"Dragon Age: Awakening" is an expansion pack for the critically acclaimed role-playing game "Dragon Age: Origins." This expansion introduces new characters, storylines, and gameplay mechanics, enriching the experience of both new and returning players. One of the fascinating aspects of "Dragon Age: Awakening" is the ability for players to gift items to their companions, which can strengthen relationships and unlock unique dialogue options. This guide will explore the various gifts available, their effects on companion relationships, and tips for maximizing your gifting strategy.
Understanding Gifts in Dragon Age: Awakening
In "Dragon Age: Awakening," giving gifts to companions is a significant way to increase your approval rating with them. Each character has specific preferences, and gifting the right item can lead to valuable rewards, including new quests, character development, and even romance options. Understanding which gifts are best suited for each companion is key to fostering positive relationships.
How Gifts Affect Companion Relationships
Companions in "Dragon Age: Awakening" have unique personalities and backgrounds, which influence their preferences for gifts. When you give a companion a gift they like or love, their approval rating increases, allowing you to gain their trust and unlock additional content. Conversely, giving a gift they dislike can decrease their approval rating, potentially leading to conflicts and missed opportunities.
Types of Gifts
Gifts can be categorized into several types, each resonating differently with companions. Here is a breakdown of the main categories:
- Personal Gifts: Items that reflect the companion's backstory or interests.
- General Gifts: More neutral items that can appeal to multiple companions.
- Special Gifts: Unique items that are often tied to specific quests or lore.
Gift Guide for Companions
Below is a detailed list of companions and their preferred gifts, along with tips for maximizing your approval with them.
1. Alistair
- Preferred Gifts:
- Trophy from the Battle of Ostagar: A significant memento from Alistair's past.
- A Good Book: Literature he enjoys.
- Any item related to his noble heritage.
- Tips:
- Alistair responds well to gifts that remind him of his past and his status as a Grey Warden. Focus on personal gifts that reflect his history.
2. Morrigan
- Preferred Gifts:
- Dragon Egg: A rare and valuable item that resonates with her heritage.
- Books on dark arts: She appreciates knowledge and power.
- Figurines: Particularly of creatures or beings of interest.
- Tips:
- Morrigan values independence and strength. Gifts that enhance her sense of self or power will be well received.
3. Wynne
- Preferred Gifts:
- A Silver Chain: Represents her past and connections.
- Books on healing and magic: Enhances her knowledge and craft.
- Personal items from her past.
- Tips:
- Wynne appreciates gifts that reflect her role as a healer and mentor. Items that connect her to her past will earn you extra points.
4. Oghren
- Preferred Gifts:
- Strong Drink: Alcoholic beverages are always a hit.
- A Good Axe: He is a warrior at heart.
- Personal items related to his past struggles.
- Tips:
- Oghren enjoys a good laugh and anything that appeals to his rugged nature. Gifts that resonate with his personality will be most successful.
5. Shale
- Preferred Gifts:
- Gems and precious stones: She appreciates items of value.
- Artifacts of the Dwarven culture: Relates to her own background.
- Unique mechanical items.
- Tips:
- Shale enjoys gifts that reflect her unique status as a golem and her connection to the Dwarven culture.
6. Anders
- Preferred Gifts:
- Books on justice and freedom: He is passionate about rights and equality.
- Healing supplies: Reflects his nature as a healer.
- Personal items related to his past struggles.
- Tips:
- Anders will respond positively to gifts that relate to his ideals of justice and freedom.
General Gift List
In addition to the specific gifts preferred by companions, there are several general gifts that can be given to any character. Here’s a list of items that are more universally appreciated:
- Flowers: A simple and lovely gift.
- Jewelry: Rings and necklaces are often well-received.
- Crafted items: Unique weapons or armor that show your thoughtfulness.
- Good Quality Drinks: Alcoholic beverages that can be enjoyed by all.
Strategies for Maximizing Gift-Giving
To make the most of your gifting experience in "Dragon Age: Awakening," consider the following strategies:
1. Pay Attention to Conversations
During dialogues, companions will often drop hints about their interests and preferences. Take note of their comments, as these can guide you in selecting the right gifts.
2. Save Before Gifting
If you are unsure about a gift’s effect, save your game before presenting it. This way, you can reload if the gift does not yield the desired approval increase.
3. Balance Gift-Giving
While it may be tempting to focus on a single companion, it's essential to spread your gifts around. Balancing your relationships can unlock different quest lines and provide a richer experience.
4. Use Gifts to Enhance Character Development
Gifting can be a critical tool for character development. Use it strategically to deepen relationships with characters you wish to explore further, especially if you're interested in romance options.
Conclusion
Gifting in "Dragon Age: Awakening" is an engaging mechanic that enhances your interactions with companions while providing opportunities for character development and unique storylines. By understanding each companion's preferences and using strategic gifting, players can forge strong bonds that lead to deeper connections and memorable moments in the game. Whether you're looking to deepen friendships or explore romantic avenues, this gift guide is an invaluable resource for maximizing your experience in Ferelden. Happy gifting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best gifts to give to companions in Dragon Age: Awakening?
Some of the best gifts include the 'Templar's Ring' for Oghren, 'The Rose of Orlais' for Leliana, and 'Duncan's Shield' for Alistair, as these gifts significantly boost their approval ratings.
How can I determine which gifts are suitable for each companion in Dragon Age: Awakening?
Each companion in Dragon Age: Awakening has specific preferences. You can find their preferred gifts by checking their character backgrounds or through various guides that list companion-specific gifts.
Are there any unique gifts in Dragon Age: Awakening that can only be obtained through specific quests?
Yes, certain gifts like 'Shale's Locket' and 'The Book of Shartan' can only be obtained through specific quests, and giving these gifts will have a significant impact on companion approval.
Can I use the same gift for multiple companions in Dragon Age: Awakening?
While some gifts can be universally liked, it is generally more effective to give gifts that are specific to each companion's preferences to maximize approval ratings.
Is there a limit to how many gifts I can give to each companion in Dragon Age: Awakening?
There is no hard limit to the number of gifts you can give, but each companion has a maximum approval rating. After reaching that cap, additional gifts will not increase their approval further.
