Early Dragon Age: The Veilguard Concept Art Reveals a Darker Solas
Early concept sketches by former BioWare artist Nick Thornborrow offer a glimpse into the evolution of Solas's character in Dragon Age: The Veilguard. These sketches, showcased on Thornborrow's website, reveal a more overtly vengeful and god-like Solas than the advisor role he ultimately plays in the final game.
Thornborrow, who departed BioWare in April 2022, contributed to The Veilguard's development by creating a visual novel prototype to explore story possibilities. Over 100 sketches from this prototype depict various characters and scenes, some of which underwent significant changes before the game's release.
Solas, initially introduced in Dragon Age: Inquisition as a helpful companion, is revealed as a traitor with plans to destroy the Veil. While the core plot point of Solas's attempt to tear the Veil remains consistent between concept and final game, his portrayal differs significantly. The sketches depict Solas as a colossal, shadowy figure, far more menacing than his advisory role in the released game. The ambiguity remains whether these more powerful depictions represent events within Rook's dreams or actual occurrences in the real world.
The contrast between the concept art and the final game highlights the significant evolution The Veilguard's narrative underwent during development. This behind-the-scenes look helps fans understand the creative process and the potential darker aspects of Solas's hidden agenda that were ultimately refined or omitted from the final product. The release of these sketches bridges the gap between initial creative visions and the game's final form, offering a fascinating insight into the game's development.
