Dragon's Dogma II - "They’re masterworks, all – you can’t go wrong"

[mediocrepoet]

I honestly don't think the story is that bad. It's fatal flaw is they never bother to wrap up the Vernworth stuff. They just completely drop it. If that had a proper resolution this would actually be a really good story. Phaesus is a interesting character and it's pretty brilliant how they sprinkle in little details about him throughout the game without revealing him until the very end. Nice touch. It just sucks that the Vernworth drama is completely forgotten. It all needed to be tied together.

I think it basically is. Now that I've played through that arc to completion, I'm not certain what you figure needs to be added.

I just think it could have been fleshed out more is all. Once you go to Battahl it's like nothing happening in the kingdom matters. It makes sense in the grand scheme of things as being trivial but I quite liked that part of the story.

What could happen that would involve you though?

Spoiler

The false Arisen was coronated and as far as the MQ goes, you're following the evidence to figure out what they have been up to. For the plot, they're still getting their Godsway artifacts in order to try and perform the summoning ritual which is part of what they're doing with the false Arisen who's just hanging out waiting for that to be done.

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

Btw my true "love" at the end ended up being... the forgery guy. You have no idea how badly I wanted to jump off a cliff. I was praying for Wilhelmina.

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

What could happen that would involve you though?

Spoiler

The false Arisen was coronated and as far as the MQ goes, you're following the evidence to figure out what they have been up to. For the plot, they're still getting their Godsway artifacts in order to try and perform the summoning ritual which is part of what they're doing with the false Arisen who's just hanging out waiting for that to be done.

What about the queen's goals? We learn almost nothing about her. She's just portrayed as a evil scheming cunt.

 

[Anonona]

What about the queen's goals? We learn almost nothing about her. She's just portrayed as a evil scheming cunt.

Spoilers

She was a pawn of Paeshus. She gave him test subjects and pawns and in exchange he gave her godsway for the false arisen. Both wanted to keep the Arisen away for the throne each for their own reasons. In the postgame it is revealed that her main motivation was to ensure her son rise to power, even if she admits she also did it for the power and status. If you do the quest right, her son will convince her to repent and face the future together

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

Escorting NPCs in this game is a god damned nightmare. It can't just be me having problems with this shit. I bitched about it way earlier in the thread. How is it that the pawn pathfinding is so good and regular NPC pathfinding is so butt fucking broken? It wasn't a huge deal in regular game but now I'm in the unmoored world and it's very important that these stupid cocksuckers not disappear on me.

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

I hate to keep drawing comparisons but I swear there are parts of the Unmoored world that look just like Caelid..

Anyways loving the endgame. I don't typically like my games having a timer. I hate being rushed into shit. It works here for some reason.

 

[BLOBERT]

BROS I GOT HUNDREDS OF GAMES TO PLAY

PLEASE SUMMARIZE IS THIS WORTH A PURCHASE!! M.?

DRAGONS DOGMA ONE IS ONE OF MY FAV GAMES MANY TIMES

JUST CURIOUS BROS THE MOST ENTERTAIN THING IN MY LIFE NOTE IS REPLAYING THE SHIT OUT OF SEKIRO MY WIFE GETS SO HOT WHEN I TELL HER MY BIG AND THICK NINJA STORIES

 

[Yosharian]

BROS I GOT HUNDREDS OF GAMES TO PLAY

PLEASE SUMMARIZE IS THIS WORTH A PURCHASE!! M.?

DRAGONS DOGMA ONE IS ONE OF MY FAV GAMES MANY TIMES

JUST CURIOUS BROS THE MOST ENTERTAIN THING IN MY LIFE NOTE IS REPLAYING THE SHIT OUT OF SEKIRO MY WIFE GETS SO HOT WHEN I TELL HER MY BIG AND THICK NINJA STORIES

Your wife's boyfriend thinks it's great

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

Indepth article about Wilhelmina, the best and most mysterious character in DD2. I know you will all love it - https://www.dualshockers.com/wilhelminas-story-in-dragons-dogma-2-left-me-hanging/


^Me after spending the night with Wilhelmina.

