Rahul Singh
Dragon Age
As fans of the beloved RPG franchise gathered, eager to hear updates on the upcoming game “Dragon Age: Dreadwolf,” the cast and crew provided a delightful twist by sharing their personal preferences on who they would romance in the Dragon Age universe.
The panel was an engaging blend of nostalgia, character insights, and lighthearted fun, leaving fans both entertained and more connected to the people behind their favorite characters.
The Setting and the Atmosphere
The atmosphere at SDCC was electric as fans packed into Hall H, adorned with costumes of their favorite characters from across the Dragon Age series. The room buzzed with excitement, with fans holding banners, wearing T-shirts, and displaying their allegiance to various factions and characters. The panel’s stage was decorated with iconic Dragon Age imagery, from the Ferelden flag to the symbols of the Inquisition, creating a visually immersive experience.
The Panelists
The panel was hosted by Mark Darrah, the former executive producer of the Dragon Age series, and featured a stellar lineup of cast and crew members:
- David Gaider – Lead Writer
- Claudia Black – Voice of Morrigan
- Gareth David-Lloyd – Voice of Solas
- Alix Wilton Regan – Voice of the Female Inquisitor
- Greg Ellis – Voice of Cullen Rutherford
- Jon Curry – Voice of Zevran Arainai
- Corinne Kempa – Voice of Briala
The chemistry among the panelists was palpable, as they joked, reminisced, and shared their experiences working on the franchise.
Opening Remarks
Mark Darrah kicked off the panel with a heartfelt speech about the enduring legacy of Dragon Age and its impact on fans worldwide. He emphasized the importance of character relationships in the series and how they have contributed to the rich storytelling and emotional depth that fans cherish.
“We’ve always believed that the heart of Dragon Age lies in its characters and their relationships,” Darrah stated. “Whether it’s friendship, rivalry, or romance, these connections make the world of Thedas feel alive and meaningful.”
Claudia Black (Morrigan)
Claudia Black, the iconic voice of the enigmatic and powerful witch Morrigan, was the first to share her romantic preferences. Known for her sultry and commanding voice, Black’s portrayal of Morrigan has been a fan favorite since “Dragon Age: Origins.”
“Morrigan is a character who guards her heart fiercely,” Black began. “But if I were to choose someone for her to romance, it would have to be someone who can match her intellect and challenge her worldview. I think Alistair would be an interesting choice. His straightforwardness and humor could potentially break through her defenses.”
Black’s choice of Alistair, the lovable and noble Grey Warden, elicited cheers from the audience. Fans appreciated the idea of two characters with such contrasting personalities finding common ground.
Gareth David-Lloyd (Solas)
Next up was Gareth David-Lloyd, the voice of Solas, the mysterious and complex apostate elf from “Dragon Age: Inquisition.” Solas, known for his deep knowledge of the Fade and his philosophical outlook, has been a subject of much intrigue and debate among fans.
“Solas is a character who carries a lot of burdens and secrets,” David-Lloyd said. “If I were to choose someone for him to romance, it would have to be someone who understands the weight of those burdens. Lavellan, the Dalish Inquisitor, comes to mind. Their shared elven heritage and her inquisitive nature could create a profound connection between them.”
David-Lloyd’s choice resonated with fans, many of whom had speculated about the potential depth of a Solas-Lavellan relationship.
Alix Wilton Regan (Female Inquisitor)
Alix Wilton Regan, who voiced the female Inquisitor, brought a unique perspective to the panel. As the player character in “Dragon Age: Inquisition,” the Inquisitor’s romances are determined by the player’s choices, making Regan’s insights particularly intriguing.
“As the Inquisitor, I had the privilege of exploring various romantic paths,” Regan explained. “If I had to choose a favorite, it would be Cullen Rutherford. His journey from a Templar to a trusted advisor and his struggle with his past make him a compelling and emotionally resonant character. Plus, who can resist that charming smile?”
Regan’s choice of Cullen, the loyal and conflicted Templar, was met with enthusiastic applause, highlighting the character’s popularity among fans.
