Ten Ton Hammer - Taking MMO Gamers to the Next Level!

The release date of BioWare's Dragon Age: Origins is just over a month away and gamers around the globe can't wait. Whether you're itching to play it on a PC or console (PS3 owners will have to wait a couple of extra weeks), one thing is for certain. The class you choose will play an important role in how you view yourself within the world of Thedas. As you level your character up, you'll have the opportunity to unlock specializations within your chosen class which will in turn open up even more abilities. Not all the details we would want to know have been released yet, but here's what we know so far.

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The Mage

Intense training and discipline make up the foundation of a mage. Without either one, the magic would rule the mage, rather than the other way around. The mages of Thedas are distrusted by many and feared by nearly all. All mages wishing to pursue studies of more powerful magics must undergo a mysterious ritual called The Harrowing. Those that choose to follow the paths of magic and gain control of the forces within them make valuable allies and fearsome enemies.

Restrictions: Due to their natural resistance to magic, dwarves are unable to cast spells. Because of this, dwarves cannot be mages.

Class Benefits: +5 Magic, +4 Willpower, +1 Cunning

Specializations: Shapeshifter, Spirit Healer

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The Shapeshifter

Despite what the Circle of Magi would like to believe, the art of shifting one's form is very much alive. Passed down from generation to generation, the skill of changing into animal form has survived the ages. Shapeshifters must master one form at a time. Bears, wildcats, spiders, and birds are the most common forms taken, while legend states that some shifters have been known to take on more fantastical forms. The mastery of their own bodies provides the Shapeshifter with some added protection, even in their human forms.

Specializations Bonus: +2 Constitution, +1 Armor

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The Spirit Healer

Details concerning the Spirit Master are currently scarce, but rumors abound about the powers this specialization will allow the mage that chooses it. Will they be able to cast protective shields over their comrades, heal their wounds, or perhaps even rescue their friends from the cold hands of death? Only time will tell.