Dragon Age 2: A Comprehensive Guide to Companion Romance
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of relationships available in Dragon Age 2? This guide offers an in-depth exploration of all the Companion Romance options that are open to you, regardless of your character’s gender.
From brooding mages to rugged rogues, this game allows you to interact with an array of unique characters, each with its own intricate backstory and romantic journey.
Not sure who you want to romance then check out our Who’s Who in Dragon Age 2: A Close Look at Your Companions for an in-depth breakdown of each companion’s backstory.
Understanding Romance in Dragon Age 2
Within the rich narrative of Dragon Age 2, engaging with your companions goes beyond merely selecting flirtatious conversation options. Instead, it necessitates comprehending each character’s individual narrative and aligning your actions with their moral code.
Every companion has a unique reaction to your decisions and actions as you progress through the game. Garnering approval from a companion bolsters your friendship with them, whilst disapproval fosters rivalry.
Both trajectories can blossom into a romantic relationship, though the rivalry path often results in a relationship tinged with conflict and intensity. Remember, romance in Dragon Age 2 is not a straightforward path but a nuanced journey of building trust, forging bonds, and sometimes, weathering disagreements.
Companion Romance Options – The Overview
In the captivating world of Dragon Age 2, there are four potential companions for both male and female characters to court. Each companion presents a unique romance option, full of complex emotions and narrative depth.
First up is Anders, once a Grey Warden, now an impassioned mage advocating for the freedom of his kind. Next is Fenris, an elven warrior whose past has left emotional scars. There’s also the charismatic Isabela, a pirate queen with an appetite for adventure. Then, there’s Merrill, a Dalish mage whose naive curiosity about forbidden magic defines her. An additional character available via DLC, Sebastian, also offers a chaste romance. He’s a prince and a sworn celibate, and his story represents a departure from the others.
Bear in mind that each of these characters has unique preferences, aspirations and moral codes, which your protagonist must align with to foster romance.
Romancing Anders
Starting a romance with Anders requires aligning with his strong advocacy for mage freedom. Your journey with him commences in Act 1 during his quest, ‘Tranquillity‘, where you have the first chance to express your romantic intentions. Selecting dialogue options that indicate interest in his persona, such as “I’d like to get to know you better”, will open the path to romance.
As you move forward, remember to consistently support his fight for mage liberation. If you maintain this stance, by the close of Act 2, your relationship with Anders should have evolved into a fully-fledged romance.
Keep in mind that Anders is passionate and committed to his cause, and any indication of wavering support could potentially affect the bond between you. Therefore, tread carefully and sincerely in your conversations and decisions related to mage freedom.
Pursuing Fenris
Courting Fenris is a journey that involves acknowledging and understanding the traumas he carries from his past. His backstory, fraught with hardship, requires your character to demonstrate empathy and respect for his individuality.
To unlock Fenris’s romance option, you’ll need to be patient with him throughout Act 2 in his personal quest, ‘A Bitter Pill‘. Use dialogue options that convey compassion and patience towards his personal struggles.
Fenris appreciates honesty and will respond positively to a character who can respect his boundaries while also showing genuine concern for his well-being. Make sure to stand by him, honour his choices, and listen when he opens up about his past.
It’s worth noting that Fenris carries a deep resentment towards mages due to his past experiences, so be cautious when discussing mage-related topics. His heart might be guarded, but with understanding and patience, Fenris might just let you in.
Winning Isabela’s Heart
To secure Isabela’s affection, you must embody the vivacious spirit she so admires. This daring rogue pirate queen prizes honesty, a zest for life, and a cracking sense of humour. The quest ‘Fools Rush In‘ presents the first chance to show your romantic interest.
Your approach must reflect an alignment with her values and a commitment to stand up for her. She appreciates light-heartedness, so don’t shy away from playful banter. Above all, Isabela is fiercely independent and any attempt to restrict her freedom might be counterproductive.
Make sure to let her be who she truly is: a free spirit who refuses to be tamed. As you venture through the game, remain consistent in your actions. Isabela might be guarded initially, but if you manage to demonstrate your sincerity and genuine care for her, you may be able to unlock a deeper relationship.
Falling in Love with Merrill
To capture Merrill’s heart, you’ll need to respect her curiosity about forbidden magic and back her thirst for learning, no matter how hazardous her path may seem. You start this romantic path during her individual quest, ‘Long Way Home‘, in Act 1. During this quest, opt for understanding and supportive dialogue options to hint at your romantic intentions towards her.
Keep in mind, that Merrill’s pursuit of knowledge is a thorny path and navigating it with her requires a hefty dose of compassion and empathy. Do be prepared to stick by her as she stumbles through the perils of dabbling in banned magic.
Just remember, Merrill is a sweet, naive elf and any attempts to coerce her could potentially drive her away. Being patient, understanding and supportive throughout your interactions with her will play a crucial role in winning her heart.
This gentle elf, intrigued by the dangerous allure of the unknown, requires a partner willing to take the risk along with her, understanding the consequences yet supporting her all the same. So if you’re prepared for a romance that involves walking on the edge, then Merrill might just be the companion for you.
Courting Sebastian
Sebastian’s romantic journey is quite different from other companions, in that it remains platonic due to his vow of chastity. As a prince bound by his religious beliefs, he is a complex character with unique challenges. He only becomes available if you have the ‘Exiled Prince‘ DLC pack.
To ignite the spark of a chaste romance, start in Act 2 with his personal quest, ‘Duty‘. Your dialogue and choices need to reflect support for his spiritual commitment and the tumultuous balancing act between his princely obligations and religious duty. Be prepared for a unique romantic pursuit that revolves around spiritual kinship rather than carnal desire.
Sebastian’s romance does not follow the traditional route and this presents an interesting dynamic to navigate. Avoid pushing him towards breaking his vows; instead, show him respect and understanding for the path he has chosen. Just like the other companions, he is affected by your choices, so make sure they align with his values.
While courting Sebastian may not result in a traditional romance, it provides a deep and satisfying emotional connection. Understand that this relationship requires a different approach and a genuine respect for his commitment to his faith. Show him that love can exist in multiple forms and that you are willing to walk the journey of platonic love with him. Your relationship with Sebastian, much like his own personal journey, is a challenging yet fulfilling path that offers a unique and nuanced portrayal of love in Dragon Age 2.
Navigating Love Triangles and Rivalries
In Dragon Age 2, pursuing multiple characters concurrently may lead to complicated romantic entanglements, often culminating in love triangles or intense rivalries. When relationships reach a pivotal stage, the game will compel you to make a decisive choice between potential suitors.
It is crucial to bear in mind that a highly contentious rivalry between two characters may result in the romantic option for one being automatically locked out when you opt for a relationship with the other. Each love interest has its unique narrative arc and the way their stories intertwine can influence the relationship dynamics considerably.
Thus, it’s not only about choosing whom you are interested in but also considering the wider implications and potential conflicts that your choice could spark. Therefore, navigating romantic dynamics in Dragon Age 2 requires strategic decision-making and a thoughtful understanding of each character’s disposition.
Manage these relationships with care and wisdom to enjoy a rewarding romantic journey amidst the game’s intricate web of personal interactions.
Heroic Guardians
Gaming has been an integral part of my life for as long as I can remember. From the pixelated adventures of my childhood to the immersive worlds of today, I've witnessed the evolution of gaming firsthand. My passion for both playing and writing led me to create this gaming blog, where I eagerly share my thoughts, insights, and experiences with the gaming community. Join me as I explore the vast realms of virtual worlds and dive deep into the narratives that captivate us all.
