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While the graphics have improved since the first game and the animations and cinematic sequences are all up to Bioware standards (especially when running Direct X11) there are few graphical issues when it comes to the smaller things such as water. I just feel that with games like the highly anticipated The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim that has already promised water flow movement based on weather and conditions, Dragon Age II doesn’t bring anything new to the table.

DirectX9/X11 comparison image. (Click to enlarge)

It seems that Bioware has worked on a give and take system with Dragon Age II. Just when you think they have given you something new and improved like the Mass Effected dialogue system (while dialogue trees still keep the “good” and “bad” paths, the middle option has been replaced with sarcasm) and a character that actually has some personality, they scale back the character creation.

But to be honest, the voice acting was a mixed bag. The male voices are well done and do a brilliant job at bringing the characters to life. However, on the flip side, the female voices seem flat and boring.

Another DirectX9/X11 comparison image. (Click to enlarge)

Thankfully Dragon Age II pulls it back when it comes to the ambience and music. Conversations grow louder as you approach, battles fade away as you escape and blend brilliantly with the huge range of musical scores. The sound as a whole is just what we have come to expect from Bioware and it really plays a big part in the overall gaming experience.

Unfortunately what we have also come to expect from Bioware are long loading screens. No matter what system you are playing on, whether it is starting the game up, travelling from one area to the next or even a simple save, loading screens are your new annoying friend.

Last Updated: March 22, 2011

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Dragon Age II
7.5

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