Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s ending is considered one of the standout moments in the game, if not the entire series. However, the secret ending that can be unlocked by completing specific side quests and discovering certain artifacts has sparked some controversy among fans. After unlocking the scene, some fans expressed concerns about how it seems to alter the history of the series. In response to this, The Veilguard’s creative director, John Epler, has attempted to clarify some interpretations of the scene. Spoilers ahead!
The secret ending involves illustrations of key moments from the Dragon Age series that are shown after the credits roll. These moments include Loghain’s betrayal of the Grey Wardens in Dragon Age: Origins, Bartrand stealing the lyrium idol in Dragon Age II, and Corypheus tearing The Breach into the sky in Inquisition. However, these scenes are depicted with cloaked figures known as the Executors, suggesting that they have been manipulating events in the Dragon Age universe. Some fans have interpreted this to mean that the Executors have been controlling the villains of each game to serve their own purposes.
Epler addressed this misconception on Bluesky, using the ROT13 cipher to hide spoilers for those who have not completed the game. His message explained that while the Executors may have influenced events over the years, characters like Loghain, Bartrand, and Corypheus acted of their own free will. He emphasized that the characters made their own choices and must face the consequences, as Dragon Age is ultimately about individuals making decisions and dealing with the outcomes.
The extent of the Executors’ influence on past Dragon Age villains and their motives remain unclear. There is a theory that they may be connected to the Forgotten Ones, elven gods who were no longer worshipped by contemporary elves before The Veilguard events. The post-credits scene strongly hints that the Executors will play a significant role in the next Dragon Age game, though the release of the game is likely years away as BioWare focuses on the upcoming fifth Mass Effect installment.
Overall, the secret ending of The Veilguard has sparked discussion among fans about the nature of free will and manipulation in the Dragon Age universe. As players eagerly await the next installment in the series, the mysteries surrounding the Executors and their motives continue to intrigue and captivate the community.
