Feels like the old "paper and pencil" games. Character interactions are interesting and help move the plot.
Graphics are solid and magic effects are very interesting. Gore spatter and blood pools a bit overwhelming, which, in part, earns the game its M rating. When a character or companion defeats a boss in a big battle, the final attack is slowed for better camera shots. Controls are easy to use, and the toolbar is easily modified. That being said, the toolbar slots are limited and, as far as I can tell, only the first 10 are tied directly to the keypad. All others must be pointer selected. Documentation on this portion of gameplay is somewhat limited.
Decisions made within the game by the player affect both relationships with their companions and also with NPCs, which can mean either rewards or assassins coming your way. They also affect future events and future quest possibilities, making for a game that includes a bit of brain power to play to its fullest.
As a rule, I prefer solo play, no side-kicks, no hangers on, mano a mano against the beasties, but this game grows the more the main character interacts with his or her companions. It is this interactive quality that sets Dragon Age apart from other games of this genre. Party approval levels span the gamut from betrayal to love, and the better the companions like the main character, the more likely it is that they will work for him/her, the more "personal" information they will share, and the more companion quests open up for play. Party approval also opens up "romance" opportunities, which includes cut-scenes in a tent. Keep in mind, this game is rated for mature players as the game is non-gender biased when it comes to tent opportunities...some of the companions have no real preference, and will go to the tent with same-sex player characters if invited ... a very bold move on the part of Bioware.
I've played through the game twice now, and only quit because I got a copy of Dragon Age: Awakening...more on that game later.