Baldur’s Gate 3: 5 Similarities & 5 Differences with 5E D&D
Baldur's Gate 3: 5 Similarities & 5 Differences with 5E D&D
10 Similar: Lore and Setting
Ah, the lore and setting of Baldur’s Gate 3, where it all begins. As any true Dungeons and Dragons fan can tell you, the rich world of Baldur’s Gate is home to some of the most epic adventures in the Sword Coast. And Larian Studios has faithfully recreated that feeling in their video game masterpiece.
Players will find themselves exploring familiar locations from the tabletop game and immersing themselves in the lore that brings the game to life. From the classes and races to the rules of magic and political intrigue, everything that makes D&D special has been lovingly recreated in Baldur’s Gate 3. It’s like playing a tabletop game without having to organize a gathering of your friends. Win-win!
9 Different: Rigid Plot
Storytime! As expected, Baldur’s Gate 3 has a plot and story threads for players to follow. But here’s where the game differs from your regular D&D campaign. In video games, the story is set in stone (even if there are different outcomes based on your choices). You don’t have the same creative freedom as a Dungeon Master who can tailor the story to fit your group’s choices and backgrounds.
But fear not, my adventurous friends! Even though player characters in Baldur’s Gate 3 can’t have their personal backgrounds seamlessly woven into the story, if you choose one of the origin characters, you can experience their individual story arc. So there’s still plenty of engaging storytelling to be had in this virtual realm.
8 Similar: Combat
Let the battle begin! Combat is a quintessential part of any Dungeons and Dragons experience, and video games are no exception. Hardcore D&D enthusiasts will feel right at home with Baldur’s Gate 3’s combat system, which faithfully recreates the turn-based nature of the tabletop game.
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Just like in a live game, combat in Baldur’s Gate 3 follows a turn-based system where players and monsters take their actions one after another. The order is determined by a creature’s initiative score, just like in the good ol’ pen-and-paper version. And the cherry on top? Surprise rounds, attacks of opportunity, and all those juicy combat mechanics are right there waiting for you to unleash your strategic prowess.
7 Different: Missing Character Classes and Races
Time to pick your role! While Baldur’s Gate 3 offers a robust selection of character classes, races, and gender options, it may not have the complete roster you’re used to. That doesn’t mean you won’t have plenty of choices, though!
With twelve vanilla classes, 46 subclasses, and 11 races (not counting subraces), you still have a wealth of options to create your unique character. However, it’s worth noting that some classes, subclasses, and races from subsequent D&D books are missing from the game. Dungeon Masters have the power to customize their worlds and characters, but if you’re looking for those extra options, you might have to wait for future updates… or take matters into your own hands with some clever modding!
6 Similar: Narration
Once upon a time… Dungeons and Dragons relied heavily on the Dungeon Master to spin a compelling story, narrating the plot and describing the world to the players. Baldur’s Gate 3 may rely more on visuals, but fear not, for the art of storytelling is not lost!
In this virtual realm, a narrator steps in to fill the DM’s shoes. They provide voiceover during interactions with characters and when examining objects, adding depth and flavor to the world beyond what meets the eye. So sit back, relax, and let the narrator guide you through the captivating tale that awaits.
5 Different: Lack of Perma-Death
Death, the ultimate game over… or is it? In D&D, character death can be tragic and demoralizing. Losing a beloved character you’ve crafted and bonded with can leave a void. But in Baldur’s Gate 3, death doesn’t have to be the end of your adventure!
Revivify spell scrolls, characters who can revive party members, and other in-game mechanics offer second chances. And if all else fails, the trusty “reload the save” trick can be a lifesaver. So don’t despair, my friends, for death is just a temporary setback in the world of Baldur’s Gate 3!
4 Similar: High Fantasy Adventure
Welcome to the realm of high fantasy! Dungeons and Dragons has always been synonymous with epic adventures, and Baldur’s Gate 3 keeps that tradition alive and kicking.
In this game, you’ll embark on a grand journey filled with dragons, monsters, and heroic quests that will challenge your courage and wit. So gather your friends (or play solo) and prepare for a high-fantasy adventure that will transport you to a world where anything is possible — as long as you roll that natural 20!
3 Different: No Dungeon Master
Ah, the Dungeon Master, the creative genius behind the curtain. In D&D, the DM is a crucial part of the storytelling process, creating the plot, controlling NPCs, and ensuring everyone has a blast at the table. But in Baldur’s Gate 3, the DM takes a back seat.
Unlike Larian’s other RPG masterpiece, Divinity: Original Sin 2, where players can take on the role of the DM, Baldur’s Gate 3 focuses on a different experience. While there may not be a human DM guiding your every move, fear not! The game’s narrator and AI are there to provide some of that DM magic. So even without a DM at the helm, you can still embark on incredible adventures and shape the fate of your character.
2 Similar: Co-Op with Friends
Grab your companions and prepare for an epic cooperative adventure! In Dungeons and Dragons, working together as a team is key, and the same holds true for Baldur’s Gate 3.
Whether you choose to team up with origin characters or dive into the game with your friends, cooperation is crucial for survival. Together, you’ll explore the world, face off against monsters, and save the day. Just remember, a true adventurer never embarks on a quest alone!
1 Different: No Option to Romance Friends’ Player Characters
Ah, romance, the realm of star-crossed lovers and dramatic tension. In D&D, some players can’t resist the temptation to pursue a romance with one of their friends’ characters, adding an extra layer of depth to their roleplaying experience.
But in the world of Baldur’s Gate 3, romance takes a different turn. While romance is an option, it’s limited to player characters and origin characters only. You won’t find any romantic entanglements between player characters or origin characters with other origin characters. At least for now… Who knows what the modding community might bring in the future? So for now, keep your character’s love life a little more focused, and let the dramatic sparks fly in your imagination.
Enjoy the world of Baldur’s Gate 3, adventurers! Remember, in this fantastic realm, both familiar and new, incredible adventures await. So roll those dice, embrace the unexpected, and may your journey be filled with laughter, epic battles, and unforgettable moments of joy!
