In the world of “dao”, building relationships with your companions is crucial, and one of the most effective ways to strengthen these bonds is through gifting. Understanding the gifting system and each character’s preferences can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to give gifts and what each companion truly appreciates, ensuring you maximize their approval and unlock unique storylines.
To initiate gift-giving, first, select the NPC you wish to present a gift to. Access their inventory by pressing the “I” key. Then, locate the gift item in your inventory, hold right-click, and select the gift icon from the radial menu. The impact of your gift will be immediately evident through the approval rating change. If a companion “loves” the gift, expect a substantial increase of +6 to +8. A “liked” gift will yield a +3 increase, while an indifferent reaction results in a minimal +1 boost. It’s also important to note that certain gifts are designated as plot items, which means giving them will trigger specific cutscenes and advance character-specific storylines.
To help you navigate the preferences of each companion, here is a detailed breakdown of their favored gift categories and notable plot-related gifts:
Alister: This companion has a penchant for figurines and magic-related items. Early in your adventures, you’ll likely encounter various sculptures and similar artifacts – these make excellent gifts for Alister. A key plot gift for him is an amulet, which can be discovered within Red Cliff Castle.
Morrigan: Jewelry is the key to Morrigan’s favor. Think earrings, amulets, gold-encrusted lockets, and other ornate pieces. For plot progression, consider gifting her a golden mirror and Flemeth’s Grimoire, both significant items in her personal questline.
Leliana: With her Chantry background, Leliana holds a special appreciation for symbols of Andrastate. Gifts that reflect her faith and devotion are sure to please her. Her plot gift is a unique flower, aptly named after Andrastate herself.
Sten: Paintings are the surefire way to earn Sten’s respect. Initially, engaging in conversation with him might be challenging, but gifting him paintings is a direct path to his approval. As your relationship deepens, he will entrust you with a quest to recover his lost sword, which serves as a crucial plot gift.
Zevran: This enigmatic elf has a taste for bars of rare metals. Gold, silver, and other precious rarities will capture his attention. Beyond metals, Zevran also appreciates leather items. His plot-related gifts include a pair of Antivan leather gloves and boots, reflecting his Antivan Crows background.
Wynne: Scrolls and texts are the pathway to Wynne’s heart. She values knowledge and wisdom, making scrolls and books ideal gifts. While it’s less clear if she has a specific plot-related gift, consistently offering her texts will undoubtedly strengthen your bond.
Dog: While gifting your Mabari War Hound might not offer tangible gameplay advantages in terms of stats or abilities, if you wish to indulge your canine companion, bones are the way to go. Lamb or beef bones, often found during your travels, are suitable treats for your loyal dog. They are essentially items with little to no monetary value, making them perfect for canine affection.
By understanding these gifting preferences, you can strategically improve your relationships with each companion in “dao”, unlocking deeper storylines and enriching your overall gaming experience. Use this guide to ensure your gifts are always well-received and contribute to forging strong alliances throughout your journey.
