Mainstream
Dragon Age Inquisition: Which Old Companions Will Return?
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BioWare has recently announced that basically any old character could return to Dragon Age Inquisition, as long as it makes sense in the upcoming narrative. This means that many surprises are yet to come since anyone and especially all the previous companions could return. How? Well, the answer is simple, as I discussed in my previous article about Dragon Age 3 (DA3), the whole story is still being created, which means that the future of every character is not decided yet, thus everyone could get a meaningful purpose in Inquisition. However, there are certainly some characters with stronger probabilities to return compared to others, some due to their past, others due to their beliefs and orientations.
To do this prevision, I’ll use a small quota based on the character’s appearance in the previous games (APG), romance options (RO) and relevant background story that could easily fit in the upcoming plot (RBS). The explanation for the first two variables is basically because characters that are seen more than once have a higher chance to be seen again and all the companions that have been seen twice had romance options enabled. The third variable is related to what cinematic director, Jonathan Perry stated about having a meaningful presence in Inquisition. I’ll be adding an eventual variable in special cases.
Note: 0 is bad, 1 is decent and 2 is good.
Let’s find out about who are the most probable companions to be seen again in the upcoming Dragon Age Inquisition.
Alistair has become the king of Ferelden (in most cases) and as so, he is an imperative icon in the modern history of Thedas. When it comes to global matters that afflict the land, Alistair has to be summoned; he is one of the major political characters of Dragon Age, which makes me convinced that he’ll return. He did return in DA2, the standard story presented him as the king of Ferelden and I believe the same will happen in DA3.
Probability to Return: 2/2 (APG) + 2/2 (RO) + 2/2 (RBS) = 100% – Alistair Will Return
Anders had a very significant role in DA2 and he was seen before in DA Awakening, however there’s a high chance that his journey finishes at the end of DA2. But, I believe that he could have survived, after all he’s a specialized healer and he has a spirit inside himself. He is the great responsible for the start of this war and it would make perfect sense to see him return and support his fellow mages.
Probability to Return: 2/2 (APG) + 2/2 (RO) + 2/2 (RBS) – 2/2 (Death Possibility) = 75% – Anders Will Most Likely Return
Aveline has been a close friend of Hawk since the beginning of the fifth blight, however her background story is quite irrelevant regarding the templar-mage war, in fact she is a fair and reasonable woman and she will protect people no matter they’re class or orientation, as long as reason is with them. I don’t think Aveline will return to Inquistion.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 0/2 (RO) + 0/2 (RBS) = 16% – Aveline Won’t Return
Bethany is Hawk’s sister and she dies at the start of DA2 if players choose to be a mage, however she has a strong background story, she’s another mage on the run. She was able to escape The Circle, but at a high price – running from templars has become part of her daily routine. I doubt Bethany will return to the third game.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 0/2 (RO) + 2/2 (RBS) – 2/2 (Death Possibility) = 12% – Bethany Won’t Return
The same can be said about Carver, he’s Hawk’s brother and if players choose to be a warrior or rogue, Carver dies. He hates mages and he has troubles dealing with Hawk, simply because he is one. I don’t think we’ll be seeing this character again.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 0/2 (RO) + 2/2 (RBS) – 2/2 (Death Possibility) = 12% – Carver Won’t Return
Dog was an animal companion and fighter in Dragon Age Origins. It was saved by the Warden during the blight and he kept the animal. It would be funny to see this brave canine once again but I don’t think it has any relevance in the upcoming plot.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 0/2 (RO) + 0/2 (RBS) = 16% – Dog Won’t Return
7. Fenris (DA2, Warrior):
Fenris has a profound hate for every single mage out there, after all mages have ruined his life and destroyed his family. He has every motive to destroy those gifted with magic and he is willing to fight for the templar’s cause no matter what. However, Fenris has shown compassion for mages able to control their powers, which sadly are a rare species.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 2/2 (RO) + 2/2 (RBS) = 83% – Fenris Will Most Likely Return
8. Isabela (DA2, Assassin):
Isabela is a seductive pirate and she has a long history in the Dragon Age series already. She had a great role in DA2, since she messed with the Qunari people and stole their sacred book. Her personal story isn’t that significant towards the new war but she will surely start trouble somewhere, I believe she will return.