Capcom has to fix this injustice in the expansion.

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

Finished the whole game, including the endgame. 10/10 masterpiece. Even the fucking end credits were amazing. On to NG+.

 

[DJOGamer PT]

Oracscube​

How about this little detail?

Harpy Transformation

Trickster could be really cool, once they add some harder difficulty options. Class has a lot of potential, but right now it's pointless because everything dies in seconds and does no damage, so all the aggro management, illusions, C&C etc. Trickster offers, has 0 opportunity to shine.

I think Trickster could've used a meter mechanic that once you reach certain thresholds it would allow the player to cast infuse more offensive effects to the smoke - sleep, poisoning, frost, etc...

I don't think they need to add new vocations or abilities, though. There's a good selection already.

Disagree
There should be at least the remaining advanced vocations for Thief and Archer

Plus the Pink+Purple color combination for Trickster still bothers me
It does nothing but suggest there's supposed to exist 2 more base vocations
And they could've entirely avoided such implication if they had made Trickster Blue+Green

 

[Suicidal]

BROS I GOT HUNDREDS OF GAMES TO PLAY

PLEASE SUMMARIZE IS THIS WORTH A PURCHASE!! M.?

DRAGONS DOGMA ONE IS ONE OF MY FAV GAMES MANY TIMES

JUST CURIOUS BROS THE MOST ENTERTAIN THING IN MY LIFE NOTE IS REPLAYING THE SHIT OUT OF SEKIRO MY WIFE GETS SO HOT WHEN I TELL HER MY BIG AND THICK NINJA STORIES

Do you have a high-end PC?
If so - yes. If not - wait for more fixes.

 

[Yosharian]

I have a high end PC and I'm not happy with the game's performance

It's trash

 

[Stoned Ape]

I don't think they need to add new vocations or abilities, though. There's a good selection already.

Disagree
There should be at least the remaining advanced vocations for Thief and Archer

Mystic Spearhand has more in common in playstyle with Thief than it does with Fighter or Warrior. Thief has unbeatable personal defence (while it has stamina) with obscene DPS. Spearhand had obscene team defence + extremely high damage output with its basic attacks.

Magic Archer is the magic + archery advanced vocation.

What would an advanced version of the Thief vocation look like? An even more broken version of Thief which is already one of the strongest in the game?

In DDDA Ranger and Strider had pretty similar skills with Strider having a melee emphasis and Ranger focusing on bows. There are no such overlaps in the skill sets of vocations this time around, they all have distinct playstyles.

Warfarer allows you to build pretty much any hybrid class you want to play as already, I don't see that you'd need another way to play Thief + Archer advanced vocation when you can set it up to play that way if you want to. It's basically a much more versatile version of Assassin.

 

[Shaki]

I don't think they need to add new vocations or abilities, though. There's a good selection already.

Disagree
There should be at least the remaining advanced vocations for Thief and Archer

Mystic Spearhand has more in common in playstyle with Thief than it does with Fighter or Warrior. Thief has unbeatable personal defence (while it has stamina) with obscene DPS. Spearhand had obscene team defence + extremely high damage output with its basic attacks.

Magic Archer is the magic + archery advanced vocation.

What would an advanced version of the Thief vocation look like? An even more broken version of Thief which is already one of the strongest in the game?

In DDDA Ranger and Strider had pretty similar skills with Strider having a melee emphasis and Ranger focusing on bows. There are no such overlaps in the skill sets of vocations this time around, they all have distinct playstyles.

Warfarer allows you to build pretty much any hybrid class you want to play as already, I don't see that you'd need another way to play Thief + Archer advanced vocation when you can set it up to play that way if you want to. It's basically a much more versatile version of Assassin.

