As the fourth game in a long-running series with a rich, complex world,Dragon Age: The Veilguardis naturally chock-full of lore. From collectible Codex entries to cameo appearances from previous characters,The Veilguardhas plenty of worldbuilding that helps new players feel at home in Thedas and provides series veterans with a sense of homecoming and joy. One element ofThe Veilguard’sworldbuilding that may be overlooked by fans - but should not be ignored - is its Missive system, in which Rook receives letters from characters all around the world.
Missives are introduced midway through Act 1 ofThe Veilguard,and are accessed via the in-game Library menu (in the same location as the Codex and Glossary.) Although it is never stated directly, in-game imagery implies that Missives are delivered by Candlehops, adorable ambulatory spirits frequently used as postmen inTevinter. Rook will generally receive letters after completing side quests or companion quests, and may also get letters from important figures throughout the main story. Players should regularly check to see if they have any new Missives to read, as they are a key source of worldbuilding and information.
Missives Add Depth To The Veilguard’s Cameos
Dragon Age: The Veilguardprimarily focuses on a brand-new cast of characters, but does feature several cameos from previous titles in the series. One of these isThe Inquisitor, the protagonist ofDragon Age: Inquisition.Players can create a customized Inquisitor or import a previously created one into the game.
After briefly meeting up with Rook partway through the game, the Inquisitor will occasionally send Missives. These serve as a great way to keep the Inquisitor relevant and update the player on the situation in southern Thedas as the game progresses. Other returning characters, such asMorriganand Isabela, can also send Rook Missives informing them about their actions and roles in the conflict.
Post Side Quest Missives Make The Veilguard Feel Like Real Heroes
Most side quests will end with a character involved in the quest sending Rook a missive updating them about how they are doing. These are often extremely heartwarming and affirming - a rescuedGrey Wardenis able to resume their duties, or a busker threatened by the Venatori safely escapes Minrathous. As the game’s story gets bleaker and the world is increasingly threatened by the Blight and the elven gods, it is extremely affirming to see that the Veilguard’s heroic actions really are having an impact, even in the smallest of ways.
Of course, there are also a few humorous, bizarre, or even terrifying missives - for example, after defeating a demon called “The Formless One,” part of a multistep side quest for the Mourn Watch faction, the demon takes the time to send Rook an all-caps missive informing the Veilguard that they will be back to get them someday. Checking missives often leads to a much-needed moment of levity amidst all the chaos going on in Thedas.
Finally, Rook can even receive missives from their own companions. This is helpful as it reveals what companions get up to between quests, especiallyNeveand Lucanis, following key plot decisions early in the game. Seeing the tone of these missives shift as Rook completes more companion quests and grows closer to their companions is also a fun piece of worldbuilding that helps the Veilguard feel like more of a family as they continue living and working together and progressing on their mission. Players not wanting to miss a bit ofDragon Age: The Veilguard’sextensive worldbuilding should make sure to check for new missives whenever they stop by the Lighthouse.
