In Dragon Age: Origins, building strong relationships with your companions is crucial for unlocking deeper storylines, personal quests, and powerful character development. One of the key mechanics to foster these bonds is through gifting. Understanding the art of giving Da Origins Gifts can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. This guide will walk you through how to effectively use gifts to gain approval and strengthen your alliances in Ferelden.
Understanding the Gifting System in Dragon Age: Origins
Giving gifts in DA Origins is straightforward yet impactful. To initiate a gift, simply select the NPC you wish to present it to, access their inventory (usually by pressing the ‘I’ key), and then right-click on the chosen gift item. From the radial menu, select the gift icon. The reaction of the NPC will immediately indicate the success of your offering.
NPC reactions are categorized into:
- Love: A cherished gift will yield a substantial approval boost, ranging from +6 to +8. These are typically plot-related items or gifts that deeply resonate with the NPC’s personality and background.
- Like: A well-received gift grants a moderate increase in approval, around +3. These items align with the NPC’s general preferences.
- Indifference: A neutral gift provides a minimal +1 approval, suggesting the NPC is neither pleased nor displeased.
- Plot Items: Certain unique gifts are specifically designed to trigger cutscenes and advance character-specific plotlines, often categorized under “loved” gifts.
A Guide to Preferred Gifts for Each Companion
To optimize your gifting strategy, it’s essential to know what each companion values. Here’s a breakdown of the preferred gift categories and notable plot gifts for each NPC:
Alister: This steadfast Grey Warden appreciates figurines and magic-related items. Early in your adventures, keep an eye out for sculptures and similar artifacts to please Alister. His plot gift is an amulet, found within Redcliffe Castle, which holds significant personal meaning for him.
Morrigan: The enigmatic witch of the wilds has a penchant for jewelry. Adornments such as earrings, amulets, and gold-encrusted lockets are sure to catch her eye. Key plot gifts for Morrigan include a golden mirror, reflecting her vanity and hidden depths, and Flemeth’s Grimoire, a powerful and dangerous artifact tied to her origins.
Leliana: The devout bard from the Chantry is moved by symbols of Andraste. Gifts connected to the Maker and the Chantry, such as holy symbols or texts, will resonate with Leliana’s faith. Her poignant plot gift is a flower named after Andraste, symbolizing her devotion and personal history.
Sten: The stoic Qunari warrior initially seems unapproachable, but he harbors a surprising appreciation for paintings. Don’t be discouraged by early gruffness; paintings are the key to Sten’s approval. His plot gift is his lost sword, a quest item that represents his honor and warrior identity.
Zevran: The charming Antivan Crow favors bars of rare metals. Gold, silver, and other precious metals appeal to Zevran’s mercenary nature and appreciation for the finer things. He also has an unexpected fondness for leather. His plot gifts are a pair of Antivan leather gloves and boots, reflecting his assassin background and style.
Wynne: The wise and compassionate spirit healer values scrolls and texts. Books and scrolls, particularly those containing knowledge or wisdom, are gifts that Wynne will appreciate. While a definitive plot-related gift isn’t explicitly mentioned in the original text, focusing on rare and ancient texts would likely resonate with her scholarly nature.
Dog: While gifting your Mabari War Hound doesn’t directly impact gameplay bonuses or disapproval, 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.
The Significance of Gifting in DA Origins
Mastering the art of giving da origins gifts extends beyond simply increasing approval ratings. It’s a gateway to:
- Unlocking Personal Quests: High approval often triggers companion-specific quests that delve into their backstories and motivations.
- Deepening Relationships: Gifting, especially plot gifts, can unlock deeper conversations and romantic possibilities.
- Strengthening Your Party: Loyal companions are more effective in combat and more likely to support your decisions.
By strategically utilizing da origins gifts, you can forge stronger bonds with your companions, enrich your Dragon Age: Origins experience, and ensure a more cohesive and powerful party throughout your journey.
