Zion Tech Group

Tag: Baldurs

  • Baldur’s Gate 3


    Hiya hiya,

    If you want to stay in the loop on all our news and updates, we’re now shouting into the void from even more corners of the internet. You might have noticed our slumbering BlueSky account is dusted off and now active. Then our Community Team took the next most natural step and joined Tumblr – because if the gang are going to star in a thousand slow-burn romance fics, we might as well be there to see it.

    In other news, some of you on PS5 might have accidentally stumbled into Patch 8 a little early – whoops! If you’re one of the few wondering what the heck is going on, don’t worry. You can roll back to Patch 7 by deleting and reinstalling the game. Full details here, click away. Think of it as a time-travel mechanic.

    And with that, the Patch 8 stress test is in fact now live for Xbox, PlayStation, and PC!

    If you’ve registered to take part on either PlayStation or PC, look out for an email from us with your game code and details on how to access the stress test.

    If you’ve registered through the Xbox Insider Programme, the Baldur’s Gate 3 Stress Test application is now live in the Xbox Insider Hub, for you to download! For more details on this, please click here.

    To learn more about how to set up a cross-play lobby and discover the bug fixes arriving in Patch 8, please read on!

    Cross-Play

    During the Patch 8 stress test, Xbox, PlayStation, and PC players will be able to test out cross-play by either creating or joining a lobby.

    If you want to try out cross-play with your friends on other platforms and have now been given access to the stress test but your friends haven’t, you can request extra Patch 8 stress test keys for PlayStation and Steam (PC) by heading to: https://larian.com/account/connected and linking your game account with your Larian account.

    Check out the handy video below for a step-by-step on getting set up with cross-play!
     

    After enabling cross-play from the multiplayer online settings, you’ll be able to either create or join your own cross-play multiplayer lobby. Head to the Multiplayer menu, select Cross-Play and create your lobby! 

    For the Patch 8 stress test, we recommend that console players host a cross-play lobby if wanting to play with a PC player.
    You can add friends using the Larian Network by clicking on the + icon from the Create Lobby screen during cross-play set-up. Enter their Larian account username and send the request! Once they have accepted it, you will be able to view them online and invite them to your lobby.

    Playing with mods during cross-play:

    While we recommend that console players host a cross-play lobby, if you’re looking to join a modded PC lobby, the PC host must have less than 100 mods installed on that save and only include mods that are accepted on console and Mac, which are indicated by the “Available on Mac and Console” tag when browsing available mods. Otherwise, a mod mismatch will be detected, and you will not be able to join the host’s game.

    Xbox Series S Split-Screen Co-Op

    Wanting to play multiplayer a little closer to home? Patch 8 will also bring split-screen to Xbox Series S consoles! If you’re joining the stress test from an Xbox, you’ll be able to try this out early.

    Register For The Patch 8 Stress Test

    The stress test is now live, and if you’ve already registered on either PlayStation or PC, access details will be sent to your email inbox. If you’re playing on Xbox, you’ll need to download the Xbox Insider Hub App to become an Xbox Insider and join the playtest from the app.

    If you haven’t signed up yet, you can still register your interest by clicking on the banner below!
     

     

    Please note: Access will be granted in waves throughout the testing period. Registering your interest does not guarantee you will be given access.

    Patch 8 Highlights 

    While some of you will get to try out Patch 8 for yourself, starting today, here’s just some of what you can expect with Patch 8 once it is ready for release!

    SPOILERS – Please bear in mind some of the entries below might contain spoilers, proceed at your own risk 

    Highlights

    • Photo mode
    • 12 new subclasses
    • Cross-play
    • Xbox Series S split screen

    Gameplay

    • When you succeed a Perception check, the spotted item will now ping on the minimap and be listed in the combat log.
    • Fixed an issue where the special abilities of some of your allies weren’t properly provided at the end of the dialogue with them at High Hall. 
    • Scrolls and potions inside unlocked containers in your party inventory can now be used when rolling in dialogues.
    • Neutral and friendly NPCs will no longer become hostile when, outside of combat, they walk into surfaces created during combat that trigger passives (like electrified surfaces triggering Thunderbolt Strike). Take it easy, lads.
    • Fixed Freecast being reset when any condition is applied.
    • Fixed characters getting stuck when pathfinding via a ladder that’s already in use by another companion.
    • Fixed a bug with the moving platform in the Gauntlet of Shar that would sometimes leave you behind, causing you to plummet to your death.

    Combat

    • Fixed an issue causing neutral NPCs to trigger combat for seemingly no reason.
    • Cerys will stop getting involved in combats with Minthara from across the region. An eager beaver no longer.

    Modding

    • Fixed an issue causing you to get stuck at a 0% loading screen when attempting to join a multiplayer session that uses mods.
    • The Mod Verification window will now trigger regardless of where the request to connect to a multiplayer game is coming from.
    • Replaced the third-party mod warning with clearer messaging.

    Performance and Options

    • Fixed the ruleset selector not appearing on the ‘Alter Custom Mode’ screen when accessing the ruleset settings via the multiplayer lobby.
    • Improved server performance in the Adamantine Forge.

