Bioware has given us a look at The Fade, as it will appear in Dragon Age 3: Inquisition.
The Fade is that part of Thedas that is separated from the rest of it by the Veil. While this area is usually inaccessible, most people usually do when they dream. The Fade has appeared in multiple Dragon Age games, including Dragon Age 2 and Dragon Age: Origins.
The Fade is particularly significant for mages. It is the part of Thedas they tap into to cast magic spell. The Mages of the Circle often enter the fade, with the help of lyrium. They also conduct the rite of Harrowing in here, an initiation rite for apprentices where they either become full mages or are disposed of after combat against a demon. Of course, this means you can yourself cast magic in the Fade, although spells are unpredictable.
Different rules also operate within the Fade. For example, in most cases being killed in the Fade does not lead to actual death. Consequently, you usually do not get any loot for killing enemies while in the Fade. These rules are not set in stone nor are they consistent. For example, you can use your actual inventory while in the Fade, so if you throw an item away you won’t get it back.
The Fade looks amazing in Dragon Age 3: Inquisition, and we look forward to seeing how it will be used in the game. Dragon Age 3: Inquisition is coming October 7 to Windows, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.