EA shows off Dragon Age: Inquisition "action" and "tactical" combat modes at E3

We had a look at Dragon Age: Inquisition earlier today during the Microsoft press event, when BioWare asked if we would lead or fall. Electronic Arts has now given us a bit of a closer look at the game, including two very different ways that players will be able to take on combat.

Electronic Arts got its E3 presser rolling with nothing less than a real-life cellist playing beneath a massive video screen showing off a new Dragon Age: Inquisition trailer, and regardless of how you feel about the franchise, the effect was undeniably cool. When the theatrics ended, BioWare's Aaryn Flynn then explained that the upcoming game represents the studio's new approach to RPG development, "combining powerful narratives with expansive, open-world gameplay, so you can explore and discover with more freedom than ever before."

To that end, Flynn jumped into battle to demonstrate two very different approaches to getting the job done: An "action" mode featuring an over-the-shoulder third-person view of combat, and a turn-based "tactical" mode allowing for more of an "eye-in-the-sky" approach to leadership.

EA wrapped things by emphasizing the eclectic mix of characters who will form the Inquisition, including a Grey Warden, a "wild card" Elf, a massive Qunari and a fearsome mage. After the mixed reaction to Dragon Age 2, Dragon Age: Inquisition looks set to be a very powerful comeback for the franchise.

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Andy has been gaming on PCs from the very beginning, starting as a youngster with text adventures and primitive action games on a cassette-based TRS80. From there he graduated to the glory days of Sierra Online adventures and Microprose sims, ran a local BBS, learned how to build PCs, and developed a longstanding love of RPGs, immersive sims, and shooters. He began writing videogame news in 2007 for The Escapist and somehow managed to avoid getting fired until 2014, when he joined the storied ranks of PC Gamer. He covers all aspects of the industry, from new game announcements and patch notes to legal disputes, Twitch beefs, esports, and Henry Cavill. Lots of Henry Cavill.