Review: Baldur’s Gate 3

Before Baldur’s Gate 3, what game has represented the pinnacle of CRPGs to you?

Before diving into the world of Baldur’s Gate 3, it’s worth contemplating which game holds the title of the ultimate CRPG for you. Is it the epic storytelling and vast open world of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt? Perhaps the iconic characters and immersive world of Baldur’s Gate 2? Or maybe you’re drawn to the philosophical depths and compelling narrative of Planescape: Torment. There’s also the post-apocalyptic charm of Fallout 1/2, the impactful choices of Dragon Age: Origins, or the unique blend of roleplaying and detective work in Disco Elysium. And let’s not forget the immersive sandbox of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, the cult classic Vampire: The Masquerade: Bloodlines, or any other CRPG that has captivated you. Share your favorite CRPG in the comments below!

Let’s Party

One of the most endearing aspects of Baldur’s Gate 3 is its wonderful cast of companions. This diverse group of characters adds depth and richness to the journey.

• Karlach, the cheerful and eager tiefling, whose heart has been replaced by a demonic bomb, quickly becomes a favorite companion.
• Shadowheart, the dour cleric, offers a chance for romance and intriguing exploration of her mysterious past.
• Gale, the arrogant wizard, provides a clash of personalities and a compelling story of magic and ambition.
• Halsin, the stoic and capable druid, who can transform into a fearsome grizzly bear, adds a layer of wildness to the party.

Each companion boasts elaborate backstories, the potential for significant character development, and the ability to forge strong bonds with the player. And beyond the main companions, the game is teeming with richly written villains, each with their own complex motives and unique brand of malice.

Tools of the Trade

Baldur’s Gate 3 offers a comprehensive character creation system, allowing players to tailor their heroes with remarkable detail.

• A wide range of 29 different subraces are available, each with unique abilities and models.
• 12 classes are represented, with at least three specializations per class, offering a diverse array of playstyles.
• The game’s art direction is exceptional, showcasing stunningly detailed humanoid and creature models.
• The performance captured faces of every character are remarkably expressive and high-fidelity, adding a level of immersion rarely seen in CRPGs.

This dedication to detail extends beyond the character creation to the game’s world design and writing. The titular city of Baldur’s Gate is a vibrant hub of life and adventure, brimming with engaging characters and secrets to uncover. Every citizen has a tale to tell, and exploration consistently rewards players with new lore, loot, and quests.

So… who are you romancing?

In Baldur’s Gate 3, romance takes a unique approach, focusing on nuanced interactions and character development rather than explicit scenes. The game cleverly utilizes sensual wordplay and meaningful encounters to deepen the relationships between the player and their chosen companion.

• Will you be wooing the charming Gale?
• Or perhaps you’ll find yourself drawn to the intriguing Wyll?
• The mysterious Shadowheart might capture your heart with her enigmatic charm.
• Lae’zel, the fierce warrior, offers a unique and powerful romantic path.
• The fiery Karlach is a captivating companion with a heart of fire.
• The enigmatic Asterion offers a unique and compelling romantic journey.
• The stoic Halsin, capable of transforming into a grizzly bear, adds a touch of wildness to romance.

With so many captivating characters, you might even find yourself tempted to explore multiple romantic possibilities. Who will you choose? Vote for your favorite romance in the poll above.

World of Wonders

The story of Baldur’s Gate 3 unfolds across three distinct acts, each with its own unique atmosphere and captivating locales.

• Act 1 immerses players in the idyllic beauty of wilderness environments.
• Act 2 plunges players into a chilling and spooky realm of darkness and secrets.
• Act 3 takes the journey to the bustling city of Baldur’s Gate, where intrigue and adventure abound.

While the pacing can feel a bit slow at times, the immersive world, compelling side quests, and exhilarating combat encounters keep the player engaged.

Len’s List of RPGs With the Best Stories

Baldur’s Gate 3 is a testament to the power of compelling storytelling in RPGs. Here’s a curated list of RPGs that are renowned for their engaging narratives:

• Baldur’s Gate III – Larian Studios
• Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn – BioWare
• Planescape: Torment – Black Isle Studios
• Fallout: New Vegas – Obsidian Entertainment
• Disco Elysium – ZA/UM
• Vampire: The Masquerade — Bloodlines – Troika
• Dragon Age: Origins – BioWare
• Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 5 – Atlus
• Hades – Supergiant Games
• Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales – CD Projekt Red

This list is just a starting point for exploring the rich world of RPGs. Do you have any other recommendations for great storytelling in RPGs? Share them in the comments below.