Act 1 Companions

Varric

Varric is arguably the most easygoing of Hawke’s companions. You really need to be a thoroughbred bastard to invite his regular disapproval.

• He responds well to banter and relaxed humor. Unlike most other companions, Varric isn’t defined by a personal crusade or all-pervading belief. He doesn’t mind situations where individuals are seeking enrichment in ways that won’t necessarily harm others. His silver tongue can be called into action to mediate peaceful solutions in a number of situations.

• Uniquely, Varric has a fixed weapon: Bianca, a crossbow that increases in power as he gains successive levels. Functioning exclusively as an archer, he can offer a potent combination of AoE assaults and debilitating attacks that offer your party an interesting tactical edge. See page 184 for further details.

Anders

First encountered in Dragon Age: Origins – Awakening, Anders is an apostate (a mage who refuses to submit to the Circle of Magi) and an erstwhile Grey Warden.

• Anders is an emotional character. He won’t respond well if you reprimand him or if you are anything but committed in potential romantic interactions.

• Anders is inflexibly vociferous in his opposition to the treatment of mages in Kirkwall. That said, he adopts a rather less compassionate stance towards those who dabble in blood magic or involve themselves with demonic entities. Condoning such activities will anger him.

• Unless you intend to have Hawke perform this function, Anders is the companion best suited to the support healer role.

Merrill

If you did not choose the mage class for Hawke, you may find that Merrill represents your party’s best choice for destructive magical damage. For advice on possible developmental paths for the Dalish mage, turn to page 185.

• As with Anders and Bethany, Merrill will disapprove if you condone or facilitate the oppression of mages.

• Ruthless behavior upsets her. Merrill is a pure-hearted creature, despite her propensity for consorting with demons, so those who favor a “might makes right” approach to interactions with others will struggle to maintain a harmonious friendship.

• Merrill does not cope well with criticism or condemnation. To establish and nurture a friendship (or, for that matter, romance), take an interest in her views and offer support whenever you can.