Major choices and consequences in Dragon Age Inquisition are widely recognized for shaping its branching narrative structure. Players are constantly asked to make decisions that influence both the story and the world of Thedas. These choices are not only cosmetic; they directly affect politics, religion, character loyalty, and the overall legacy of the Inquisitor. This article explores the most significant decisions in the game. It explains how they impact immediate gameplay and the long-term narrative as revealed in the epilogue.
Electing a New Divine and the Political Direction of the Chantry
One of the most impactful choices comes after the death of Divine Justinia. Players indirectly influence who becomes the new Divine, with Leliana, Cassandra, or Vivienne as the main candidates. Each represents a unique vision for the Chantry’s role in Thedas. Leliana supports radical reform, Cassandra prefers a cautious balance of tradition and progress, while Vivienne stands firmly for hierarchy and strict order.
Each candidate changes the way the Chantry interacts with society. A reformed Chantry under Leliana may alienate conservatives but offer more tolerance to marginalized groups. Cassandra’s balanced leadership helps stabilize the institution, though it may lack boldness in enacting change. Vivienne ensures continuity and strength of tradition but risks alienating reformists and mages. These paths highlight how religion and politics intertwine within the game.
The epilogue showcases the long-term consequences of this decision. With Leliana, the Chantry evolves but faces resistance from traditionalists. Cassandra creates a stronger and more united institution, while Vivienne maintains order but can turn the Chantry into an even more rigid force. Companion reactions add further weight. Cassandra shows pride if chosen, Leliana feels conflicted depending on her journey, and Vivienne celebrates the preservation of her ideals.
The Grey Wardens’ Future after the Battle of Adamant Fortress
At Adamant Fortress, the Inquisitor determines whether the Grey Wardens should remain a functioning order or be disbanded for their dangerous use of blood magic. Keeping them allows their continued defense against potential future Blights. However, it also raises questions about their trustworthiness. Disbanding them eliminates an immediate threat but leaves Thedas unprotected in case of another Blight.
If preserved, the Wardens work to redeem themselves, rebuilding their ranks while still facing suspicion. If disbanded, their absence is strongly felt in the epilogue, with only fragments of their legend surviving. The decision also affects how characters like Alistair, Stroud, or Loghain end their arcs. These outcomes create powerful narrative moments depending on who appears during the quest.
Blackwall’s perspective adds another layer of importance. As a Warden himself, he reacts intensely to the player’s decision. He may find hope in the order’s redemption or despair if they are dissolved. This choice emphasizes that the fate of an entire legendary group rests on the Inquisitor’s judgment. It reinforces the theme of heavy responsibility throughout the story.
Choosing Between Mages and Templars as Primary Allies
One of the earliest and most impactful decisions in Dragon Age: Inquisition is whether to ally with the rebel mages or the loyalist templars. Choosing the mages grants access to powerful spellcasters but risks instability. Their rebellion is marked by desperation and ties to demonic influence. Supporting the Templars provides a disciplined military force, but it also strengthens an organization many see as oppressive and authoritarian.
The consequences appear throughout the story and in the epilogue. They show how major choices and consequences in Dragon Age Inquisition redefine political stability and the balance of power in Thedas. This decision shapes not only the composition of the Inquisition’s forces but also how the world views the Inquisitor’s leadership. Whichever path players choose, the ripple effects continue to influence later missions, companion approval, and the closing state of the world.
Companion reactions highlight the difficulty of the choice:
- Solas supports freeing the Mages, emphasizing freedom and justice.
- Vivienne strongly prefers aligning with the Templars to maintain order.
- Cassandra respects the choice but worries about long-term consequences.
This decision creates tension in party dynamics. Approval ratings shift and new conversations open depending on the path chosen.
Managing Companion Loyalty and Relationship Outcomes
Companions are not only allies in combat but also characters whose loyalty and trust depend on player choices. Each companion has distinct values. Cassandra values honor and duty, Dorian seeks acceptance and truth, Iron Bull grapples with loyalty to the Qun, and Sera prioritizes freedom and rebellion. The Inquisitor’s decisions affect whether they feel respected or alienated.
Some companions may leave the Inquisition if their beliefs are consistently ignored. For instance, Iron Bull’s fate diverges dramatically depending on whether the Inquisitor sides with the Qunari. He may remain loyal or betray the Inquisition entirely. These branching possibilities add emotional weight to every major decision.
Romance options deepen these outcomes further. Successfully pursuing relationships alters personal epilogues and creates stronger bonds. Characters like Dorian find hope in supportive choices. These decisions shape not only their personal growth but also how their homelands are portrayed in the epilogue. Such elements ensure that the story is not only about politics but also about deeply personal journeys.
The Revelation of Solas as the Dread Wolf
Perhaps the most shocking twist in Dragon Age: Inquisition is the revelation that Solas, the quiet elven apostate, is actually Fen’Harel, the Dread Wolf of elven legend. This revelation reframes many of his earlier conversations. Players are forced to reconsider their cryptic warnings and deep knowledge of ancient elven lore. The discovery is not just a personal betrayal. It also sets the stage for larger conflicts in future installments of the series.
This illustrates that major choices and consequences in Dragon Age Inquisition go beyond institutional politics. They touch deeply on themes of trust, betrayal, and the shaping of future conflicts. The revelation creates anticipation for future Dragon Age titles. It also makes players reflect on how their treatment of Solas throughout the game affects their perception of his true identity.
This choice underlines the idea that personal bonds are just as impactful as political ones. The betrayal of a close ally creates a lingering sense of unfinished business. It sets the stage for future titles in the franchise.
The Lasting Impact of Choice on the Legacy of the Inquisition
Dragon Age: Inquisition distinguishes itself by making each decision carry weight, whether political or personal. From shaping the Chantry’s doctrine to determining the Grey Wardens’ survival, players are constantly reminded that their actions define the fate of Thedas. These branching paths encourage replayability. Each playthrough offers unique outcomes that keep the game fresh.
Major choices and consequences in Dragon Age Inquisition highlight how every decision, from politics to personal bonds, shapes a unique legacy for each player. These choices reinforce the sense of responsibility carried by the Inquisitor and ensure that every playthrough feels meaningful. In the end, the game’s impact comes from how actions define both the story of Thedas and the player’s lasting mark upon it.