Baldur’s Gate 3: A Colossal Achievement in RPGs (Once You Figure It Out!)
BG3's combat may be perplexing, but it is still possible to understand
Game-changing Baldur’s Gate 3 tips that you won’t learn from the game
Now that I’m over 150 hours into Baldur’s Gate 3, still actively playing it on my Steam Deck or PC almost every single evening, you’d never guess that I initially gave up on the game 10 hours in. Yes, I was playing on the easiest setting. Yes, I have played Dungeons & Dragons multiple times before, and I understand how D&D works. None of that was a problem for me. But I found myself in a frustrated rage because Baldur’s Gate 3 has multiple complicated aspects to its turn-based combat that are never explained.
I never would have gone back to the game if I hadn’t seen so many funny clips shared on social media. After that, I became convinced that I wanted to see more of the story, so I dove back into Baldur’s Gate 3 and forced my way through its absurd learning curve. I’m glad I did – the game is a colossal achievement in RPG design and character work. Its combat turns out to be extremely fun, too, and it’s challenging in all the best ways – but only once you actually learn how to fight, which to be clear, the game will scarcely lift a finger to teach you.
12 Things to Know Before Starting Baldur’s Gate 3
Did you just purchase Baldur’s Gate 3 as a holiday present for yourself, and now you’re wondering if you made a huge mistake because you don’t understand how the hell to get through the first few fights? Don’t worry, I’m here to help! Here are some tips and tricks I wish I had known when I first started playing.
You Have to Understand How Other Classes Work
You know how in D&D, you build a character and then you play as that character for the entire campaign? Not so in Baldur’s Gate 3. The game features companion NPCs that are essential to your success in battle and in conversation. You’ll need to learn the intricacies of each class and find a playstyle that suits them. Each class feels completely different and requires a unique approach to combat. So, be prepared to adapt and have a diverse set of skills at your disposal.
Elemental Attacks – Fire, Ice, and So On – Cancel Each Other Out
Let’s say you’ve got one character using a spell slot to shoot off Ice Storm at a group of enemies for a huge pop of damage — and the chance to make them slip and fall on an ice patch if they try to move. Then, on your next turn, you prompt the next character to shoot a fire arrow at that enemy. Wrong!!!! Bad strategy!!!! Unless you wanted that useful ice to become a little puddle of water.
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Baldur’s Gate 3 operates according to the same principles as Pokémon. “Examine” enemies to see their resistances and plan your attacks accordingly. Mixing conflicting types of elemental damage can cancel out the potential for further damage. So, pay attention to the damage numbers and choose attacks and items that will actually hurt your enemies without canceling anything out.
Don’t “End Turn” Too Soon
You’re done attacking an enemy and you’re about to press the button that ends your turn. But wait!!! Did you forget anything?
Take a look at the bottom of the combat screen in Baldur’s Gate 3. There are various buttons available even after you’ve attacked. Use the “push” button to shove enemies away or inflict the “prone” status, which slows them down. Additionally, check if you have a bonus action available. Bonus actions can be highly beneficial and do not cost any actions. For example, casting a free healing spell can be a lifesaver. So, make sure to utilize all the options available to you before ending your turn.
How to Use Items
During my frustrating first 10 hours in Baldur’s Gate 3, I only really used health potions. But what about every other item in your possession? Well, not all potions are made equal, and obviously, you would not use them all in the same way. For example, clicking on an acid or poison vial in your inventory will allow your character to coat their weapon with the substance, adding extra damage.
Read the descriptions of your items carefully and experiment to figure out their best uses. You’ll also come across magic scrolls, which are single-use items. Unless you’re a wizard, you won’t learn the spell permanently, but they can still be useful in battle. So, don’t hoard your items. Use them strategically to gain the upper hand.
Don’t Dip Your Weapons
OK, OK – you can dip your weapons, but only once you’ve actually learned how to do everything else in the combat menu first. Dipping your weapons into an acid vial or any other potion you have on hand is not possible. You can only dip your weapon into a substance that’s already nearby in the physical world, like a grease puddle on the ground. While the option sounds useful, it’s not always the most practical choice. Instead, consider using items that have elemental damage or select the appropriate substances via the item selection menu.
Going Back to Camp
Going to “camp” in Baldur’s Gate 3 is a bit of a mind-bender. Your camp is not a physical place you can walk to, but rather a metaphysical island that you navigate to via the menu. At camp, you can take short rests that restore some health and refresh class-specific skills or take long rests that recharge everything, including spell slots.
Make sure to use your short rests wisely, as you can only take two before you must take a long rest. While at camp, you can interact with NPC companions, store items, and even engage in companion cutscenes. It’s a hub of activity and a place where important moments in the game’s story can unfold.
Some Parts of This Game Won’t Ever “Feel” Good
Here’s a truth you need to accept when playing Baldur’s Gate 3 – some aspects of the game will always feel tedious and frustrating. The numerous fiddly UI screens and the intricate inventory management can be tiresome. But trust me, it’s worth enduring these frustrations for the incredible story and challenging gameplay that await you.
After spending over 150 hours with Baldur’s Gate 3, I can promise you that it’s a journey worth taking. So, embrace the learning curve, experiment with different strategies, and remember to have fun, even when the game doesn’t hold your hand!
Q&A Content
Q: Can I play Baldur’s Gate 3 solo?
A: While it’s possible to play Baldur’s Gate 3 solo, it’s highly recommended to play with a four-person party. The game is designed to be played with companions, both in battle and in conversation. Each companion brings unique abilities and adds depth to the game’s story and character interactions.
Q: How can I make the combat in Baldur’s Gate 3 more manageable?
A: Understanding the different classes and their mechanics is crucial for success in combat. Take the time to learn each class’s strengths and weaknesses and experiment with different playstyles. Additionally, pay attention to enemy resistances and choose attacks that exploit their vulnerabilities. Strategic thinking and careful planning are key to overcoming challenging battles.
Q: What are some essential tips for beginners in Baldur’s Gate 3?
A: Firstly, don’t be discouraged by the initial learning curve. Embrace the complexity of the game and take the time to understand its mechanics. Secondly, don’t hesitate to experiment and try different strategies in combat. Lastly, don’t neglect the importance of dialogue choices and character interactions. Engaging with the story and forming relationships with your companions will greatly enhance your overall experience.
References
- 12 things to know before starting Baldur’s Gate 3
- Baldur’s Gate 3 Player Combines Lae’zel and Shadowheart Into One Character
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