Beginner's Tips for Dragon Age: Origins

Dragon Age: Origins is much different from other console gaming RPGs. Instead of having a linear storyline and prescribed dialog, you have a lot more control over your character in this Bioware video game. Since it isn't what most players are used to, you may get stuck worrying about options or having a hard time in battle.

If you're a beginner to Dragon Age: Origins and you don't want to make any rookie mistakes, there are certain aspects of the game you'll need to pay attention to.

Use Quick Heal Often

Your quick menu comes stocked with a quick heal option by default. For instance, press the B button if playing the Xbox 360 version while in a battle to use one of your healing poultices. As long as you have healing items in your inventory, you can use Quick Heal.

Has Quick Heal disappeared from your menu? Start the radial menu by pressing the L2 button for the PS3 or the left trigger (LT) button on the Xbox 360 controller. At the very bottom of the menu is the Quick Heal option. Hover over this and press the button you want to map it to. The Quick Heal option will be back in your menu.

Worry About Your Party

Dragon Age: Origins lets you control one player during battle while the rest of your party handles themselves, making their own battle decisions. Don't get too comfortable with this, though. If you're not careful, party members may not heal in time and will die during battle. To prevent this, watch your party's health points during every fight. If you notice someone getting low on health, select that player by pressing the L1 or R1 button on the PS3 controller or LB and RB for the Xbox 360. This will highlight each character and let you gain control of their actions. Once you have them under control, hit the Quick Heal button to raise their health. Now you're free to go back to controlling your main character without worrying about losing the battle.

Remember Replayability

You'll be presented with a lot of choices and options when playing through Dragon Age: Origins. You can decide if a character joins your party or if you want to start a romantic relationship with someone. You can also decide if you're nice to people or if you want to be a rough, mean character. If you're having trouble making these decisions, just remember that Dragon Age: Origins can be played through again when you're done with this playthrough. Make your decision now and know that you can always do something different the next time you play.