Griffons are powerful creatures mentioned in that appear in . They are large, eagle-like beings with the bodies of lions, possessing sharp talons, powerful wings, and keen eagle-like eyesight.
The griffons were what Grey Wardens rode into battle during the First Blight, and due to the horrific nature of the war, all griffons supposedly died out and went extinct.
The books for the series touch on griffons a bit more and allude to them still being alive, but seeing them is a fun thing for players.
While players go through, they'll eventually have to choose whether griffons return as the noble steed for Grey Wardens, or if they remain in their new environment of the Arlathan Forest.
There is a sentimental value, as the player gets attached to one of the griffons, and it's an important part of bonding with one of the best romanceable companions, Davrin.