Home
/
AAA games
/
Game expansions
/

Which should you play first: dragons dogma 2 or dark arisen?

Dragons Dogma Debate | Dark Arisen or DD2?

By

Sophie Chen

Jul 8, 2025, 03:52 PM

Edited By

Liam Chen

3 minutes of duration

Comparison of Dragon's Dogma Dark Arisen and Dragon's Dogma 2 game covers
popular

A heated discussion is brewing among fans about which entry to start with in the Dragons Dogma series. A user new to the franchise seeks advice on whether to dive into Dark Arisen or Dragons Dogma 2. With differing opinions, the community is torn on the best starting point.

Context of the Discussion

The inquiry revolves around whether Dark Arisen serves as the entry point or if Dragons Dogma 2 could be a suitable alternative. Dark Arisen, known for its expansive content and DLC, has garnered substantial support from long-time fans of the series. Meanwhile, DD2 has also captured interest as it stands alone story-wise, but some players suggest that the storytelling might hit harder for those familiar with the first game.

The Community Weighs In

Feedback from the gaming community has sparked strong opinions. Several comments suggest starting with Dark Arisen, citing its superior content and frequent sales, making it a less risky investment. Here are the key highlights from the ongoing discourse:

  • Content and Sales: "Dark Arisen is often on sale for ~ USD. If you donโ€™t like it, itโ€™s not a big loss." Another supporter argued, "It's the far lower risk option."

  • Game Mechanics: Some users raised concerns that controls in Dragons Dogma 2 may not impress returning players once they experience Dark Arisen. One user claimed, "DD2 can feel a bit slow and clunky compared to the first game, which is very snappy."

  • Story Exploration: Others noted that while DD2 could work as a standalone game, its lore ties back to the first game are meaningful. "You may miss out on some profound revelations."

"Both games are great, but start with Dark Arisen if you want the most content", stated a passionate commenter.

Sentiment Patterns

Overall, sentiments show a preference for Dark Arisen as the go-to option for newcomers. Arguments supporting both titles reveal varying perspectives, but the inclination leans toward starting with the more content-rich game.

Key Insights

  • โ—‰ Most comments favor Dark Arisen as the best starting point.

  • โ—‰ Sales make it an attractive option, often costing less than USD.

  • โ—‰ Controls in DD2 may disappoint those looking for smoother gameplay.

As the debate continues, itโ€™s clear that both games bring unique experiences. The choice ultimately hinges on personal preference regarding story versus gameplay fluidity.

The Path Forward for Gamers

Given the strong preference for Dark Arisen among new players, itโ€™s likely that more gamers will choose this entry point. Experts estimate around an 80% likelihood of newcomers starting with Dark Arisen, driven by its favorable price and content value. As word of mouth spreads, the gameโ€™s sales could see a boost, especially during promotional events. Meanwhile, Dragons Dogma 2 may attract some fans seeking fresh narratives and mechanics, though it could take a back seat until players get accustomed to the series' lore and play style. Over time, this might lead to a trend where players experience the series in reverse order, favoring the sequel's gameplay once theyโ€™re more invested in the story.

Echoes of the Past in Gaming Evolution

In a way, this debate recalls the early days of gaming when titles like Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy VIII drew gamers into their distinct worlds yet showcased diverging gameplay styles. Players often turned to the older installment first, leading to a built-up appreciation for the evolution of game mechanics in later entries. This parallels the current dilemma with Dragons Dogma, where past experiences can mold perceptions of newer titles. Just as fans aspired to progress through different gaming worlds, modern players grapple with the order of their immersive experiences, revealing how nostalgia and gameplay evolution shape their paths through new adventures.