Dark Horse is bringing the video game series Dragon Age to life in a new monthly ongoing series, coinciding with the events of the latest game, Dragon Age Inquisition. The continent of Thedas is coming to life once more, but is it good?
Dragon Age: Magekiller #1 (Dark Horse Comics)
Although the series is set at the same time period as Inquisition, it doesn’t follow the story of the game; rather, it runs parallel following the journeys of two mage hunters, Marius and Tessa. Marius is the silent, deadly type and Tessa’s his more talkative and relatable companion. We only see bits and pieces of the relationship dynamic since this is the first issue, but it is intriguing and sets up the mysteries of the protagonists’ backgrounds well enough that I’m curious for the next issue.
The title of the book, Magekiller, refers to the jobs of the two leads and to a greater extent the Dragon Age world in general. Magic has always been a source of conflict in this world, as it should be in most fantasy. Not so much that dark wizards are behind every corner waiting to strike, but the natural tension between someone who had these powers and someone who didn’t and the unfair advantage it would bring into any situation. You’d think fantasy in general would have worn this trope out, but more often than not it’s the magician and not the magic that’s feared. It would seem to be the obvious source of most conflict in any fantasy world, but it’s really put under the lens in Dragon Age and made the focal point.
Writer Greg Rucka, who has worked on everything from Batman to Hellboy to Daredevil, certainly has the experience and talent to make this an enjoyable series. The first issue is quick paced and tight and ends with you wanting more, as should be the case.
Is It Good?
Fans of the game may find a little more here; certain references and an understanding of the general dynamic of the world. However, this title is written well and there is an opportunity for the characters and story to be really interesting going forward for any reader. Fans of fantasy have something to look forward to in the coming months.
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