Gear Up for Adventure: Essential Games to Play Before Baldur’s Gate 3
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So, you’re itching to dive into the Forgotten Realms but want to make sure you’re fully prepared for the sprawling epic that is Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3)? Smart move! While BG3 is designed to be accessible to newcomers, a little background in the CRPG (Computer Role-Playing Game) genre, and particularly titles with similar mechanics and storytelling styles, can significantly enhance your experience. In short, the games you should consider playing before Baldur’s Gate 3 are Divinity: Original Sin 2, Pillars of Eternity I & II, and even taking a peek at the original Baldur’s Gate I & II titles. Each offers unique elements that will sharpen your skills and deepen your appreciation for BG3’s complexities. Let’s dive in!
Laying the Groundwork: Essential CRPGs
While Baldur’s Gate 3 is designed to be accessible to new players, having a basic understanding of the core CRPG mechanics will make you a more effective adventurer. This knowledge also makes for a more relaxed and immersive experience in Faerun.
Divinity: Original Sin 2
This is the absolute top recommendation. Developed by Larian Studios, the same team behind BG3, Divinity: Original Sin 2 (DOS2) shares many gameplay elements, including turn-based combat, environmental interactions, and a heavy emphasis on player choice.
- Why it’s essential: Think of DOS2 as a training ground. It introduces you to Larian’s design philosophy, particularly their approach to combat. You’ll learn how to utilize environmental advantages (oil barrels, anyone?), exploit elemental weaknesses, and craft intricate strategies. The story is fantastic, with compelling characters and a rich world.
- Key skills to acquire: Mastering the combat system, experimenting with different character builds, understanding the importance of dialogue choices, and learning to think creatively to solve problems.
Pillars of Eternity I & II: Deadfire
Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, the Pillars of Eternity series offers a different flavor of CRPG, rooted in the classic Infinity Engine games like the original Baldur’s Gate.
- Why they’re essential: Pillars excels in world-building and lore. Its dense text and intricate storylines require patience and attentiveness, qualities that will serve you well in BG3. The real-time with pause combat (which you can adjust) offers a strategic approach that rewards planning. Learning the importance of party composition and understanding character synergies is crucial.
- Key skills to acquire: Navigating complex dialogues, managing your party effectively in real-time combat, understanding character classes and abilities, and absorbing vast amounts of lore.
Baldur’s Gate I & II: Enhanced Editions
These classics are the grandfathers of the series. While graphically dated, they offer a nostalgic trip to the Forgotten Realms and provide a deeper understanding of the world and some of the returning characters.
- Why they’re valuable: Experiencing the original stories gives you context for the world of Baldur’s Gate and the stakes involved. While not strictly necessary, recognizing returning characters like Minsc and Jaheira adds an extra layer of appreciation. It’s like reading the source material before watching the movie adaptation.
- Key skills to acquire: Appreciating the history of the series, understanding the core D&D ruleset (albeit an earlier edition), and developing patience for older game mechanics.
Optional Extras: Diving Deeper
These games aren’t essential in the same way as the ones above, but they offer valuable lessons or unique perspectives that can enrich your BG3 experience.
Pathfinder: Kingmaker & Wrath of the Righteous
These CRPGs are known for their deep character customization and challenging combat. While Pathfinder uses a different ruleset (based on Pathfinder RPG), the core concepts of party management, tactical combat, and character building are similar to D&D.
Wasteland 3
From the masterminds behind the original Fallout, Wasteland 3 is a post-apocalyptic RPG featuring turn-based combat and a focus on player choice. It is a fantastic game that can help to strengthen your strategic thinking.
Disco Elysium
Though not directly combat-focused, Disco Elysium is a masterclass in storytelling and dialogue. Its emphasis on character development and moral choices will resonate with BG3 players who enjoy shaping their character’s personality and influencing the narrative.
Brushing Up on D&D 5e
Baldur’s Gate 3 is based on the 5th Edition of Dungeons & Dragons. Familiarizing yourself with the basic rules will make understanding the combat mechanics and character abilities much easier. You don’t need to memorize everything, but knowing the basics of advantage/disadvantage, saving throws, and spellcasting will go a long way. The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) might also have relevant resources on game mechanics.
Final Preparations
Besides playing other games, remember to:
- Decide on a character concept: What class and race are you interested in playing?
- Manage your expectations: BG3 is a complex game. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and learn as you go.
- Embrace the chaos: The beauty of BG3 (and CRPGs in general) is that things rarely go according to plan. Embrace the unexpected and enjoy the ride!
Playing these games before Baldur’s Gate 3 provides a fantastic basis for enjoying and exploring this epic CRPG. Good luck, and may your dice rolls be ever in your favor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate your journey to Baldur’s Gate 3 readiness:
1. Do I need to play any other games before Baldur’s Gate 3?
No, you don’t need to. Baldur’s Gate 3 is designed to be accessible to newcomers. However, playing other CRPGs, especially Divinity: Original Sin 2, can significantly enhance your experience.
2. Is Baldur’s Gate 3 a direct sequel to Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2?
Not exactly. While it takes place in the same world and features some returning characters, the story is largely independent. You don’t need to know the plot of the first two games to enjoy BG3.
3. I’m new to CRPGs. Where should I start?
Divinity: Original Sin 2 is the most recommended starting point. It’s relatively modern, has excellent tutorials, and introduces you to Larian’s unique brand of CRPG gameplay.
4. Are the older Baldur’s Gate games worth playing today?
If you appreciate classic RPGs, then yes! The Enhanced Editions make them more accessible. However, be prepared for dated graphics and mechanics.
5. Which class is best for beginners in Baldur’s Gate 3?
Fighter and Cleric are often recommended for beginners. They’re relatively straightforward to play and offer a good balance of combat abilities and utility.
6. What’s the difference between real-time with pause combat and turn-based combat?
Real-time with pause combat (like in Pillars of Eternity) involves controlling your party in real-time, but you can pause the action to issue commands. Turn-based combat (like in Divinity: Original Sin 2 and BG3) involves each character taking turns to perform actions.
7. How important is knowing the D&D 5e ruleset?
Knowing the basics is helpful, but not essential. Baldur’s Gate 3 does a good job of explaining the rules as you go.
8. Is Baldur’s Gate 3 difficult?
It can be challenging, especially on higher difficulty settings. But don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes. You can adjust the difficulty at any time.
9. How long is Baldur’s Gate 3?
A typical playthrough focusing on the main story can take around 50-60 hours. Completionists can easily spend over 100 hours exploring every nook and cranny.
10. Does race matter in Baldur’s Gate 3?
Yes! Your race can influence dialogue options, character interactions, and even certain quests. Experiment to find a race that fits your character concept.
11. What if I don’t have time to play all these games before BG3?
Focus on Divinity: Original Sin 2. It’s the most relevant preparation you can do.
12. What are some good resources for learning about D&D 5e?
The D&D Player’s Handbook is the definitive guide. Online resources like D&D Beyond are also helpful.
13. Should I play Baldur’s Gate 3 in single-player or multiplayer?
Both are great options! Single-player allows you to fully control the pace and story. Multiplayer is a fun way to experience the game with friends.
14. What is the level cap in Baldur’s Gate 3?
The maximum level is 12.
15. What if I get stuck in Baldur’s Gate 3?
There are many online resources, forums, and communities dedicated to Baldur’s Gate 3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Embarking on your Baldur’s Gate 3 journey is an exciting prospect. By preparing yourself with the right games and knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the Forgotten Realms and forge your own legend. Happy adventuring!