Probability to Return: 2/2 (APG) + 2/2 (RO) + 1/2 (RBS) = 83% – Isabela Will Most Likely Return
9. Leliana (DA1, Bard):
Leliana is a bard with a lot of faith in the lord. At the end of DA2, it was revealed that Cassandra and Leliana were looking for the great heroes of Thedas, in order to put an end to the mage-templar war. Cassandra will surely return, it has been announced by Bioware. Leliana may return, even though nothing has been announced so far, things are quite bright for her.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 2/2 (RO) + 2/2 (RBS) = 83% – Leliana Will Most Likely Return
10. Morrigan (DA1, Shapeshifter):
Morrigan is the devil and the saint, the fire and the water… this female mage has everything with her and even though there was no sign of her during DA2, it’s confirmed that she’ll be back in Inquisition and possibly with a great role.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 2/2 (RO) + 2/2 (RBS) + 1 (Announced) = 100% – Morrigan Will Return
This cute mage had a terrible experience with demons and blood magic but Hawk managed to save her in time. Merrill may be stubborn and naïve but she will always fight for her own. I’m not sure if BioWare will bring her back but her chances are quite positive.
Probability to Return: 2/2 (APG) + 2/2 (RO) + 1/2 (RBS) = 83% – Merrill Will Most Likely Return
Oghren was part of DA1 and its expansion; he was always a fearless dwarf able to use his double weapon without any hesitation. His background isn’t that significant and I doubt that Inquisition will bring him back.
Probability to Return: 2/2 (APG) + 0/2 (RO) + 0/2 (RBS) = 33% – Oghren Probably Won’t Return
This strange Qunari showed himself a loyal servant during the fifth blight but he barely revealed anything about himself during his service time. Somehow he manages to step up and lead his people after the fall of their previous leader.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 0/2 (RO) + 0/2 (RBS) + 2 (Sten becomes the Qunari Arishok after DA2 events) = 50% – Sten May Return
Varric was one of the main stars of DA2. He was the one narrating the whole Hawk’s journey, his/her ascendance and his/her disappearance. If before there were any doubt about his returning, with BioWare’s demo, then there’s none. Varric won’t just return, he’ll be a possible companion as well.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 0/2 (RO) + 1/2 (RBS) + 4 (Announced) = 100% – Varric Will Return
Wynne was a kind healer back on Origins, she accompanied the Warden during his/her mission, however she presented decaying signs, meaning she knew very well her death was close. Her end was inevitable… She died during the Dragon Age novel Asunder.
Probability to Return: 1/2 (APG) + 0/2 (RO) + 1/2 (RBS) – 2 (Deceased) = 0% – Wynne Won’t Return
The shameless assassin, Zevran, he’ll probably return, especially because he came back in DA2 and he even had a special quest where he flirted with Hawk! That’s a great sign right? Who knows if there won’t be another chance for a threesome with Zevran.
Probability to Return: 2/2 (APG) + 2/2 (RO) + 1/2 (RBS) – 1 (Death Possibility) = 83% – Zevran Will Most Likely Return
Mainstream
How Long Is an NBA Basketball Game?
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Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world, and the National Basketball Association (NBA) is its premier league. For fans and newcomers alike, understanding the structure and duration of an NBA game is essential to fully appreciate the excitement and strategy involved. So, how long is an NBA basketball game? While the answer might seem straightforward, there are several factors that influence the total time.
The Basics: Game Structure
An NBA game is divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes. This means the actual playing time is 48 minutes. However, the total duration of a game is significantly longer due to various stoppages, breaks, and additional rules.
Duration of Professional Basketball Games
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In the NBA, games are divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes, resulting in 48 minutes of actual playing time. However, the total duration of an NBA game is much longer due to various factors:
- Timeouts: Each team is allowed seven timeouts per game, each lasting 75 seconds (with some exceptions for shorter timeouts).
- Fouls and Free Throws: Stoppages for fouls and free throws can add significant time.
- Halftime: A 15-minute break occurs between the second and third quarters.
- Overtime: If the game is tied, 5-minute overtime periods are played until a winner is decided.
On average, an NBA game lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, though games with frequent stoppages or multiple overtimes can extend closer to 3 hours.
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Halftime and Quarter Breaks
In addition to the playing time and stoppages, there are scheduled breaks during the game:
- Quarter Breaks: After the first and third quarters, there is a brief break of about 130 seconds.
- Halftime: The break between the second and third quarters, known as halftime, lasts 15 minutes. This is when teams regroup, and fans often enjoy entertainment or refreshments.
Length of College Basketball Games
College basketball games, governed by the NCAA, have a slightly different structure. Instead of four 12-minute quarters, college games are divided into two 20-minute halves, totaling 40 minutes of playing time. Despite the shorter playing time, college games often last nearly as long as NBA games due to:
- Media Timeouts: These are mandatory stoppages for TV broadcasts, occurring at the first dead ball after the 16-, 12-, 8-, and 4-minute marks in each half.
