Dragon Age: Origins - Griffon Essential Mods is a guide built from my mod list which I've personally selected and used for several playthroughs.

The goal of this guide:
- Lite and easy to install: Stable and quick to install mods with easy to follow install steps that shouldn't make you spend more time on modding the game than playing it.
- Pure essential and lore-friendly: The mods I picked were carefully selected, I make sure the following standards must be met: it must be consistent with the original gameplay design and visual art of DAO; it doesn't drastically change the game; nothing should feel out of place.

In short, this guide will provide you an improved vanilla experience. It should be the same amazing game but with changes and updates that feel like it is how it was intended. I will also provide information on why I consider the mods essential, of course you don't have to read all of my rambling and can skip straight to the download steps!

I have never used mod manager for DAO since it is very easy to manual install mods (simply drag and drop). This guide is made with the manual installing method in mind, and I encourage users to use this method as I've found it to be ideal for a stable mod setup.

Manual Installation Method:
1. Drag and Drop:
Most mods are installed by dragging their files to the following path:
Document\Bioware\Dragon Age\Package\Core\Override
Note: Do not use the same method for mods that contain files end with .dazip!

2. DAZIP Files:
For mods that contain the dazip files, these mods are not meant to be installed by Drag and Drop, but by using the DAUpdater.exe that can be found in bin_ship folder of your DAO folder. Simply select the dazip you downloaded and press install.

On using mod manager:
You can of course install these mods with a mod manager, but I won't guarantee they will work as intended and I won't be able to troubleshoot your problems (should you have it) if you use this method.

If you have modern PC and have trouble with constant crashing, you should install the 4GB patch. For this process, I recommend this guide:
https://steamhost.cn/steamcommunity_com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=233222451

The most essential of them all, this is the unofficial patch of DAO. Even if you want a pure vanilla experience without mods, this mod is still a must have.
Why it is essential:
- This mod fixed many minor bugs and various oversights left by Bioware. It also restored cut contents that can be considered as important to the narrative.
- You might happen to find various bug fixes mods on DAO Nexus, chance is that they are already included in this one.
- The author made sure there are no changes that can be consider as tweak rather than fix (there is a difference).

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
1. Use DAUpdater.exe (can be found in bin_ship folder of DAO's folder), select the dazip file then install.
2. Download Hotfix V3_52 in Update Files, drag the folder to Override folder.


This is a fix for a seriously bugged quest in Awakening expansion, it is not yet fixed by QUDAO Fixpack.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Drag the erf file to Document\Bioware\Dragon Age\Package\Core\Override (This location is where you drag most mods into)

Another fix for a severe bug in Awakening which could cause players to permanently lose items and equipment in a certain quest.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Drag the folder to Override folder.

While I normally wouldn't consider cosmetic mod as bug fix, the vanilla female dwarf body has very odd arms proportions which looks extremely scrawny and uneven, it can't seriously be considered as intentional. This mod will fix their arms to look more evenly like how it's truly supposed to be.

DOWNLOAD

How to install:
Extract proportions_dwarf.zip and drag its folder to Override folder.

Why it is essential:
While the official version of Grey Warden armor didn't appear until DA2, you can actually see its first appearance in the CGI promotion for DAO and everyone would agree it should have been included in the game. It is ironic and unjust that you don't get to wear the actual Grey Warden armor in a Dragon Age game where you are one of the last Grey Wardens. These mod brought the unique Grey Warden sets to DAO which looks, works and fits greatly in DAO.


This is a port and integration of DA2's Grey Warden armors to DAO. Grey Warden equipment and its higher tiers from this mod can be bought at Vigil Keep (DLC) and Herren from Awakening.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
1. Download the REQUIRED file, install using DAUpdater.exe.
2. Download the Main File, drag the Grey Wardens of Ferelden folder into Override folder.


