Dragon Age 2 - Previews @ NowGamer and Cheat Code Central

Two new previews for this game can be found on the net; the first is from NowGamer, and the second is from Cheat Code Central. Now Gamer has this to say - at least this information seems to news we haven't heard before:

Squads can still be given a series of predetermined spells and attacks to use, they can be given orders and they can even be sent to deal with things on their own. Sending party members off to fight solo battles has its risks and rewards and should they die then you’ve lost them for good. That could be a problem if they are a class that you desperately need.

And now Cheat Code Central - here's something about how you can shape Hawke,
the Champion of Kirkwall:

The true nature of the Champion of Kirkwall remains a mystery. All that is known is that he is one who holds a lot of sway in Kirkwall and will soon become one of the most important people in history. It will be up to players to fill in the blanks.

Note that you can play as a female Hawke as well...