Understanding Shale's Background
Shale is not your typical party member. Once a living dwarf, Shale was transformed into a golem as part of a tragic series of events. This transformation has shaped Shale's personality and worldview, making it imperative for players to pay attention to the golem's perspectives while making decisions throughout the game.
The Importance of Approval Ratings
Approval ratings in Dragon Age: Origins significantly influence the dynamics of the party. Each character has their own set of values and beliefs, and how the player interacts with the world can either increase or decrease their approval rating.
- High Approval: Increasing Shale's approval can lead to:
- Unique dialogue options that reveal more about Shale's backstory.
- Potentially influencing the outcomes of certain quests.
- Gaining access to powerful abilities or skills that Shale can utilize in combat.
- Low Approval: Conversely, low approval can result in:
- Less effective combat performance.
- Negative interactions and dialogue, which can detract from the overall experience.
- The possibility of Shale leaving the party if approval drops too low.
How to Increase Shale's Approval
Increasing Shale's approval involves making choices that align with Shale's values and preferences. Below are some effective strategies for boosting Shale's approval rating throughout the game.
1. Dialogue Choices
Interacting with Shale through dialogue is one of the primary ways to influence approval. Here are some tips:
- Praise Strength: Shale appreciates strength and determination. Compliments about Shale's power or effectiveness in battle can lead to increased approval.
- Respect Golem Nature: Shale has a deep disdain for those who view golems as mere tools. Thus, avoiding dialogue options that belittle or objectify golems will help maintain a positive relationship.
- Sarcasm and Wit: Shale has a sarcastic sense of humor. Engaging in witty banter and acknowledging Shale's humor can enhance approval.
2. Quest Decisions
Certain quests in Dragon Age: Origins can directly affect Shale's approval rating. Here are some quests to keep an eye on:
- The Stone Prisoner: This quest is essential for recruiting Shale. How you handle the quest and the choices made can significantly impact approval.
- Interactions with Other Characters: Be mindful of how other characters treat Shale. Standing up for Shale during dialogues or conflicts with other party members can increase approval.
- Finding Shale's Lost Memories: If players explore Shale's past and help discover lost memories, it can lead to a substantial boost in approval.
3. Combat Preferences
In battle, Shale has specific preferences that can impact approval. Players should:
- Utilize Shale Effectively: Make sure to utilize Shale’s unique abilities in combat. Shale excels in tanking and dealing damage, so players should ensure Shale is in the thick of battle.
- Avoid Unnecessary Risks: Shale disapproves of reckless behavior, particularly when it involves endangering party members. Keeping Shale safe and ensuring a strategic approach to battles will contribute to a positive approval rating.
Consequences of Approval Ratings
Understanding the consequences of Shale’s approval rating can help players strategize better throughout the game.
High Approval Consequences
- Unique Skills and Abilities: Shale can unlock special abilities that enhance combat effectiveness, benefiting the entire party.
- In-depth Character Development: High approval leads to richer dialogues and character development, allowing players to engage more thoroughly with Shale's story.
- Final Battle Support: In critical moments, Shale may provide unique support during the final battle, offering advantages that are only available with high approval.
Low Approval Consequences
- Potential Departure: If Shale's approval rating falls too low, there is a risk that Shale could leave the party, which would not only mean losing a powerful ally but also a significant part of the storyline.
- Limited Dialogue: Players may miss out on engaging and enriching conversations, limiting their understanding of Shale's character arc.
- Combat Ineffectiveness: A low approval rating can lead to reduced combat effectiveness, making encounters more challenging.
Tips for Maintaining Approval
Maintaining a high approval rating with Shale requires ongoing attention throughout the game. Here are some practical tips:
- Regularly engage in conversations with Shale to assess approval levels.
- Monitor decisions that affect other party members, ensuring Shale's preferences are considered.
- Revisit past dialogue choices to ensure they align with Shale’s values.
- Be strategic in combat, utilizing Shale's strengths while minimizing risks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dragon Age Origins Shale Approval plays a significant role in shaping the player's journey through Thedas. By understanding Shale's background, preferences, and the implications of approval ratings, players can foster a positive relationship with this unique character. Engaging thoughtfully with dialogue choices, quest decisions, and combat strategies will not only enhance the overall gameplay experience but also lead to richer storytelling and character development. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned veteran, mastering Shale's approval is a rewarding aspect of the Dragon Age: Origins experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shale's approval rating in Dragon Age: Origins?
Shale's approval rating can range from -100 to +100, with higher approval unlocking specific dialogue options and abilities.
How can I increase Shale's approval in Dragon Age: Origins?
You can increase Shale's approval by making choices that align with her views, such as supporting the destruction of the Ash Wraiths and showing respect for her status as a golem.
Does Shale's approval affect any quests in Dragon Age: Origins?
While Shale's approval does not directly impact major quests, higher approval can unlock unique dialogue and enhance her combat effectiveness.
What happens if Shale's approval drops to -100?
If Shale's approval drops to -100, she may refuse to follow the player's commands and could potentially leave the party.
Can Shale's approval be influenced by party composition?
Yes, the presence of certain characters in your party can influence Shale's approval, as some characters have conflicting ideologies with her.
What are the key moments to influence Shale's approval positively?
Key moments include choosing to support her desire to confront her past, agreeing with her views on the fate of the dwarves, and avoiding actions that would disrespect her nature as a golem.
Is there a maximum approval level for Shale in Dragon Age: Origins?
Yes, the maximum approval level for Shale is +100, which unlocks her ultimate ability and special conversations.
Are there any significant dialogues tied to Shale's approval?
Yes, higher approval leads to significant dialogues that reveal more about Shale's backstory and her feelings on being a golem.
What happens if I ignore Shale's approval entirely?
Ignoring Shale's approval may result in her becoming less effective in battle and missing out on deeper story elements related to her character.
