Baldur’s Gate 3 is a story-rich, party-based RPG set in the universe of Dungeons & Dragons, where your choices shape a tale of fellowship and betrayal, survival and sacrifice, and the lure of absolute power.
The game allows players to interact with the world in creative and unexpected ways, blurring the line between RPG and immersive sim gameplay. For example, players can pick up and move objects to create platforms, use explosive barrels to eliminate enemies, or even befriend and side with certain factions. The level design and vertical exploration encourage experimentation, as players can discover new paths and approaches to challenges.
The combat is deeply tactical, based on the Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition ruleset. Players must carefully consider the positioning of their party, the use of the environment, and the synergy between different class abilities to emerge victorious. Each encounter is hand-crafted, providing a diverse range of challenges that reward various strategies and playstyles.
Exploration is a core pillar of the experience, as the richly detailed and vertically layered game world hides numerous secrets and stories for players to uncover. Examining the surroundings, interacting with objects, and uncovering narratives woven throughout the Forgotten Realms consistently provide a sense of discovery and engagement.
The game places a strong emphasis on player agency and the impact of their choices. The non-linear narrative offers multiple paths and branching quests, with decisions having tangible consequences not only in the immediate situation but also in the long-term development of the story and relationships with companions. The outcomes can vary significantly based on the player's actions, encouraging experimentation and multiple playthroughs.
Character creation and progression offer a great deal of depth and versatility. Players can choose from a wide range of races, subraces, classes, and subclasses from the Dungeons & Dragons Player's Handbook, allowing for a vast array of character builds and playstyles. The character creator provides unprecedented levels of customization, enabling players to truly personalize their protagonist. As characters level up, they gain access to an expansive set of spells, abilities, and options that continue to expand the player's tactical toolkit and decision-making process.