- Halftime: A 15-minute break separates the two halves.
- Overtime: Like the NBA, college games use 5-minute overtime periods if the score is tied at the end of regulation.
On average, a college basketball game lasts about 2 hours, though this can vary depending on the pace of play and the number of stoppages.
High School Basketball Game Duration
High school basketball games are shorter than both NBA and college games. They are typically divided into four 8-minute quarters, resulting in 32 minutes of playing time. The total duration of a high school game is influenced by:
- Halftime: A 10-minute break occurs after the second quarter.
- Timeouts: Teams are usually allowed a limited number of timeouts, each lasting 60 seconds.
- Overtime: Overtime periods are typically 4 minutes long.
On average, a high school basketball game lasts about 1.5 hours, making it the shortest of the three levels.
Average Duration of an NBA Game
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Taking all these factors into account, the average NBA game lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours. However, this can vary depending on the pace of play, the number of fouls, timeouts, and whether the game goes into overtime. Some games, especially those with frequent stoppages or multiple overtimes, can stretch closer to 3 hours.
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Factors Influencing Game Length
Several factors can affect the duration of a basketball game, regardless of the level of play:
- Timeouts: Strategic timeouts, media timeouts (in college and professional games), and mandatory stoppages can extend the game.
- Fouls and Free Throws: Frequent fouls lead to more stoppages and free throws, adding to the total time.
- Instant Replay Reviews: In the NBA and college games, referees may review certain plays, which can delay the game.
- Overtime: Tied games that go into overtime can significantly extend the duration.
- Pace of Play: A fast-paced game with fewer stoppages will be shorter than a slower, more deliberate game.
- Injuries or Delays: Unforeseen events, such as player injuries or technical issues, can also add time.
Why Does This Matter?
Understanding the length of an NBA game helps fans plan their viewing experience. Whether you’re attending a game in person or watching from home, knowing the approximate duration allows you to set aside enough time to enjoy the full experience. Additionally, the strategic use of timeouts, fouls, and breaks adds layers of complexity to the game, making it as much a mental battle as a physical one.
Conclusion
While the actual playing time of an NBA game is 48 minutes, the total duration typically ranges from 2 to 2.5 hours due to stoppages, breaks, and potential overtime. This extended time frame allows for the strategic depth and entertainment that make NBA basketball so captivating. So, the next time you settle in to watch a game, you’ll know exactly what to expect in terms of time commitment—and you’ll appreciate the nuances that make every minute count.
Gaming News
Best Usenet Newsgroups for Gaming
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Usenet newsgroups may seem old-fashioned to many. In reality, they are the perfect place for players who love the classics but are always open to new games and strategies. These internet communities are also ideal for those searching for gaming material, solutions to issues, or a conversation related to their favorite video games. Whether you are an experienced player or entering this domain for the first time, Usenet holds a ton of resources that could change how you interact with the gaming world.
Understanding Usenet Newsgroups
Usenet newsgroups, which include gaming groups, are like message boards. People can post messages and articles in different categories. Each group is a special place for certain topics – this makes it simple to find the subjects you want to read about most. The unique characteristic of Usenet lies in its decentralized structure. This permits a much more open interchange of details and information than what is seen on regular social media platforms or forums.
Initially, Usenet was utilized only for academic and professional exchanges. However, it soon turned into a prevalent method for communicating among hobbyists and gaming groups. Presently, even though Usenet has been surpassed by newer platforms in terms of popularity, it continues to be an important tool for knowledgeable users who value its special mix of staying anonymous with fast communication. Knowledgeable users also love access to vast archives containing historical information and software applications that are no longer available elsewhere on the Internet.
Top Usenet Newsgroups for Mobile Games
comp.mobile.games
This is a fresh group dedicated to discussions about mobile games and related technology matters within the industry. Here, you can find conversations about the coding aspects of creating games for mobile devices, like new updates in platforms or fresh game engines being used for development purposes.
rec.games.mobile
The perfect place for people who play games on their mobile devices as a hobby. Here, users talk about strategies, tricks and discuss game evaluations. This group is also suitable for those who are not serious gamers but like to connect with others and discuss playing strategies.
alt.games.mobile
In this newsgroup, users often discuss gaming fixes and give each other suggestions. It is also the go-to place for gamers and die-hard fans that wish to find each and every detail of the game they love to play.
Best Newsgroups for Video Game Discussions
Newsgroups such as alt.games.video and rec.games.video.arcade have lively communities where gamers often engage in exchanges and conversations. These forums are not only for resolving gaming issues or writing reviews; they are centers of enthusiastic discussion regarding gaming culture, strategy, and creation process. Be it the latest RPGs, energetic shooters or old-school arcade games – there is always a thread bustling with discussion.