It is no secret that the armors in Grey Wardens of Ferelden has crazy overpowered stats and using it can upset the vanilla progression quite a bit. This mod will rebalance these items to be more akin to vanilla.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
1. Drag the folder zz_tsm_GWoF_rebalanced to Override folder.
2. Download "medium_helmet_conflict_fix" in Optional Files and drag the file within to overwrite the same files in "zz_tsm_GWoF_rebalanced" folder. This is necessary for another mod we will install later.


This is for people who prefer Duncan's unique armor design in DAO, which I'm very much prefer over the change made by Grey Wardens of Ferelden. This retexture will make Duncan's unique armor having similar characteristic to DA2 Grey Warden design. In order to use this mod along with Grey Wardens of Ferelden, you just need to follow the instruction below.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
1. Go to Grey Wardens of Ferelden folder in Override folder, delete the following .utc files:
bdc140cr_duncan.utc
bdn120cr_duncan.utc
bec100cr_duncan.utc
bed100cr_duncan.utc
bhm300cr_duncan.utc
bhn100cr_duncan.utc
cir350cr_duncan.utc
pre100cr_duncan.utc
2. Drag the files from this mod to Override folder.

From DA2 onward, Tranquils have a tattoo branded on their forehead which you can recognize they are Tranquil. This mod will add the tattoo to Tranquil NPCs in DAO, keeping their appearance consistent throughout the series.
Why it is essential:
This is definitely how it was supposed to be in DAO too since you can hear this being mentioned in the dialogue of a Tranquil NPC, but in DAO none of the Tranquil have this tattoo.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
1. Download "Tranquil Tattoos and Head Morphs - Shaved - DAO-Style Elves" file because this version doesn't make unnecessary changes to NPCs.
2. Drag the files to Override folder.


DA2 introduced a new design for Chantry robe but it is more of a Kirkwall thing than new design, in DAI we see the return of a more humble Chantry robe which resembles DAO design but in different color scheme. This mod is a simple retexture which will recolor DAO Chantry robe to be more similar to DAI color scheme.
Why it is essential:
I think it is inconsistent that the Chantry robe you see in DAO doesn't match the color scheme of Chantry robe color you can see Ferelden NPCs wear in DAI. It also makes sense that the Chantry doesn't change its uniform within such a short time span between each games like a fashion show.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Drag the folder to Override folder

The following mods will bring the elf design in DAO to be consistent with their design in later games. The installation will be a bit more complex here so I recommend to carefully follow the instruction to ensure these mods work nicely together.
Why it is essential:
With DA2 onward, the elves have updated design which makes them way more unique. At first, I didn't like their new design as I thought they looked fine enough in DAO, but once an internet stranger said to me "elves in DAO are just beautiful humans with pointy ears", I can't help but root for unique elfy design.

This mod is a port of elf assets from DA2 to DAO. There are morphs change (NPCs face) here but they are not ideal so we only use this mod as a core.

DOWNLOAD

How to install:
There are several zip files in this folder, but the only files we need are elf_update.zip and proportions-elf_da2.zip.
1. Extract elf_update.zip, ONLY drag "da2_elf-eye" and "da2_elf-head" folder into Override folder.
2. Extract proportions-elf_da2.zip and drag everything to Override folder.


Triple Mix is the culmination of latest fixes and improvements for Elf Update's morphs from the community. NPCs now look "updated" while also retaining their vanilla complexions. The biggest plus is you don't need to install a dozen mods along with a dozen compatibility patches to make it work.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
1. Download the main file. Drag "DA2 Elves Triple Mix" folder into Override. Remove these redundant folders: "Elves of Ferelden UTC", "MRH files - presets."
2. Download all 3 files in Update Files section.
3. To install Fixed DLC Morphs, drag the 5 folders inside "Fixed DLC Morphs" into "Morph files" folder of "DA2 Elves Triple Mix" in Override folder. Overwrite.
4. To install Fixed UTC Files, drag these 2 files "coa100cr_apostate_3.utc" and "ran290cr_melora.utc" to "Required UTC" folder inside "DA2 Elves Triple Mix" in Override folder.
5. To install Merrill - Vallaslin fix, drag "uh_tat_pmta_0t.dds" to "For Merrill - REQUIRED" folder inside "Tattoo textures" which belongs to "DA2 Elves Triple Mix" in Override folder.

