuable lesson: level up and pick the right Vocation before taking on a dragon!
Before I finished the main story, I took on the Dark Arisen DLC, which takes place on the cursed island of Bitterblack Isle, located outside Gransys. The final boss is in the deepest level of the dungeon, and you'll face terrifying new enemies while discovering powerful treasures. Be warned: only high-level Arisen should attempt this dungeon, as the enemies here are strong and relentless!
The game’s world is fun to explore, giving off the feel of a classic ARPG. It’s like stepping into a medieval fantasy film with traditional lore and adventure. Each area of the map has its own unique rewards and treasures waiting to be found. What are you waiting for? Explore the world of Dragon’s Dogma and fulfill your destiny as the Arisen!