Reviving Cassandra: A New Chapter for Dragon Age’s Beloved Character Amidst Challenges
Additionally, the most and least adored characters in sports are unveiled.
David Gaider, the creator of Dragon Age, has shared insights on taking over the writing of the beloved recurring character Cassandra in Dragon Age Inquisition, after a colleague at BioWare departed.
In Gaider’s latest and seemingly concluding social media thread discussing the characters he contributed to in the series, the former franchise leader noted that cementing Cassandra’s romantic storyline had proven challenging.
Initially, Cassandra was penned in Inquisition by Jennifer Hepler, a former member of the series who had previously worked on Origins, Awakening, and Dragon Age 2. However, Hepler left BioWare during the development of Inquisition “around the time when a group of GamerGate individuals decided Jennifer was somehow accountable for ALL of BioWare’s issues,” Gaider explained. “The outcome was a GREAT deal of horrifying harassment.”
“Is this the reason she departed? You’d have to inquire with her, but it certainly didn’t assist,” he continued. “The crucial point is, she left – and there was no one as experienced or as remarkably quick as her to take over any unfinished tasks.”
Ultimately, Gaider stepped in to write for Cassandra himself, but expressed difficulties with how a “pious, self-righteous character” could possess romantic appeal. The breakthrough came after he encountered a webcomic created by a fan that humorously suggested Cassandra was somewhat of a fangirl for Varric’s literature.
CHARACTERS – Day Nine: Cassandra
This marks the last of the (main) characters I crafted during my tenure on Dragon Age. I could rush into others and considered transitioning onto Stray Gods… but I believe fewer might generate interest, and I truly can no longer defend the race. So let’s consider this the final, for now.
— David Gaider (@davidgaider.bsky.social) November 28, 2024 at 8:59 AM
This prompted Gaider to reassess Cassandra’s “idealistic and clumsy affection,” as well as the fact that she had placed the player character – the Inquisitor – on a “messianic pedestal” for being the Herald of Andraste and head of the Inquisition. In the final game, forming a romantic relationship with Cassandra primarily requires the Inquisitor to convince her that they can be a typical romantic partner as well as fulfill all…