In these threads, not only will you encounter a variety of views from across the globe, but you may also land on gaming tricks and shortcuts that are lesser known. For those who are new, remember that every group has its own tone and rules. Lurking for a while should help you understand community norms and ensure your contributions are accepted.
Specialized Gaming Newsgroups
Specialized newsgroups are designed for particular gaming communities. They provide a discussion environment that is more centered and focused. These groups are ideal for users who really love a particular game and want to explore it in great depth.
The benefit of these specific groups is their collection of very particular details. Gamers who are part of such a group often exchange unique things like custom mods or skins, and offer advice on how to make gameplay more efficient and fun.
Tips for Using Usenet Newsgroups for Gaming
To enter Usenet, you will first need to pick a provider that is well-known for security, high retention rates and fast speed. To make the right pick, it is a good idea to get the rankings for the best Usenet providers. Next, get advanced newsreader software, as this will allow you to browse through newsgroups easily and manage your activities effectively.
Focus on newsgroups related to gaming and participate in discussions matching your interests to find gaming buddies. Also, make sure that you follow the netiquette of each group while doing so. Utilize newsreader software functions like filters and automation to keep things simple.
Conclusion
Usenet, at first sight, can appear as a choice for oldies or people that have not yet acclimated to social media platforms and forums. However, its distinct characteristics make it very useful for all kinds of gamers. If you are searching for uncommon information, looking for detailed conversations or wish to join a community that matches with your specific interests; Usenet is surely the place for you. Jump in to see how Usenet can add another element of fun to your gaming experiences!
Casual
Encouraging Growth and Motivation: Resources for Child Development
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Child development is a complex journey marked by critical milestones where each stride forward builds upon the foundation of the previous one. Acknowledging children’s individual needs, pediatric therapy services tailor strategies to foster physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. To support this transformative process, environments that prompt curiosity and engagement, coupled with advanced educational tools, play an instrumental role in shaping young minds. These resources, carefully selected and applied, can significantly amplify a child’s developmental trajectory. Keep reading to learn about the effective ways these tools and techniques can aid in advancing childhood milestones.
Pediatric Therapy Services: Enhancing Developmental Milestones
Pediatric therapy services support children as they reach and surpass developmental milestones. These services, often provided by skilled therapists, address various growth challenges, ensuring each child has the best possible start in life. From speech and occupational therapy to physical and behavioral interventions, these professionals tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of every young patient.
Therapists work relentlessly to motivate children, fostering an environment where milestones are not merely achieved but celebrated. Through personalized, one-on-one sessions, children gain the confidence and skills necessary to navigate their developmental journeys more easily. The trust between therapist and child is a solid foundation for consistent progress and paves the path for lifelong learning and adaptation.
Resource provision is a key component of pediatric therapy, equipping parents with the tools to continue therapy practices at home. Effective communication between therapists and families ensures a cohesive strategy that envelops the child’s daily routine, enhancing the therapy’s impact. It also allows parents to identify subtle progress, reinforcing their pivotal role in the child’s developmental success.
If you’re looking for pediatric therapy in your area, a simple Google search like “pediatric therapy Arizona” will help you find local providers and services tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring they receive the specialized care necessary for their development.
Optimizing Play Spaces: Creating Environments for Learning and Exploration
Optimized play spaces are vital platforms where children engage with their world, build skills, and unleash their creativity. Designers of such areas pay astute attention to elements that promote safe exploration and intellectual stimulation. A thoughtfully arranged play environment serves as a place of entertainment and a crucible for burgeoning development.
Professionals incorporate a variety of tactile and visual stimuli within play areas to cater to diverse developmental needs and interests. Stimulating sensory experiences is central to cognitive and motor skill refinement among younger populations. The intentional selection of colors, textures, and interactive features sparks curiosity and encourages physical activity, which is fundamental to healthy growth.
Accessibility remains paramount in creating play spaces, ensuring they cater to children across all abilities. Including adaptive resources within these environments demonstrates a commitment to inclusive development, allowing every child to participate and benefit from the joy and learning play offers. Such inclusiveness fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for emotional and social development.
Affording children autonomy in their play advances self-directed learning and problem-solving capabilities. When children feel empowered to make choices within their play, they better understand their preferences and abilities, setting the stage for confidence and self-awareness — qualities that are instrumental as children grow and transition through life’s stages.
Additionally, incorporating elements like fake plants or outdoor plants from retailers like Nearly Natural outdoor plants into play spaces can enhance children’s sensory and aesthetic experience.
