This 40-Hour Chaotic Fantasy Is the Perfect Binge for Skyrim Fans

It’s hard to believe, but it has been a full 15 years since The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim first debuted. Widely celebrated as one of Bethesda’s greatest achievements, the game remains a juggernaut; according to SteamDB’s concurrent player trackers, the Special Edition still consistently draws nearly 30,000 daily users. Sustaining that kind of momentum on a single platform over a decade and a half is a testament to Skyrim’s legendary status.

If you are craving a fresh experience that still captures the essence of the Dragonborn’s epic journey, Dragon’s Dogma 2 is the perfect candidate. As the title suggests, dragons are central to the experience. You step into the role of the “Arisen”—a fated hero tasked with a perilous quest to confront one of the realm’s most formidable draconic beasts.

Beyond the dragon threat, the game’s world is defined by a complex political struggle between two distinct nations: the lush, vibrant landscapes of Vermund and the harsh, unforgiving deserts of Battahl. Both territories are brimming with character, unique wildlife, and a wealth of engaging side quests to uncover.

You won’t be tackling this adventure alone, thanks to the “Pawn” system—a standout mechanic that lets you command a party of AI companions. Because both you and your Pawns can adopt various “vocations” (classes), the strategic possibilities for combat are immense, allowing you to tailor your approach to any threat.

For those who prioritize exploration, this game is a paradise. While fast travel is intentionally limited, the world is so beautifully crafted that the journey itself is often as exhilarating as the destination.

Skyrim fans will find a familiar rhythm here. Dragon’s Dogma 2 possesses a certain “jank” that might take a moment to adjust to—expect some hilariously unpredictable physics—but its quirks quickly become part of the charm. As noted in our original review, it is arguably the best fantasy adventure to arrive since Elden Ring, confidently rising above its imperfections to deliver something truly special.

There has never been a better time to dive in. On Oct. 9, the highly anticipated Dark Arisen expansion arrives, introducing the snowy region of Norgan. This update promises to expand the scope of the adventure, bringing fresh dungeon challenges and a narrative centered on a compelling new character, Eir.

While not on sale this very second, Dragon’s Dogma 2 is frequently discounted to under $30 on Steam. Alternatively, you can secure the base game along with the upcoming Dark Arisen expansion bundle for $49.99 ahead of its autumn release.

Related

Dragon’s Dogma 2 update addresses one of the game’s biggest frustrations

Teleporting across the map just became a whole lot easier.

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Source: Polygon