Why it is essential:
Similar to the elf, Qunari also has unique design in DA2 onward and the following mods will bring this design to DAO. The reason why DAO Qunari didn't look like DA2 Qunari because their race was supposed to be black Conan the Barbarian with white hair instead of horned people (and don't let Bioware tell you otherwise!). Bioware retconned this by saying Sten unlike other Qunari doesn't have horns which is cute, however it still doesn't change the fact that other Qunari you see in DAO don't have horns and horns weren't even mentioned once in the codex.


The ported assets of Qunari race to DAO so they are no longer just muscular human.

DOWNLOAD

How to install:
Install using DAUpdater.exe


While Qunari Update does update Sten face, it looks pretty bad since Bioware didn't make a proper hornless Qunari asset. This author made a better hornless version and thus Sten looks more similar to the way he was depicted in Those Who Speak comic, and also fixed a few issues with the original Qunari Update.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Drag the folder to Override folder.

Replaces Darkspawn Emissaries with retcon design and moveset.
Why it is essential:
Darkspawn received the most drastic design change with DA2, most notably are the Emissaries who are now a certain creepy levitating tainted elfy creature. This mod filled the biggest gap of both visual and lore disparity about the Emissary and that alone makes this mod very essential to me.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Install using DAUpdater.exe


Why it is essential:
Flemeth now uses her own unique dragon model from DA2 instead of the generic one. And I think for that reason alone one can sum up why this mod is very essential to her appearance in DAO.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Drag the folder to Override folder


While the Mabari look more or less the same between each games, they do have a few minor changes like longer snout and somewhat different head shape, different placement and slant of the eyes as described by the author. This mod replace the Mabari model with the new one from DA2 and even though it is no game-changing, anything to fill the gap of visual disparity between each games is always welcome.

DOWNLOAD

How to install:
Drag the folder to Override folder

If you've followed and installed the above mods, you are basically good to go with the essential mods setup. You won't be missing much without the following mods, but I've found them to fit nicely enough with the game.

This is actually a cut feature by Bioware, most people considered this mod as essential. I don't really consider it so since it kinda null the point of lockpicking and having a rogue in your party. However, playing as a non-rogue Warden in DAO is a misery when it comes to locked chests so this mod is a life saver for all the master of unlocking out there.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Install using DAUpdater.exe


With this mod, you can bring the mabari doggo along the whole adventure while still being able to have a full party. But this mod can tip the game balance a bit which is why I don't consider it as a pure essential.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Install using DAUpdater.exe


A very nice looking armor based on Leliana design in concept art and CGI trailers. I prefer this version over other Sacred Ashes Leliana armor mod because this one is well balanced and the armor looks great with vanilla visual. If you want Leliana to have her own unique looking armor then this mod is definitely it.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Install using DAUpdater.exe


This mod will give Isabela (an important character throughout the series) updated face and clothes that are more similar to her DA2 counterpart. I prefer this mod over other straightforward DA2 Isabela ports because the author has the right idea of how Isabela should look "years earlier" in DAO.

DOWNLOAD

How to install:
1. Install using DAUpdater.exe
2. Download tmp7704 Isabela variation fixpack[www.nexusmods.com] and drag its folders to Override folder as this mod will fix several issues from the original mod.


This mod will make Cullen (also an important character throughout the series) younger by getting rid of his wrinkles while retaining his vanilla look. The reason for this is because Cullen looks youthful in later game so it doesn't make sense that he looks oldest in DAO.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
Download version B (or A if you prefer him to look even younger, but only download one) then drop the file to Override folder.


This is a retexture for all the light armors in this game so their appearance is more akin to the armor design in later games. The main reason I included this one because it has an excellent retexture for the Dalish armor which is a very lore friendly improvement over the weird vanilla bikini Dalish armor. I recommend to download the Dalish armor retexture only since the rest are just mix and match design which aren't necessary an improvement over the original. However, if you prefer all these design over vanilla, you can go for all in one version.

