With the third title in theBaldur’s Gateseries set for full release next year, fans may be wondering if it’s time to revisit the beginnings of the franchise. If theDark Alliancehack-and-slash titles are ignored, as well as the enhanced versions of the original releases, it’s been over 20 years since theBaldur’s Gatemain series has seen a new title. Fans ofBaldur’s Gate 3may want to temper their expectations when looking back into BioWare’s catalog.
While the first twoBaldur’s Gategames are well-regarded by fans, they bear all the hallmarks oflengthy 90s RPGs. Not only do their respective mechanics show their age, but both can be extremely difficult experiences compared to more modern RPGs. Still, with their important place in video game history, they offer a unique experience that many fans may still enjoy.
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Is Baldur’s Gate Worth Trying in 2022
Baldur’s Gatecan be an incredible, yet frustrating experience. LikeBaldur’s Gate 2, it’s set in the mysterious and dark world ofthe Forgotten Realms— the same world asIcewind DaleandNeverwinter Nights. Unlike the sequel, however, the originalBaldur’s Gateis a much more open-ended and difficult experience. In a sense,Baldur’s Gatebetter captures theDungeons & Dragonsexperience, since there is more choice left up to the player, but it can also end up being downright confusing.
Baldur’s Gateis unequivocally worth checking out, but it is generally considered the lesser of the first two games for the aforementioned reasons. If players are forced to choose between the first two titles,Baldur’s Gate 2should be the go-to choice for its more user-friendly experience. Whilelovers of high fantasywill undoubtedly enjoy the originalBaldur’s Gate, it may be too slow-paced and directionless for most people to casually enjoy.
The Case for Baldur’s Gate 2
Widely regarded as one of thebestDungeons & Dragonsgames of all time,Baldur’s Gate 2improved on the original and offered a more railroaded, yet streamlined experience. While the originalBaldur’s Gatesuffers from giving the player too much freedom,Baldur’s Gate 2takes the wheel and guides the player through a rivetingDungeons & Dragonscampaign. Like the first game, it can be a bit challenging for new players to adapt to theBaldur’s Gatestyle of adventure and combat, but it more than rewards players for doing so.
Luckily, theenhanced version ofBaldur’s Gate 2offers an even better experience than the original game. A number of pesky bugs were hammered out, the interface got a serious update, and it also includes all of the much-beloved expansions. While fans may hem and haw about whether to recommend the originalBaldur’s Gate, the collective opinion aroundBaldur’s Gate 2is more or less unanimous — it’s absolutely worth playing.
Baldur’s Gate 1-2 Are Best Experienced in Single-player
Even though the enhanced versions have made massive strides towards improving the functionality of multiplayer, both of the first twoBaldur’s Gategames are best left to solo players. For those that have only experiencedBaldur’s Gate 3in early access, it’s important to keep in mind that the original games come from a different era entirely. With the right group,Baldur’s Gate 1and2can absolutely be enjoyed in multiplayer, but the constant pausing and decision-making will still derail most sessions rather quickly.
The best way to explain the multiplayer inBaldur’s Gate 1and2— and evenBaldur’s Gate 3to some extent — is to compare it to a pen-and-paperDungeons & Dragonsgame. As another player is making decisions, there isn’t much to do but sit and wait. In a tabletop session, this is to be expected, but in video games it can be a rather jarring experience, which ultimately meansBaldur’s Gateand its sequels are best enjoyed in single-player.
Baldur’s Gate 1: Enhanced EditionandBaldur’s Gate 2: Enhanced Editionare available now on PC, PlayStation 4, Switch, and Xbox One.
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