Baldur’s Gate 3 Review: Ushering in an RPG Renaissance

by Luis August 7, 2023

After a hiatus spanning more than two decades, the beloved roleplaying series returns with “Baldur’s Gate 3,” a grand testament to the rich tapestry of the Dungeons & Dragons universe. For both veterans awaiting this revival and newcomers alike, the game promises an epic journey brimming with choices, challenges, and charisma. This review dives deep into the heart of BG3’s narrative landscape, comparing its prowess to other RPG giants to determine whether it’s a worthy successor or merely a shadow of its past.

Baldur’s Gate 3 masterfully marries old-school charm with contemporary design. One of its standout features is the intricate character creation process. Mirroring the depth seen in traditional tabletop D&D, players might grapple with ‘option paralysis’ due to the sheer multitude of choices. From Elves to Dragonborn, the plethora of races and their subraces makes the initial selection a hefty task, proving both a blessing and a curse.

However, where other RPGs might gloss over aesthetics, BG3’s character customization shines, despite some limitations. Pre-set faces, rather than detracting from the experience, enhance animation quality—a design decision evident in facial expressions and detailed character interactions. That said, the hyper-realistic visages, likely borrowed from real-world face actors, somewhat detract from the fantastical nature of the setting. A bit more fantasy in our fantasy games would be welcome.

Comparing BG3 to its RPG peers, one can’t help but notice the D&D authenticity. While games like “The Witcher” or “Final Fantasy” have distinct mechanics, BG3 remains true to its tabletop roots. Every character attribute or skill significantly impacts the unfolding story—a feat few RPGs accomplish. From conversations that twist and turn based on the character’s background to combat that feels as strategic as a real D&D session, the game captures the essence of a living, breathing campaign.

Furthermore, the introduction of origin characters—pre-defined characters with their histories and agendas—is a brilliant stroke. These characters offer a unique storytelling avenue, revealing aspects of the world a custom character might overlook. And if you still crave the thrill of creation, these origin figures appear as potential allies in your journey, ensuring you don’t miss out on their rich backstories.

The innovation in turn-based combat deserves special mention. Unlike traditional systems where players might twiddle their thumbs waiting for their turn, BG3 introduces a simultaneous turn system for closely-matched initiatives, streamlining multiplayer encounters. The multiplayer mode, in itself, is a crowning jewel. Sharing the vast world with friends, be it exploring shadowy caverns or friendly in-party skirmishes, adds layers of immersion and camaraderie.

Exploration in Baldur’s Gate 3 is both visually stunning and deeply engaging. Larian Studios brings the world to life using a meticulously detailed environment with dynamic weather effects and a day-night cycle. The verticality of the map design is especially noteworthy. Players can climb, jump, or even teleport to advantageous positions in combat or to access hidden treasures.

The world isn’t just a static backdrop; it’s an active participant in your story. Players can interact with various elements in the environment. Bushes and tall grass allow for stealthy approaches, while bodies of water, explosive barrels, or treacherous ledges can be used strategically in combat. The world is filled with hidden alcoves and secrets that reward the curious and observant.

Drawing inspiration from classics like Dragon Age: Origins, the game introduces a camp mechanic where players can interact with their party members after a hard day’s adventuring. This isn’t merely a resting spot—it’s a hub for character development, romance, and plot progression. The interpersonal dynamics between party members evolve, offering deeper insights into their personalities and backgrounds.

Dialogue isn’t just mere conversations in BG3; they are central to the gaming experience. Players are regularly faced with choices that mold the game’s narrative direction. And it’s not just the major decisions—seemingly insignificant dialogues can lead to vast repercussions. This ensures that every playthrough can offer a distinct experience.