It seems, from early reports that Dragon Age 2, the upcoming Bioware RPG will be getting a few console-oriented refinements – that may make the game a little more like Mass effect.

The sequel won’t have the traditional dialogue tree – replacing it with the conversation wheel as seen in Mass Effect. This is to apparently make the conversation more “real-time.” Hmmm…

According to Kotaku’s report on a Gameinformer article "there’s a slight change, though; rather than basing your answers on their position on the wheel, the ‘hub’ will now clearly indicate what tone your response will be; anger, flirting, etc."

Console combat will also be getting an overhaul. "Rather than try to mimic the PC experience on consoles Dragon Age II has a battle system more tailored to the strengths of the PS3 and 360." The PC version, though, will retain the classic "strategic combat" seen in Origins.

Much like Mass Effect, players will also be able to import their save games from the first game, which will determine how events will unfold in the sequel.

This might be a little risky. Mass Effect – an incredible game – watered down the RPG elements producing something more akin to a straight up action shooter, but I don’t think RPG fans will take too kindly to the same happening in Dragon Age.

What do you think? Is this a case of tailoring a game for console audiences, or dumbing down a genre for people intimidated by keyboards?

Source : Kotaku