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 advisory role he ultimately plays in the final game.
Thornborrow, who left BioWare in April 2022, contributed significantly to The Veilguard's development by creating a visual novel prototype to explore story possibilities. Over 100 sketches from this prototype, recently added to his online portfolio, depict various characters and scenes. While many elements match the final game, Solas's portrayal differs significantly.
The contrast between concept art and the finished product is striking. The sketches depict Solas less as a dream-visiting advisor and more as a powerful, shadowy figure directly enacting his vengeful plans. Some images show him as an enormous, ominous being, a far cry from his more subtle presence in the released game. The ambiguity surrounding these scenes leaves open the question of whether they represent events within Rook's dreams or manifestations of Fen'Harel's power in the real world.
This behind-the-scenes look offers valuable insight into the game's development. The significant changes from concept to final product highlight the evolution of Solas's character and story arc, particularly given the nearly ten-year gap between Dragon Age: Inquisition and The Veilguard, and the game's late title change from Dragon Age: Dreadwolf. Thornborrow's contribution helps bridge the gap between initial creative visions and the final game experience.