Greg Ellis (Cullen Rutherford)
Greg Ellis, the voice behind Cullen Rutherford, followed with his perspective on romance in the Dragon Age universe. Cullen’s evolution from a minor character in “Dragon Age: Origins” to a major figure in “Dragon Age: Inquisition” has been a highlight of the series.
“Cullen has always been driven by duty and a desire to protect those he cares about,” Ellis remarked. “I think his ideal romantic partner would be someone who shares his sense of duty but also challenges him to see beyond his rigid beliefs. Josephine Montilyet, the diplomatic and charming ambassador, would be a perfect match for him.”
Ellis’s choice of Josephine, the diplomatic advisor of the Inquisition, sparked a lively discussion among fans, many of whom had pursued this romance in their playthroughs.
Jon Curry (Zevran Arainai)
Jon Curry, who voiced the charming and roguish assassin Zevran Arainai, brought a lighthearted and humorous touch to the panel. Zevran’s flirtatious nature and quick wit have made him a memorable character in the series.
“Zevran is a character who loves to enjoy life to the fullest,” Curry said with a grin. “If I were to choose a romantic partner for him, it would have to be someone who can keep up with his adventurous spirit and playful nature. Isabela, the pirate queen, would be a perfect match. They’d have grand adventures together and probably get into a lot of trouble.”
Curry’s choice of Isabela, the daring and free-spirited pirate, delighted the audience, who appreciated the potential for a dynamic and exciting relationship.
Corinne Kempa (Briala)
Corinne Kempa, the voice of Briala, the elven spymaster, offered a perspective on romance that delved into the complexities of political alliances and personal loyalty. Briala’s relationship with Celene, the Empress of Orlais, is one of the most intricate and politically charged romances in the series.
“Briala is a character who has had to navigate the treacherous waters of politics and power,” Kempa explained. “Her relationship with Celene is one of love and betrayal, making it incredibly rich and layered. If I were to choose a romantic partner for Briala, it would be Celene. Their relationship, despite its challenges, is deeply compelling and showcases the complexities of love in a world of political intrigue.”
Kempa’s choice of Celene highlighted the nuanced and multifaceted nature of relationships in the Dragon Age universe, resonating with fans who appreciate the depth of the series’ storytelling.
Audience Q&A
The panel concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where fans had the opportunity to ask the panelists about their characters and the upcoming “Dragon Age: Dreadwolf.” Questions ranged from inquiries about character development to speculation on potential storylines.
One fan asked about the possibility of revisiting past romances in “Dragon Age: Dreadwolf.” David Gaider responded, “While we can’t reveal too much, we always strive to honor the choices players have made in previous games. Relationships and their consequences will continue to play a significant role in shaping the narrative.”
Another fan inquired about the challenges of voicing such complex characters. Claudia Black shared her experience, saying, “Morrigan is a character with so many layers, and it’s a joy to explore her complexities. The writing in Dragon Age is superb, and it allows us as actors to delve deep into our roles.”
The panelists also discussed the importance of representation and diversity in the Dragon Age series. Alix Wilton Regan emphasized, “It’s crucial that players see themselves reflected in the characters and stories. Dragon Age has always been about inclusivity, and we hope to continue that tradition in ‘Dreadwolf.'”
Closing Thoughts
As the panel drew to a close, Mark Darrah thanked the fans for their unwavering support and passion for the Dragon Age series. “Your love for these characters and their stories is what drives us to create. We can’t wait to share more about ‘Dragon Age: Dreadwolf’ and the adventures that await in Thedas.”
The “Dragon Age Cast & Crew Tell Us Who They’re Going To Romance” panel at SDCC 2024 was a delightful and insightful event that brought fans closer to the characters and the people who bring them to life. It showcased the enduring appeal of the Dragon Age franchise and left fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this beloved series.
As fans left the panel, the excitement and discussions continued, with many sharing their own romantic choices and speculating about the future of their favorite characters. The panel not only celebrated the rich tapestry of relationships in Dragon Age but also reinforced the strong bond between the creators and the fans, promising more unforgettable adventures in the world of Thedas.
