Dragon Age II is a sequel to Dragon Age: Origins .
The story takes place several years after the events of the first game. Hawke's family shares the fate with many other Ferelden refugees, and they are met with suspicion in the city of Kirkwall. The appearance of the Qunari and growing tension between Templars and mages add to the conflicts Hawke must navigate.
The gameplay features a "framed narrative" format, where the story is narrated over a decade later by one of Hawke's companions. The player's moral choices during the game influence the motivations and events, similar to Alpha Protocol and Mass Effect . The combat system has been sped up, with a customizable party and character class.
The player controls Hawke, a human, and can customize their physical appearance and classes (warrior, mage, or rogue). Up to three active party members can be controlled, with the ability to assign actions or issue commands manually. The ability tree allows players to learn new abilities as characters level up, divided into various disciplines that correspond to fighting styles.