Interactive Learning Tools: Technology and Resources for Cognitive Development
Interactive learning tools harness technology’s power to solidify children’s cognitive development. These digital resources provide an array of engaging, educational content that aligns with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Software and applications designed for children’s learning capitalize on the allure of multimedia to capture young minds. Effective education solutions provide children with stimulating challenges that are age-appropriate and aligned with developmental targets.
The discerning use of educational technology in classrooms and homes can reinforce concepts and skills taught through traditional methods. It creates a harmonious blend of instruction and interactive play, thereby cementing a child’s understanding and retention of information.
Providers of such educational platforms are ever vigilant, updating content to reflect new educational strategies and the latest academic research. Thus, children equipped with these technological tools remain at the vanguard of current learning methodologies, all while engrossed in fun and dynamic ways.
Overall, caregivers and educators can provide comprehensive support for children’s developmental journeys by integrating pediatric therapy services, optimized play spaces, and interactive learning tools. These resources nurture their physical, emotional, and cognitive growth and cultivate a lifelong love for learning and exploration.
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Anonymous Poster
November 10, 2013 at 1:42 am
Actually, there is a very high chance that Sten will return due to the events of ‘Dragon Age: Until We Sleep’. I won’t spoil anything about the comic but since the whole world is thrown into chaos in Dragon Age Inquisition but I strongly believe that the Inquisitor will meet a certain Qunari.
‘It’s just my opinion, no need to go spreading it around’
Marta Branco
November 10, 2013 at 7:18 am
Thanks a lot for your constructive comment. I checked out and there’s a comic featuring Sten as an Arishok, which means he may return after all.
Mouse
November 10, 2013 at 10:12 pm
Wynne died in the Dragon Age novel called Asunder, written by David Gaider, the lead writer of the franchise. She wont come back :(
Marta Branco
November 10, 2013 at 10:32 pm
Then my suspicious are correct, thanks for the info, I’ve updated it.
DJM
November 10, 2013 at 10:59 pm
Not that it affects the default storyline, but Alistair actually can die in the first Dragon Age — if Anora becomes Queen and the Warden spares Loghain, when Alistair ragequits the party Anora demands his execution. It’s easy to prevent this, but it can happen.
Also, really minor point, but Merrill appears in both games, potentially — she’s a member of the Dalish Warden’s tribe and even shows up at the celebration at the end of the game. I don’t really think that affects your analysis, but there it is.
DJM
November 10, 2013 at 11:01 pm
Oh. And Alistair can die to kill the Archdemon! Can’t believe I forgot that; it’s even an achievement.
Marta Branco
November 10, 2013 at 11:21 pm
Yes, that’s true. But as I said he was put as the Ferelden king on the standard DA 2 story.
boondagr
November 11, 2013 at 5:12 pm
Shouldn’t Leliana and Merrill both have (2/2) APGs? Leliana made up to three cameos in Dragon Age 2 (DA II’s Ending, Exiled Prince DLC, and Mark of the Assassin DLC), and Merrill first appeared in the Dalish Origin story of DA:O.
Michajlowycz
November 26, 2013 at 7:05 pm
I think Merrill is very likely to appear in the DA:I, because:
1)She appeared in both DA:O and DA2.
2)She is a powerful mage, that, I’m sure, could make an impact on the Templar-Mages war.
3)When playing DA2 I got really intrested in her mysterious mirror. I hope that she will be able to use it to, for example, aquire the Elves’ Immortality and become even more powerful mage.
4)She seems to know a bit about Asha’Belanaar – Flemeth. Her knowledge may be of use in finding out why the portal from the Fade opened. Flemeth has to be involved in this, I’m 100% sure.
Kungstnos
May 16, 2014 at 11:56 am
I would like to see Tallis again…
Evelynn
October 18, 2014 at 2:07 am
I want Fenriiiiiiiis *-*
Riviera
January 2, 2015 at 11:54 pm
Its funny to read this while knowing that most of the characters you tought might come back didn’t came back at all. Mostly minor characters from previous games returned like connor or dagna.Like i don’t see why you thought isabella and like merril would return.The qunari weren’t the real treath in DA2 so isabella stealing their book would be a minor thing in a world in which the veil has breached.Also even tho merril has had a thing with demons, to much characters coming back from DA2 would let the game look and feel to much like DA2. For me I’d really hoped that Oghren would return and let him interact with varric but i knew this was very unlikely.Also the fact that they returned hawke in the flesh and not the warden kinda bums me i think the developers should have gave the warden alot more input in this game except a silly letter.