I mean, there is always space for more cool vocations. I wouldn't say no to some monk-like unarmed vocation for example. Or some wild shit like a shapeshifting vocation. Or since we already have a vocation focused entirely on supporting pawns, we could also have a vocation focused purely on solo play, without pawns. There is a lot of cool shit you can think up.

But ofc their first priority should be adding more challenge/replayability, more areas to explore, and more enemies.

 

[cruel]

https://thatparkplace.com/capcom-go...reserving-context-and-inclusive-storytelling/

The official Capcom Localization Team account on X posted, “What is localization? Embark on a global adventure through the lens of game localization! Beyond mere translation, we’re diving into the art of cultural adaptation, preserving context, and inclusive storytelling. Join us as we unravel the intricacies that make games resonate worldwide.”

The account added, “Localization isn’t just about translating words; it’s about adapting the game for a global audience. Think cultural nuances, idioms, and regional flair. A good localization makes players feel right at home, wherever in the world they are!”

Next, they stated, “Lost in Translation? Nah! Preserving the vibe is key. Jokes, references, and even gameplay elements might need a little cultural remix. It’s important to find that sweet spot to make sure players get the intended experience without feeling like something got lost in the process.”

“Each language has its unique structure and cultural context. Our teams work to ensure the narrative and dialogue maintain coherence and emotional impact. It’s not just about words; it’s about capturing the essence of the story in a way that resonates with the target audience,” the Capcom Localization Team wrote.

Best one:

For cultural sensitivity in characters the company wrote, “Character design and development must be culturally sensitive. What may be acceptable in one culture might be offensive in another. Localizers play a crucial role in ensuring that characters are relatable and respectful, avoiding stereotypes or other references that could be perceived as negative in specific cultures.”

As for inclusive language and representation it said, “Localization efforts extend to promoting inclusivity through language and representation. This involves adapting not only the linguistic aspects but also addressing gender-specific language, cultural norms, and diverse perspectives. The aim is to create an immersive experience where players from different backgrounds can identify with the characters and narrative. This can be very challenging for certain languages due to grammar.”

 

[Stoned Ape]

I wouldn't say no to some monk-like unarmed vocation for example.

I'd recommend muting this because the music might give you ear-cancer, but:

 

[mediocrepoet]

I wouldn't say no to some monk-like unarmed vocation for example.

I'd recommend muting this because the music might give you ear-cancer, but:

That's actually kind of cool. Music sucks balls though. Not the worst soundtrack I've heard at least, but it'd be better without it.

 

[DJOGamer PT]

Warfarer allows you to build pretty much any hybrid class you want to play as already

Oh c'mon man
Warfarer is a cool addition as a sort of end/post-game job
But used like that and it comes across a bit of a lazy cop out not build upon the gameplay variety

I mean wouldn't you like something akin to DDO's Alchemist?

 

[Cheesedragon117]

Indepth article about Wilhelmina, the best and most mysterious character in DD2. I know you will all love it - https://www.dualshockers.com/wilhelminas-story-in-dragons-dogma-2-left-me-hanging/


^Me after spending the night with Wilhelmina.

Capcom has to fix this injustice in the expansion.

Wilhelmina was your beloved? Brother, she's for the streets.

Do you simply not care than you're not her first? But rather her three-dozenth at the minimum?? Disgraceful!

Finished the whole game, including the endgame. 10/10 masterpiece. Even the fucking end credits were amazing. On to NG+.

Also, what the hell is that character? Were you going for a Sophitia from Soul Calibur vibe?

And I have to ask..... what was the one Wakestone revive? Did you disavow using them as a challenge to yourself, only to rage-revive after taking a long walk off a short cliff by accident?

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

Also, what the hell is that character? Were you going for a Sophitia from Soul Calibur vibe?

And I have to ask..... what was the one Wakestone revive? Did you disavow using them as a challenge to yourself, only to rage-revive after taking a long walk off a short cliff by accident?

