Capcom has finally confirmed Dragon’s Dogma 2’s release date, marking a significant milestone in the sequel’s hellishly long development cycle. Scheduled to launch on March 22, 2024, the announcement came during a Capcom showcase, which also featured around 15 minutes of gameplay, a new trailer, and detailed insights into the game’s mechanics and its world. This news, albeit slightly preceded by leaks on its Steam page and a PEGI rating, has been officially stamped, setting the stage for the release of the eagerly awaited follow-up to its cult classic action RPG.
In what could be a pivotal release in the genre, Capcom revealed one of the standalone elements in its showcase: the Trickster. Described as a “devious vocation,” the Trickster’s unique combat style involves using a censer to conjure and create illusions, causing enemies to fight amongst themselves. This creative approach to class design hints at Capcom’s commitment to refreshing the gameplay experience while staying true to the spirit of the original game. Furthermore, the showcase revealed the inclusion of the Talos, a formidable brass warrior emerging from the sea, showcasing the game’s impressive scale and depth.
Dragon’s Dogma 2’s setting and narrative context further adds to the game’s allure. It’s set in a world that’s parallel to the original, where players, as Arisen, navigate the complex geopolitical tensions of two rival nations. The storylines help enrich an already expansive universe, promising a narrative filled with intrigue and conflict.
Moreover, Capcom’s use of new photogrammetry technology for character creation in Dragon’s Dogma 2 points to a significant leap in visual fidelity. This advancement will likely enhance player immersion, allowing for more detailed and lifelike player-created avatars. The game’s expansive open world, coupled with these technological improvements, sets the stage for an experience that is both visually stunning and deeply engaging.
The release date confirmation for Dragon’s Dogma 2 comes as a relief and excitement to fans who have been anticipating the sequel since the original game’s success. The original, released in 2012, garnered a dedicated cult-like following thanks to its unique blend of action-oriented gameplay and deep RPG mechanics. Its expansion, Dark Arisen, further solidified the game’s reputation as a cult classic. The sequel, coming to PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X, aims to build upon this legacy.
In addition to the new gameplay elements and story details, Capcom’s showcase also highlighted the game’s approach to combat and exploration. The developers have integrated features like riding birds to close distances to enemies and attacking from afar using ranged weapons and spells. These gameplay innovations suggest a dynamic and versatile combat system that encourages creative approaches to challenges.
Dragon’s Dogma 2 pre-orders are now open as well for those interested with options including a Standard and Deluxe Edition. The Deluxe Edition offers additional in-game items, such as a special camping kit, which could prove to be a valuable asset for players embarking on this grand adventure.
Ultimately, the sequel promises to deliver an enhanced and expanded experience, building on the foundations laid by its predecessor. With new classes, an engaging storyline, technological advancements, and a dynamic combat system, Dragon’s Dogma 2 could help take advantage of the renewed interest in RPGs, all thanks to Baldur’s Gate 3. Although Dragon’s Dogma 2 isn’t a full-on table-top RPG experience in video game form, it should scratch a similar itch, especially for the more casual fans looking for an expansive narrative-driven experience next year.
Between the release of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth on February 29, 2024 on PlayStation 5 and Dragon’s Dogma 2 on March 22, 2024, RPG fans will be eating good before the fiscal year ends.
