Dragon’s Dogma 2: Do you need to play first game?

Dragon’s Dogma 2 arrives 12 years after the release of the original cult-classic RPG from Capcom. The sequel builds on the original in every aspect and also expands its universe. So, if you’re looking to explore the series starting with the sequel, here’s whether you need to play the first game to understand Dragon’s Dogma 2.

After years of requests from fans, Capcom’s Monster Hunter-inspired RPG series has returned with Dragon’s Dogma 2. The long-awaited title brings back familiar mechanics like Pawns, Vocations, and character creation. It lets players take on the role of the Arisen, a hero destined to defeat a fearsome dragon and fulfill an age-old prophecy.

There’s plenty of lore attached to the game’s universe, and it also has some unique gameplay features that newcomers might struggle with. With this in mind, here’s whether you need to play the first game to enjoy Dragon’s Dogma 2.

Do you need to play Dragon’s Dogma 1 before DD2?

No, it is not necessary to play the first game in order to enjoy Dragon’s Dogma 2. This means that you can boot up the RPG and understand its major story beats while having little knowledge of 2012’s Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen.

The devs wanted the sequel to be accessible for newcomers and they achieved this, in part, by giving your character amnesia as stated by game director Hideaki Itsuno.

During an interview with GamesRadar+, Itsuno stated, “The game starts off with a main character who has lost their memory,” allowing the NPCs around you to give you the lay of the land, “characters around you explain things to get you up to speed. So even if this is your first time playing Dragon’s Dogma, you can safely dive in.” 

It’s also worth noting that the game takes place in a parallel world to the 2012 original, providing a perfect entry point for newcomers.

That was all you need to know about if you need to play the first game before Dragon’s Dogma 2. For more on the RPG, check out:

Is Dragon’s Dogma 2 on Xbox Game Pass? | Dragon’s Dogma 2 PC system requirements | Does Dragon’s Dogma 2 have romance? | Dragon’s Dogma 2 timed quests explained | What is a Moniker in Dragon’s Dogma 2? | Will Dragon’s Dogma 2 be on PS4 and Xbox One?