The world of Dragon Age: Inquisition offers more than just epic battles and political intrigue; it is also a treasure trove for those who wish to delve into its rich environments for hidden gems that add flair to your castle's aesthetics. Decorative items, often called "Decorative Gems," provide a unique opportunity to personalize Skyhold or any other Inquisition stronghold. This guide will walk you through the meticulous process of discovering and utilizing these decorative pieces to enhance your gameplay experience.
Why Decorative Gems Matter
In Dragon Age: Inquisition, decorative items are more than mere visual enhancements. Here’s why they are significant:
- Personalization: They allow for customization, making Skyhold reflect the personality and choices of the player.
- Environmental Storytelling: The choice and placement of decorations tell a story about your Inquisition’s history and victories.
- Incentive for Exploration: Searching for these items encourages thorough exploration of the game’s vast world.
- Engagement: Finding and placing these gems can deepen the engagement with the game, as they are tangible rewards for exploration and quests.
Locating Decorative Gems
Here are the primary locations where players can discover Decorative Gems:
Quest Rewards
Several side quests and companion quests in the game offer decorative items as rewards. Here are notable quests:
- Heraldry from a Herald: This quest rewards you with an emblem for your throne, symbolizing the Inquisition’s influence.
- The Abyssal High Dragon: Upon defeating this dragon, you receive the High Dragon’s Head as a decorative piece.
Exploring Maps
Many of these gems are hidden in plain sight or require some exploration:
- Western Approach: Discover statues of Orzammar’s Paragons.
- Crestwood: You can find banners commemorating victories and alliances.
- The Hinterlands: Unlock murals depicting legendary stories and events.
- Exalted Plains: There are war relics from ancient battles.
- The Forbidden Oasis: This area houses elaborate mosaics that can be pieced together for display.
Codex Entries
Some gems are tied to codex entries, providing lore and history:
- Flags or banners often have codex entries detailing their origins and significance.
Collecting Crafting Materials
By harvesting plants or collecting rare materials, you might also find:
- Unique stones or minerals for crafting decorative displays.
💡 Note: Keep an eye out for interactive objects in the environment; they might contain items of decorative value.
Enemies and Loot
Some decorative pieces can be acquired by defeating rare or unique enemies:
- High dragons drop heads and other parts that can be displayed.
- Notable creatures like the Greater Rift Terror drop peculiar items.
Setting Up Your Decorative Display
Once you’ve collected these gems, setting them up in Skyhold or your stronghold involves:
- Navigating to the Stronghold: Access the area of Skyhold where you wish to place your decorations.
- Decoration Menu: Open the decoration menu to see available slots for decor placement.
- Selection: Choose the item you want to display from your inventory.
- Placement: Select where you want the item to go. Some items might have multiple placement options.
- Confirm: Confirm your choice to see your decorations in place.
Combining Decorative Elements
To create a unique aesthetic:
- Match items based on theme or color.
- Try different combinations to find what resonates with your character’s story or your vision.
- Remember that certain items might require specific prerequisites or quests to be completed.
💡 Note: If an item does not appear in your decoration menu, it might be because you haven't met the prerequisites yet.
As you delve deeper into Dragon Age: Inquisition, these decorative gems will not only serve as a record of your achievements but also as a way to express your creativity within the game. The joy of discovery, the satisfaction of placement, and the visual appeal they add to Skyhold are all part of the immersive experience that Dragon Age: Inquisition provides. Through this guide, you're now equipped with the knowledge to hunt down these hidden treasures and use them to make your mark on the world of Thedas.
In summary, while focusing on battling and leading the Inquisition, take the time to appreciate the beauty that lies within the game's landscapes. These decorative gems are there for you to find, collect, and showcase. They not only beautify your stronghold but also enrich your experience with a sense of accomplishment and pride.
Can I remove decorative items once placed?
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Yes, you can remove or replace any decorative item at any time through the decoration menu in your stronghold.
Are there decorative items exclusive to certain DLCs?
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Yes, some decorations are available only through DLC content. For example, the Trespasser DLC introduces unique items like the Veil Stone.
Do decorative items affect gameplay?
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No, decorative items are purely cosmetic and do not influence gameplay or the game’s mechanics. They are for personalization only.
How do I know what items I can still find?
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Check your journal or codex entries; they often provide clues or reminders of items yet to be discovered or prerequisites for obtaining them.
Can I trade decorative items with other players?
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No, Dragon Age: Inquisition does not support trading items between players.
