Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen

I am extremely happy to see this title come to GOG. There is a surprisingly huge number of people, despite being fans of the genre that haven't even heard of this RPG. So, let me try not to reduce this review to 'just trust me' and give you some reasons to why you should definitely give it a try. The main thing this game does well is combat. Not only is the combat fun and responsive, but it is also extremely versatile, with vocations from the classic fighter or mage, to fun hybrids like magic archer or mystic knight adding hours upon hours of you never getting tired of the combat because as soon as you grow bored of a class you can switch it up and continue playing as something completely different. Being a fighter feels responsive, with blocking similar to Dark Souls, rewarding the perfect block time, while being a sorcerer feels extremely powerful and cool. No class doesn't have that power or ability that makes it unique and worth a try. This is hands down the best combat experience I've had in an RPG that allows for multiple classes, no contest. Many would claim that the game has a weak story, and while it is true that the story can get lost, similar to an elder scrolls game, I would argue that the story shouldn't be dismissed so easily. There are some powerful scenes here, especially during the later part of the game, and the expansion that's now packed with Dark Arisen makes the story dark and cool once again, despite the fact that you'll probably keep playing the game for the awesome loot and combat. Character creation allows you to create your character's face and body to your liking, as well as your main companion that will follow you throughout your journey. You can also recruit up to two more 'pawns' that if you are online can be made from other players! I am unfortunately running out of characters here, and there are so many other things I want to bring up for this game, but just know this; it's worth your attention, and especially at its price.

Even in 2024 a solid game, I bought it in a sale and I don't regret it. Solid character creation and the skills feel good to use. Sometimes it may seem a bit clunky, but overall really nice. If you are looking for a decent game, I'd recommend getting it on sale.

The game is quite good, nothing to add to what has been already written. Even today it still rocks, with somewhat outdated graphics but great playability. Maybe there are too much quests though, sometimes you can get lost. Anyway, main issue here is the "server non available" issue when resting. Your pawn (a companion) is supposed then to be uploaded to the server and other players can get it ; the experience that he will accumulate will be brought back next time you login. That's not working and it is very well known. I can accept that for the discounted price I paid, but the worst is the waiting time (30 sec) every time you rest and game tries to access the server. I wouldn't hope this will get fixed.

The game is damn good, not a lot of Roleplaying but it has great Action and enough character building. The Story is geniunely interesting although somewhat poorly told, NPCs themselves are rarely interesting. The few musical themes are simply phenomenal and are used with perfect timing, it sends shivers down my spine. Combat is really fun and willl only get better over time but in Bitterblack Isle (DLC) the poor balance between classess will lead to issues for those using Physical Melee vocations. World is too big and, at times, empty or littered with repetitve enemies. The main quest is a bit slow and makes you travel across half of said world way too often. Sidequests are only interesting when they add involve new bosses. Bitterblack isle has none of the pacing and story issues of the main game and, when the enemies are designed with melee in mind, it's the peak of Dragon Dogma's gameplay.

Pick this up on sale. Note that it is ported from cosole, but they did a good job so it didint affect game play much. Note, this isnt multiplayer, it has a sytem to share "pawns" online, but no player interactions. IDK if it is worth the full price, but for under 10 dollars, I am more than satisfied. The game is reasonably pretty and hits the rpg adventure itch I needed to scratch.