Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen
OpenCritic
Strong
IGDB
Players
OpenCritic Score
Score Distribution
"Character customization, combat, and the weird story and brilliant end-game all make this one of my favorite action-RPG's of all time. Meanwhile, the Dark Arisen changes make the game somewhat more traversable and streamlined, turning a fun but frustrating game into something far more enjoyable. There's nothing really new here, but it's great to finally have the game on PC."
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About Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen
Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen is an action RPG set in a dark fantasy world, combining the original 2012 game and its sequel's content. Released in 2013, it’s built by Capcom for PS3, PS4, PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Switch. The game throws you into a vast open world filled with eerie landscapes and challenging enemies. You play as the Arisen, a warrior with a mysterious link to the story, supported by AI partners called Pawns. These Pawns adapt to your playstyle and can be shared or borrowed online. The game adds Bitterblack Isle from the sequel, with tougher quests and gear. It’s a grind-heavy RPG with a focus on fast-paced combat and exploration.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around combat, exploration, and side quests. You control the Arisen using a real-time action system with a stamina-based attack/parry mechanic. Pawns fight autonomously, their skills evolving based on your choices. Missions vary from monster hunts to narrative-driven quests, often requiring specific Pawn builds. The Bitterblack Isle introduces high-level enemies and gear, demanding precise tactics. Battles involve chaining combos, dodging attacks, and using environment hazards. The game encourages experimentation with weapon skills and Pawn synergies. Sessions typically last 3, 5 hours, blending combat, puzzle-solving, and traversal. The camera and control responsiveness are praised, though the open world can feel sparse compared to later RPGs.
What Players Think
Community ratings average 79.8/100 (IGDB), with 185 reviews. 34% of players rate it 9/10 or higher, while 12% give 5/10 or lower. The most common moods are "Creepy" (3 votes) and "Dark" (1 vote). Average playtime is 42 hours, with 21.5% of players unlocking achievements. Of 59 total, the rarest, "The Sprinter", is unlocked by just 1.3%. Review snippets highlight "intense but fair combat" and "Pawns that feel genuinely alive." Critics note it’s "a brutal grind" but "rewarding for completionists." The Bitterblack Isle content is split in reception, some call it "epic," others "repetitive."
PlayPile's Take
Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen is best for fans of challenging, story-driven RPGs with deep combat. It’s not a casual pick, average playtime hits 42 hours, and the rarest achievement unlocks at 1.3%. The Pawn system is its standout feature, offering dynamic companions that evolve with your play. Price varies by platform, but the content justifies it for dedicated players. However, if you dislike grinding or expect a dense open world, it might fall short. With 59 achievements and a 79.8 score, it’s a niche hit for those who enjoy blending action and RPG elements in a dark, atmospheric world.
Game Modes
Single player
IGDB Rating
79.8
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12Community Moods
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