Alistair is a central figure and one of the player character’s earliest companions in Dragon Age: Origins. His journey is deeply intertwined with the Fifth Blight, establishing his importance from the outset. He quickly becomes a key ally, supporting the Warden as they navigate Ferelden.
Alistair’s Origins and Role
Alistair’s history is rooted in a surprising lineage; he is the illegitimate son of King Maric, making him a potential heir to the throne of Ferelden. Before his royal heritage was fully known, he was raised under the care of Arl Eamon in Redcliffe Castle following his mother’s death. He was later sent to the Chantry for religious instruction, where he began training as a Templar, a martial order dedicated to monitoring mages. However, Alistair found this life ill-suited to his personality and was recruited into the Grey Wardens by Duncan, the order’s commander, approximately six months before the Blight began.
Recruited by Duncan into the Grey Wardens, an ancient order fighting the Darkspawn, Alistair is introduced as a junior Grey Warden at Ostagar. He helps the player character prepare for their induction. After the catastrophic battle at Ostagar, he becomes the player’s first permanent companion, serving as a warrior. He can specialize in two-handed combat or sword and shield, providing a reliable frontline presence.
Character Development and Relationships
Alistair often uses humor as a coping mechanism, but beneath his witty remarks lie significant insecurities. He possesses a strong moral compass, consistently leaning towards actions he perceives as just, which can sometimes lead to rigid views. His personal quest involves seeking out Goldanna, whom he believes to be his half-sister, revealing a deep desire for familial connection. The outcome of this quest can influence his “hardening,” impacting his future decisions and overall outlook.
His relationship with the player character, the Warden, can evolve from friendship to romance for female Wardens. Alistair views Duncan as a revered mentor, and Duncan’s death profoundly affects him. His positive interactions with King Cailan intensify his animosity towards Loghain, whom he blames for Cailan’s demise and the betrayal at Ostagar.
Pivotal Choices and Outcomes
Alistair’s fate is significantly influenced by key decisions made throughout the game, particularly during the Landsmeet and the final confrontation with the Archdemon. At the Landsmeet, the player must decide the fate of Loghain and the future of Ferelden’s monarchy. Alistair can be installed as king, either ruling alone or alongside Anora, provided Loghain is executed. If Loghain is spared and recruited into the Grey Wardens, Alistair will leave the party, sometimes becoming a wandering drunk or being executed by Anora.
The final battle against the Archdemon presents another profound choice regarding Alistair’s destiny. A Grey Warden must deliver the killing blow to the Archdemon, a sacrifice that results in their death. Alistair can make this sacrifice, or the player character can. Alternatively, Morrigan offers a “Dark Ritual” to prevent the sacrifice, which involves a Grey Warden conceiving a child with her. If this ritual is performed, both Alistair and the player character can survive the final battle, allowing for various post-game scenarios for him, including remaining a Grey Warden.