DOWNLOAD[www.nexusmods.com]

How to install:
If you just want the dalish armor only, you just need to grab the "Dalish a la carte" file in Optional Files.
Drag the folder to Override folder to install.

With those mods installed, I can guarantee that you will have an enhanced and amazing experience with Dragon Age: Origins and its beautiful world. This guide would be updated if there are oversights on my part or there are things to add or take out in this guide, I will let you know the changes I make for each update.

If you have troubles using this guide or want to provide me feedback, leave me a comment!

Thank you for using the guide and I wish you an amazing experience with Dragon Age: Origins

Thanks Bioware for creating one of the most amazing and unforgettable RPG of all time

Also, a special thanks to all the fine modders of DAO scene who have maintained the game with love and passion



Also, check out my similar guide for KotOR II - The Sith Lords:
https://steamhost.cn/steamcommunity_com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2606429096

1. There are so many essential mods out there like Improved Atmosphere, Dragon Age Redesigned, etc. Why they are not included?
- The line between "improvement" and "different" in modding is very thin, the mods I picked are the one I considered as definitive improvement rather than making something different. DAO vanilla on its own is already a robust experience, I don't see the need to change things if things are already fine as it is, thus sticking to the "essential" spirit of this guide. Some improvement mods are sadly not included due to being complex to install and maintain compatibility.

2. Can I use other mods also?
Yes, of course. This guide can be serve as a base build then you can try out other mods without glaring issues. However I won't be able to troubleshooting if you have trouble running other mods with this guide.

3. I think you should/shouldn't add this mod
I'm open to suggestion on improving this guide, leave me your feedback in comment and I will consider it! I will also answer your questions on why something should/shouldn't be included.

First update: Added 4GB patch and Younger Cullen mod.
3/9/2021: I've removed Ferelden Elves from the list as I've found it to be redundant. If you have already installed Ferelden Elves, delete the "Ferelden Elves" folder in your Override folder.
3/11/2021: Added Law and Order Fixes to Bug Fixes.
3/12/2021: Replaced Tranquil Tattoo - Origins with Tranquil Brand 2.0 since it has better texture.
3/16/2021: Added hotfix instruction for QUDAO Fixpack; Also improved guide overall structure.
3/17/2021: I've swapped back Tranquil Tattoo - Origins, even though Tranquil Brand 2.0 has better texture it doesn't cover all NPCs and I've found it doesn't retain face complexity on original Tranquil NPCs.
3/18/2021: Added Retcon Light Armor Texture Rehaul to Less Essential.
3/19/2021: Added Qunari Update - Grey Warden of Ferelden Compatibility Patch to Qunari Design Update.
3/22/2021: Tranquil Tattoo - Origins section renamed to Chantry & Tranquil Design Update as I've added Chantry Robes - Inquisition Colors along with fixed texture to this section.
3/23/2021: Added TSM Grey Wardens of Ferelden Rebalanced and revised Grey Wardens of Ferelden section.
11/14/2024: Replaced the original Chantry Robes - Inquisition Colors mod with the fixed version by gioveb. Replaced DA2 Elves for DAO - Retain Variety with the more completed DA2 Elves Triple Mix along with new installation instruction. Replaced Qunari Update file with working dazip version.
12/04/2024: Changed Elf update instruction to include elf proportions file. Added Less Gaudy Tints.
12/11/2024: Added new Creatures Design section with mods that update some creatures design. Added Warden Armors Texture Tweaks. Replaced Sten of the Beresaad with Cookies for Sten.
12/26/2024: Removed Warden Armors Texture Tweaks and Less Gaudy Tints after further testing.
01/14/2025: Replaced my own Qunari Update - Grey Warden of Ferelden Compatibility Patch with the fix from TSM Grey Wardens of Ferelden Rebalanced.
01/20/2025: Added Awakening Silverite Mines Bugfix, Dwarf Proportions fix and tmp7704 Isabela variation fixpack.