Iron Bull

Lore & Background

The Iron Bull serves as the Ben'Hassrath's representative within the Inquisition after gaining renown as the Herald of Andraste. Originally a hunter of spies, rebels, and deserters, he was transferred to Orlais to gather intelligence on southern Thedas. While maintaining his duties to the Qunari government, he has grown accustomed to life outside strict Qun teachings, indulging in hedonistic pursuits and interpersonal relationships. If the protagonist is Qunari, Bull laughs upon hearing rumors of a Qunari Herald, initially dismissing them as fanciful. He openly admits his role as a double agent, explaining that he will relay information about the Breach to both the Ben'Hassrath and the Inquisition. His true name, Hissrad ('one who creates illusion' or 'liar'), is revealed only if the player meets Gatt, a former elven slave and Qun convert whom Bull recruited in the past.

In Their Own Story

The narrative centers on the Storm Coast mission where the Ben'Hassrath and Inquisition unite to attack a Venatori smuggling operation. Bull's contact, Gatt, joins the party alongside the Chargers for an ambush plan involving a Qunari dreadnought. Bull assigns his crew what he believes is 'the easy job,' but a large Venatori force advances on their position. Gatt insists the Chargers hold the hill to protect the dreadnought. At this critical turning point, the Inquisitor must decide whether to sacrifice the Chargers or signal a retreat. If they retreat, the dreadnought is destroyed, the alliance ends, and Bull becomes Tal-Vashoth ('True Grey One'). If ordered to sacrifice them, the mission succeeds, Bull affirms his faith in the Qun, but he is deeply affected by their deaths, later collecting their remains for funeral rites. In the Trespasser DLC, set two years after Corypheus is defeated, Bull's allegiance depends on whether the Chargers were saved or sacrificed.

Reader's Guide

Iron Bull joins the party if the player initiates a conversation with Krem at the Haven stables, who conveys interest in retaining the Chargers as agents. The Inquisition must then travel to the Storm Coast region in Ferelden to meet them. He is designed as a pansexual character; pursuing him reveals an interest in consensual adult sadomasochistic activity. If the player does not pursue romance with him or Dorian, Bull may end up dating Dorian if both are in the party long enough. He corrects players who misgender Krem, demonstrating progressive views on human nature. As a companion, he offers insight into Qunari culture, physiology, and politics without revealing much about himself personally. His recruitment is optional, and his role shifts based on player choices regarding his loyalty to the Qun versus his crew.

Did You Know?

• Iron Bull is voiced by Freddie Prinze Jr., who received praise for his performance.
• His nickname 'Hissrad' means 'one who creates illusion' or 'liar' in the Qunari language.
• The character was designed to overcome a career-ending disability, featuring an eye patch and one-eyed vision.
• Writer Patrick Weekes used soundtracks from movies like The Avengers and Iron Man 3 while writing for Bull.
• He was named Best New Character of the Year by Giant Bomb's 2014 Game of the Year Awards.