From IDW and EA Comics we get a comic book based on the hit fantasy epic Dragon Age: Origins. Now I’m usually one to pass on any video game tie-in comic because they usually aren’t any good. However one thing stuck out at me when I saw this book on the shelves. It was co-written by… Orson Scott Card? That factoid in congress with the fun art and vibrant coloring made me pick this book off the shelf.

The book, written at least in part, by sci-fi legend Orson Scott Card and Aaron Johnston the story takes place in the “Circle Tower” a place where people with magical aptitude are taken to learn under the careful supervision of warriors called the Templars. Without going too deeply into the politics of the world mages aren’t well trusted because once upon a time they almost brought about the end of the world. The characters are fun and well-rounded and the story makes a good show of elevating itself above the run of the mill sword and sorcery fare. In short it’s a strong start and it makes me want to read more.

The art, by Mark Robinson and Jason P. Martin, is colorful and kinetic. The characters are well designed and very expressive. There is a slight manga influence on the art-style, but it is by no mean Amerimanga. It reminds me a bit of Joe Madureira’s Battle Chasers, only more subdued on the boob and gauntlet front.

In short this is a great little fantasy comic and probably one of the best in the genre. Fans of the game will love this book and those who have never played the game shouldn’t shy away. This book is very newcomer friendly and will offer something to like for any fantasy fan.