Baldur's Gate 3 is a project that has been highly anticipated by both longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike. The original Baldur's Gate, a classic in its own right, was developed by BioWare in 1998. Fast forward to 2023, and we find Larian Studios at the helm. These are the folks responsible for the critically acclaimed Divinity series, most notably Divinity: Original Sin II. So, when Wizards of the Coast tapped Larian Studios to create a new Baldur's Gate game, the excitement was palpable.

Baldur's Gate 3 is currently available on PC and is set to launch on PS5 in September, with an Xbox release on the horizon. We've had the opportunity to explore this fantastical world over the past few days, but it's essential to clarify that we didn't get our hands on it early. Considering the scale of the game and the intricate details it presents, our review is very much a work in progress, based on our initial experiences.

 

One of the fascinating aspects of Baldur's Gate 3 is the diversity of its gameplay. Whether you're a Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast or a complete newbie, the game offers an immersive experience. The story kicks off with a mysterious threat, the Mind Flayers, who are infecting people, including your character, with tadpole spore-like creatures. The early setup is just the tip of the iceberg, as the game delves into fantasy, political intrigue, the occult, and warring factions, all while emphasizing strong characters and relationships.

When you embark on your journey, you choose from seven origin characters, each with their own backstory, race, and class. These characters are intertwined with the story, making them compelling options. Alternatively, you can create a custom character, allowing you to shape your own unique path in the narrative.

The depth and breadth of role-playing opportunities in Baldur's Gate 3 are truly remarkable. The game's focus on character development and choices based on your character's traits, race, class, and backstory results in a vast array of possibilities. Each decision you make, every response you give, and every action you take influences the unfolding story. Your role-playing abilities and dice rolls play a significant role, adding an authentic D&D vibe without feeling forced.

While Baldur's Gate 3's world isn't the most expansive we've seen in open-world games, it's densely packed with content. Every corner you explore, every quest you undertake, and every piece of loot you acquire has a sense of purpose. The game tempts you with its intricacies, making it easy to get lost in its rich narrative tapestry.

The gameplay is challenging, with combat being a particular highlight. While the combat is turn-based, it remains fast-paced and demanding, providing a stark contrast to the extended battles seen in Divinity: Original Sin II. The encounters are thoughtfully designed and require tactical thinking. Environmental hazards and interactive elements add depth to the combat system, making each battle a unique and engaging experience.

Baldur's Gate 3 doesn't stop at combat; it incorporates various gameplay elements, such as environmental puzzles, navigation challenges, and platforming sections. These segments keep you engaged and on your toes, ensuring that you're always thinking on your feet.

 

Credit: Larian Studios

 

However, it's not all smooth sailing in Baldur's Gate 3. Some animations, such as climbing ladders or moving objects, can be awkward. At times, there are noticeable visual quirks, like untextured assets briefly flashing on screen during transitions. While the game mostly runs smoothly, some players may encounter performance issues, including crashes and stutters in dense areas.

The game's open-ended nature can occasionally leave players feeling directionless. The freedom to explore and undertake various quests can make it challenging to discern the primary path. Also, Baldur's Gate 3's reliance on manual saves can lead to significant progress loss if players forget to save before challenging encounters.

 

Baldur's Gate 3 is shaping up to be one of the standout games of the year, even from our early experiences. The commitment of both the developers and the community during the early access period has paid off in the final release. The depth of character development and role-playing opportunities is nothing short of remarkable.

The game's density is both a blessing and a potential curse, with numerous side quests and distractions awaiting players in every

 corner of the world. Baldur's Gate 3 challenges players to adapt to its intricacies and open-ended storytelling, which might feel daunting to newcomers but rewarding to those who invest the time.

While the game is still in progress, we're looking forward to uncovering more of what it has to offer. For D&D enthusiasts, this is the modern Baldur's D&D game you've been waiting for. For those new to the genre, it's a deep and immersive journey well worth undertaking.

In summary, Baldur's Gate 3 offers a magical adventure into the world of Dungeons & Dragons, filled with rich storytelling, memorable characters, and challenging gameplay. Whether you're a seasoned D&D veteran or a newcomer, the game welcomes you into its intricate and immersive universe. So, embark on this epic journey and let the dice decide your fate.