Honestly I didn't know you could use wakestones on yourself and I never carried them on me because I didn't have a problem with NPCs dying. The one I used was on accident in endgame. Both wakestone uses were in endgame.

Oh and that outfit gives alot of nice upskirt shots.

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

BROS I GOT HUNDREDS OF GAMES TO PLAY

PLEASE SUMMARIZE IS THIS WORTH A PURCHASE!! M.?

DRAGONS DOGMA ONE IS ONE OF MY FAV GAMES MANY TIMES

JUST CURIOUS BROS THE MOST ENTERTAIN THING IN MY LIFE NOTE IS REPLAYING THE SHIT OUT OF SEKIRO MY WIFE GETS SO HOT WHEN I TELL HER MY BIG AND THICK NINJA STORIES

Ya know I always wondered, did your caps lock button break on your keyboard?

 

[mediocrepoet]

First cycle done, what a great trip.

• Hours taken: A lot.
• Quests screwed up: At least two.
• Achievements gotten: 50/54, but I think one of them requires a second playthrough or save shenanigans.
• Seeker tokens found: 211/210.
• Final level: 97, all vocations maxed, all maister skills received.
• Ending received: Best, as far as I can tell. Not sure how many variations there are, but I get the impression at least three. Definitely two.
• Towns killed from DragonAIDS: 0
• Pawns killed for displaying signs of DragonAIDS: 6+
• Times I've seen my wife since launch: 3 jk... mostly.

Rating: 10/10, probably personal GOTY.

I'd actually call this an improvement over DD and DD:DA in every way except the following:

1) DD1's music was better.
2) Performance issues letting the frustrations with that blur the reception of a fantastic game.
3) Memorable pawn/NPC quotes. The pawn quotes are just as inane, but somehow less charming.
4) No inexplicable Fournival romance.
5) Trickster kinda sucks, might be more interesting in a dedicated Warfarer set up. I might experiment after a vacation from this game. Holy hell.

I have the sense that I wanted to put something else in this list, but my brain is pretty much mush right now. I look forward to sleeping like a regular person again.

PS:

Because they couldn't care less.
They knew sycophants like Jinn, mediocrepoet and SDG would buy it no matter what.

The game's great! Eat shit, fork!

 

[H. P. Lovecraft's Cat]

First cycle done, what a great trip.

• Hours taken: A lot.
• Quests screwed up: At least two.
• Achievements gotten: 50/54, but I think one of them requires a second playthrough or save shenanigans.
• Seeker tokens found: 211/210.
• Final level: 97, all vocations maxed, all maister skills received.
• Ending received: Best, as far as I can tell. Not sure how many variations there are, but I get the impression at least three. Definitely two.
• Towns killed from DragonAIDS: 0
• Pawns killed for displaying signs of DragonAIDS: 6+
• Times I've seen my wife since launch: 3 jk... mostly.

Rating: 10/10, probably personal GOTY.

I'd actually call this an improvement over DD and DD:DA in every way except the following:

Level 97 is insane. What were your hours compared to mine?

 

[mediocrepoet]

First cycle done, what a great trip.

• Hours taken: A lot.
• Quests screwed up: At least two.
• Achievements gotten: 50/54, but I think one of them requires a second playthrough or save shenanigans.
• Seeker tokens found: 211/210.
• Final level: 97, all vocations maxed, all maister skills received.
• Ending received: Best, as far as I can tell. Not sure how many variations there are, but I get the impression at least three. Definitely two.
• Towns killed from DragonAIDS: 0
• Pawns killed for displaying signs of DragonAIDS: 6+
• Times I've seen my wife since launch: 3 jk... mostly.

Rating: 10/10, probably personal GOTY.

I'd actually call this an improvement over DD and DD:DA in every way except the following:

Level 97 is insane. What were your hours compared to mine?

Less than yours.

I clocked in at like 209 hours, but about an hour of that was idling due to being called away. The fuck were you even doing? Trying to take pawn upskirts in photo mode?