For all its bluster, Dragon Age: Origins comes off as a game that's afraid to take risks. Everything about it, from the combat to the story line, stays very safely within established bounds. In some ways, this is a good thing because it assures Bioware faithful that they'll probably find something to enjoy here. After Mass Effect, though, Origins feels like a bit of a step backward. Bioware previously took sci-fi conventions and made them their own, but here, they cling so closely to archetypes that you'll wonder when Gandalf will show up. Fortunately, the plot is bolstered by some very strong character writing and a very well-structured ending. The combat mechanics are solid and overall well-designed, and you never feel like enemies have become a joke. However, it really does feel like a game made for the PC, and getting things done can be awkward. Dragon Age's biggest problem is that it doesn't do anything to stand out. It's a very conservative and cautious game, which is something odd to say about a title that mentions "rape" at every possible opportunity. For those expecting something at the same as Bioware's previous titles, this game may be a bit of a disappointment. However, those who are simply looking for a solid, if unexceptional, fantasy-RPG will find a lot to like in Dragon Age: Origins.