Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Baldur's Gate 3.
What is Baldur's Gate 3?
Baldur's Gate 3 is a critically acclaimed role-playing video game developed by Larian Studios, set in the Forgotten Realms universe of Dungeons & Dragons. It features deep narrative choices, tactical turn-based combat, and an expansive open world where player decisions shape the story.
Who are the main companions available to join my party?
Key companions include Astarion, a drow vampire spawn; Shadowheart, a mysterious cleric of Shar; and Gale, a powerful wizard seeking redemption. Each character has unique backstories, personal quests, and distinct abilities that influence gameplay and narrative outcomes.
Where should I start playing the game?
New players begin their journey as an infected tadpole victim on the Nautiloid ship, which crashes near the Sword Coast. From there, you can explore the Wilderness, act in the Emerald Grove, or interact with the goblin camp to advance the main plot.
What is the primary antagonist of the game?
The central villain is the Absolute, a cult worshipping a mysterious entity known as the Netherbrain that seeks to enslave minds across Faerûn. The player must uncover the true identity behind this threat while stopping the tadpole infection from spreading.
How does the character creation system work?
Players can customize their origin by selecting from various races, classes, and backgrounds, or choose one of several pre-made Origin characters with unique storylines. These choices determine starting stats, skill proficiencies, and how NPCs react to your presence.
What are the most notable moments in the game's narrative?
Memorable events include the confrontation at Moonrise Towers, the fate of the Emerald Grove goblins, and the final battle against the Netherbrain. These moments often hinge on player alignment, dialogue choices, and previous actions taken throughout the campaign.
Is the game based on a specific Dungeons & Dragons edition?
Yes, Baldur's Gate 3 is built upon the mechanics of the fifth edition (5e) ruleset of Dungeons & Dragons. Larian Studios adapted these tabletop rules for digital play, maintaining core systems like spell slots and ability checks while adding video game-specific features.
Can I replay the story with different outcomes?
Absolutely; the game offers multiple endings determined by your moral alignment, companion relationships, and key decisions made during critical plot points. Replaying allows you to explore alternative paths, such as saving or sacrificing specific characters.
Who created Baldur's Gate 3?
The game was developed by Larian Studios, a Belgian studio known for the Divinity series and its work on the Dungeons & Dragons Critical Role campaign. It serves as a spiritual successor to the classic Baldur's Gate games originally made by BioWare.
What platforms can I play Baldur's Gate 3 on?
The game is available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, with full cross-save support allowing players to continue their journey across different devices. Each version includes optimized controls and features tailored to the specific platform.