DragonSword : Awakening is an anime-style open-world action RPG developed for PC. Players explore the Continent of Orbis, recruit companions, and engage in tag-team combat that incorporates status ailments while pursuing a story centered on a reawakened dragon threat.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around open-world traversal on the Continent of Orbis, rendered in Unreal Engine 5 with cel-shaded anime visuals. Exploration involves mapping areas, completing logs, and using familiars as mounts to reach new locations and objectives. Combat features a roster of 19 heroes that players combine freely in tag-team setups, chaining abilities and applying status effects to handle groups of enemies. Progression includes unlocking character-specific skills, refining gear through crafting and reforging, and managing team compositions for different challenges. Familiars add utility during travel, with the Exploration Squad Griffon serving as a durable purple gryphon option suited for adventurers tackling varied terrain.
Game Modes
The experience centers on a single-player campaign that blends narrative progression with free-roaming exploration and combat encounters. World bosses appear as repeatable high-difficulty targets, while daily activities and raid-style content provide ongoing structure after the main story. Co-op elements allow shared sessions in certain open-world activities. The system emphasizes build experimentation and efficient farming loops for materials and gold rather than competitive matchmaking.
Familiars and Exploration
Familiars function as mounts that enhance mobility and tie into exploration goals. The Exploration Squad Griffon stands out for its strong build and resilient nature, making it a practical choice for long treks across continents. Players obtain it through the Familiar Codex after purchase, following a straightforward menu sequence that equips the companion to any chosen hero. This DLC familiar complements other gryphon variants unlocked via in-game milestones such as elite promotions or boss defeats.
Is It Worth Playing?
Steam user reviews rate the base game Very Positive at 92 percent from over 1,600 submissions shortly after its July 2026 launch. Players highlight smooth performance, engaging combat, and the absence of gacha mechanics in favor of a complete buy-to-play package. Regular updates address localization and balance, supporting continued play. The title suits those who enjoy anime aesthetics paired with open-world action RPG systems, party management, and mount-assisted exploration. Those seeking pure story focus or competitive multiplayer may find the emphasis on solo progression and farming less aligned with their preferences.
