**Introduction: The Dilemma of DA2 Smuggler or Mercenary**
Hello, fellow gamers! If you are a fan of Dragon Age 2, you know that it offers many ways to play the game. One of the most interesting choices you can make is deciding whether to be a smuggler or a mercenary. The question might sound easy at first, but trust me, it’s not as simple as picking the cool-sounding title. So, let’s dive into this choice and see which one might be the best for you in your journey through Kirkwall.
**The Smuggler vs Mercenary: What’s the Difference?**
Okay, let’s break it down. In Dragon Age 2, your character, Hawke, has the option to pick a background that will affect the way people see you and even how you approach certain situations. The Smuggler and Mercenary backgrounds are two such options.
1. **The Smuggler:** This is a more… well, let’s just say “creative” way of getting by in Kirkwall. Being a smuggler means you have connections with shady people, and you know how to move goods (or people) without drawing too much attention. This choice might feel a bit sneaky and tricky but comes with some benefits—like avoiding some of the law’s eyes.
2. **The Mercenary:** On the other hand, being a mercenary means you’re more direct. You get paid for your sword or your skills, and you don’t mind getting involved in fights. This path often leads to more straightforward combat situations and connections with groups like the mercenary guild. If you love a good fight, this is the path for you.
**How Does This Choice Affect Your Gameplay?**
Choosing between being a smuggler or mercenary changes the way you experience the game. The smuggler background opens up opportunities for stealth and avoiding combat in certain areas. It might also offer some alternative solutions to problems, giving you a chance to solve issues quietly or with a bit of trickery.
Meanwhile, the mercenary background gives you more direct combat-focused missions. You will face tough fights but might earn better rewards for your efforts. For those who love charging into the fray and enjoying the rush of battle, this is a great pick.
**The Influence of Setting and Platform on the Experience**
Whether you’re playing DA2 on PC, Xbox, or PlayStation, the core gameplay remains the same, but your experience might feel a bit different depending on the platform. For example, the controls and combat feel smoother on PC, and some players report a slightly easier time dodging or attacking in a more fluid way. This can make the mercenary path feel a bit more satisfying, as you get into more intense battles.
On consoles, the combat might feel a little less responsive, which could make the smuggler route more appealing. You don’t always need to fight directly, and using your environment to sneak past enemies can make your journey a bit more relaxing.
**What Do Players Think About Smuggler vs Mercenary?**
So, what do players think about this dilemma? Well, feedback is mixed! Some love the challenge and excitement that comes with being a mercenary, especially those who like taking on big fights and seeing how their strength can shape the story.
Others prefer the smuggler background, citing how it allows them to avoid unnecessary combat and make smarter decisions. Many players enjoy the sense of mystery that comes with being involved in under-the-table dealings. It’s fun, they say, to sneak around Kirkwall and find alternative ways to handle problems.
But, like every choice in life, there are no perfect answers. Some players feel frustrated when they want to be a mercenary but are forced into stealthy situations that take away the fun of fighting. Meanwhile, those who choose the smuggler background sometimes miss the action-packed moments that the mercenary path offers.
**What’s the Best Solution for You?**
Here’s my advice: Don’t stress too much about it. Both paths are fun, and neither is “better” than the other. The choice really depends on what kind of playstyle you enjoy most.
– If you love sneaking around, outsmarting people, and avoiding direct confrontations, choose the **Smuggler** route. It’s more about finesse and cunning than brute force. Plus, you might find yourself laughing at how you can solve problems without even drawing a sword.
– If you’re the type who likes action, the thrill of battle, and direct confrontations, then the **Mercenary** path might be for you. It’s about fighting your way through the game and earning your respect through strength and valor.
**Community Feedback: What Are Other Players Saying?**
On various forums and social media platforms, players share their experiences, and you’ll find some interesting debates. For example, some players argue that the smuggler route gives you more control over the story, as you can avoid certain fights and still get the job done. Others say that the mercenary path offers a more fulfilling experience, especially in terms of earning rewards and progressing through intense combat scenarios.
Many players agree that the smuggler route can feel a bit slower at times, while the mercenary path has more immediate action and rewards.
**Final Thoughts: Smuggler or Mercenary?**
To wrap things up, I’d say both choices are fun in their own way. If you’re playing for the story and prefer a bit of strategy, smuggler might be the right choice for you. But if you’re in it for the thrill of battle and want to feel like a hero swinging a sword, mercenary will give you exactly what you need.
**What about you? Have you ever chosen between smuggler and mercenary? What was your experience? Drop a comment below and let us know how you feel about this choice in DA2. We’d love to hear your thoughts!**
