Like many of you, after seeing the Mind Flayer cut scene for Baldur’s Gate 3, I was hooked and so excited for this game to come out. It’s out now for PC and we are all are just scratching the surface of this massive game. Baldur’s Gate 3 is a much-anticipated successor to the classic RPG franchise and leading up to its release has often shocked and amazed the internet with talk of bear sex scenes and nudity in the detailed character creator. Developed by Larian Studios, this game is so far a masterpiece that seamlessly combines engaging storytelling, deep character development, and tactical combat mechanics. With its stunning visuals especially in the cut scenes and there are so many of them. Larian Studios has said there are over 100 hours of cut scenes to be seen. Beyond all that you can explore an immersive world with its robust gameplay, so spoiler alert: Baldur’s Gate 3 redefines the modern RPG experience and leaves players begging for more. Especially if like me you are a regular user of D&D 5e because this is such a deep dive into the game mechanics of a 5e-like system.
From the moment you start your journey, you are immersed in the rich and diverse world full of sphincter doors and mind flayers. In a ship shot down by dragons and this is really just the opening of the game. The attention to detail in the the game’s design is very impressive. Every landscape, character, and creature feels lifelike, and it’s all so diverse it seems like a world full of so many possibilities. Whether you venture into the depths of ancient dungeons or traverse through sprawling forests, the world feels alive and brimming with opportunities for misadventure. Though movement through the level design can be a bit challenging without rotating the camera it is still rich and feels like a video game D&D Campaign especially if like me during covid you played remotely with something like Roll20. The animated D20 really takes me back to great video sessions and 3D dice rolls.
One of the game’s greatest strengths lies in its captivating narrative that will likely be different for every player. Baldur’s Gate 3 boasts an engaging and compelling story that draws players in from the very beginning performed beautifully by voice over talent. Players can create their custom characters, each with their unique backstories, which are woven into the game’s overarching plot. The choices you make have significant consequences, impacting the world around you and the relationships you form with the diverse cast of characters. Be it random NPSs who have memorable comments and quests or the inter dynamics your group, one interaction can go so many different ways it just branches the story so completely. An early dilemma for example involves how deal with a swollen brain. Do you want to remove the brain? Gently, forcefully, or even just destroy it. These are all options you have in the first few minutes of gameplay. If you choose right you could have a cute companion. You find two NPCs in the throws of passion this can turn into a fight or talk your way out of it. There are so many options and many of the depend on a roll. This leaves players tempted to restart at a recent save file just to get a desired result.
But before I get too distracted I have to come back to the dialogue system that is brilliantly executed. Its got well-written conversations that make you feel connection to your companions and the world around you. Each character has depth and personality, making them feel like genuine. These companions are not mere bystanders or NPCs; they play vital roles in both combat and the unfolding story, adding depth and emotional investment to the overall experience. It’s always a great treat to have so much of the dialog performed it really makes it feel like a high-quality game and keeps me engaged in the communication.
Combat in Baldur’s Gate 3 is a good stride toward locking down great 5e-style combat. The turn-based system is tactical and rewarding, allowing players to strategically plan their moves and exploit enemy weaknesses. Environmental interactions and spell effects add an extra layer of complexity to battles, making each encounter unique and exhilarating. The adrenaline rush of defeating formidable foes is immensely satisfying, and the sense of achievement from mastering combat strategies is unmatched. But and this is a big butt. Though this is a really good start I would love to see it streamlined a little. Perhaps even a setting players can toggle off and on that allows for rolls to be more automated with different clicks or strokes.
Character progression is another aspect of the game that due to the limited number of levels it does seem like it is slow to progress. The class and ability systems are extensive and customizable, providing players with a myriad of choices to create their ideal character builds. Whether you prefer the stealthy approach of a rogue, the raw power of a barbarian, or the arcane mastery of a wizard, Baldur’s Gate 3 caters to every playstyle and encourages experimentation. All to be augmented by your party allowing your play style to stay fresh even after you choose a class.
It is impossible to overlook the breathtaking graphics and sound design of Baldur’s Gate 3. From its stunning visual effects to the evocative musical score, the game’s presentation pulls players deeper into the fantasy world, intensifying the overall experience.
In conclusion, Baldur’s Gate 3 on Steam is a tour de force in the RPG genre. Its enthralling narrative, strategic combat, and meticulous attention to detail set a new standard for modern role-playing games. Larian Studios has crafted a masterful adventure that captivates players from start to finish. This is going to be a game with a lot of replay value and mods to come in the future im sure. Baldur’s Gate 3 leans into its roots going funny, emotional, sexy, and action packed. Every campaign iver ever been in someone has always tried to solve their problems with romancing an NPC, causing havoc to get out of a situation, or just indulged their inner demons and dont the chaotic evil thing to do and just distroyed everything for no reason. An easy 9/10 but once I get through everything this game has to offer I may have to post an update.
Baldur’s Gate 3 is available for PC via Steam.
Related: Reviews by Greg Vander Velde
I've been a life long nerd and video game junkie known to associate with the likes of Link, Nathan Drake, Batman, and Master Chief. I'm a filmmaker by profession, but spend lots of time behind a controller escaping the real world. @GregVelde on Instagram/Twitter/YouTube
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