    Scripting and Flow

    • Fixed an issue where you could tell Astarion that Gandrel has been looking for him even if Gandrel refused to tell you the name of his prey.
    • Fixed a savegame issue where you wouldn’t get the appropriate amount of Umbral Gems for the Gauntlet of Shar.
    • Minthara now comments on the Emperor’s reveal.
    • Reminded Minthara that ‘knocked out’ does not mean ‘dead’, so she’ll more reliably appear in Moonrise Towers.
    • You can no longer teleport out of Moonrise while controlling Minthara unless you tell her to stay put.
    • Minthara is now willing to talk to you after you tell her to wait in the torture chamber.
    • Minthara no longer gets stuck babysitting Thaniel in Act II.
    • Fixed an issue where you could talk about Art Cullagh as though he’s alive even if he isn’t.
    • Your character will no longer think Shadowheart is dead if she isn’t when talking to Viconia.
    • Characters who were in a relationship with Gale when he sacrifices himself in the endgame to defeat the Netherbrain will now receive a tonally appropriate (read: lovey-dovey) letter.
    • Fixed a dialogue issue preventing Avatar Gale from talking about the orb to Lae’zel after consuming a magic item.

    UI

    • Discovered and available (non-hostile, alive, etc.) traders are now shown on the world map regardless of how far away you are from them.

    Cinematics

    • Shadowheart has agreed to stop repeatedly changing her hair colour during certain intimate moments.

    • Tidied up and improved some cinematic animations for characters of different heights if you kiss during the evil ending.

    Writing

    • Fixed a duplicated dialogue option and the wrong version of another dialogue option appearing in Minthara’s main party dialogue.

    Patch 8 will bring a multitude of fixes for various crashes and blockers, combat bugs, scripting and flow issues, and more. The full patch notes will be shared once Patch 8 goes live!

    Reporting Bugs During The Stress Test

    Internal playtesting has been ongoing for several weeks now, and thanks to the introduction of photo mode in Patch 8, our playtesters have discovered new means to highlight some interesting issues.

    While we don’t expect you to showcase every unexpected bug you run into (please, don’t do that), we would be grateful if you could report any issues you experience in the Patch 8 stress test using the existing bug reporting form. Please make sure to state “Patch 8” in the Game Version field! 

    Known Issues

     

    Known Issues

    As the Patch 8 stress test is a work-in-progress build, we’re aware of some issues, and have listed the ones relevant to the new features coming in Patch 8 below!

    Modding

    While it’s our hope that supported mods remain mostly unscathed with Patch 8, this stress test also helps us understand how your mods interact with the latest patch and identify any issues ahead of release.
     

    • ImpUI users may find that radial descriptions aren’t visible, and some menu options don’t work as intended. If you are joining us for the stress test, we recommend creating a new save or loading an existing save that does not use ImpUI or any mods that use ImpUI as a dependency.

    Photo Mode

    • Photo Mode becomes visually corrupted when using Vulkan.

    Cross-Play & Multiplayer

    • Some lines in the cross-play settings aren’t fully localised. 
    • Players in a multiplayer lobby can lose movement input after picking up an item.

    UX

    • Some keyboard hotkeys and controller buttons may stop working after trading with merchants.

    Keep an eye out for updates during the Patch 8 stress test as we continue working on fixing these issues!

    Sharing Your Experience

    We want to know how you get on with Patch 8, so we have created a short form for you to share your experience with us. If you’ve been accepted into the stress test, look out for the link in your access email!

    And with that, we’ll catch you next time.

     



    “Baldur’s Gate 3: Everything You Need to Know About the Highly Anticipated RPG Sequel”

    Are you ready to embark on a new adventure in the legendary world of Baldur’s Gate? The highly anticipated sequel, Baldur’s Gate 3, is finally here and fans of the series are buzzing with excitement. From the developers at Larian Studios, known for their critically acclaimed Divinity: Original Sin series, Baldur’s Gate 3 promises to deliver a thrilling RPG experience that stays true to the beloved Dungeons & Dragons universe.

    In Baldur’s Gate 3, players will once again journey through the iconic city of Baldur’s Gate and beyond, facing off against dangerous foes, making difficult choices, and unraveling a complex narrative filled with twists and turns. With stunning graphics, deep character customization, and engaging gameplay mechanics, this long-awaited sequel is sure to captivate both new and longtime fans of the series.

    Stay tuned for more updates on Baldur’s Gate 3 as we dive deeper into the world of Dungeons & Dragons and uncover the secrets that lie within this epic RPG adventure. Get ready to embark on a journey like never before in Baldur’s Gate 3!

    Tags:

    Baldur’s Gate 3, Baldur’s Gate 3 review, Baldur’s Gate 3 gameplay, Baldur’s Gate 3 release date, Baldur’s Gate 3 characters, Baldur’s Gate 3 storyline, Baldur’s Gate 3 features, Baldur’s Gate 3 PC, Baldur’s Gate 3 console, Baldur’s Gate 3 RPG, Baldur’s Gate 3 fantasy game.

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  • Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8 Accidentally Released Early to PS5 Players


    Baldur’s Gate 3’s long-awaited Patch 8 is currently available to players on PS5…but it’s not supposed to be.

    In a social media post today, the official Larian Studios account revealed that PS5 players do indeed have access to Patch 8 through what seems to be an accident somewhere, as the patch itself isn’t ready for prime time.

    “No, the Patch 8 stress test hasn’t yet begun,” the post reads. “Yes, PS5 players do currently have access to Patch 8. While we work with our partners to understand what’s going on, please note that any new saves made while on Patch 8 will not be compatible with Patch 7.

    “How’s your Monday going?”

    Patch 8 was first announced back in December and is the final major update expected for Baldur’s Gate 3. It’s planned to add cross-platform progression and play, photo mode, and 12 new subclasses, as well as new abilities, animations, VFX, summons, cantrips, and even voicelines. It’s a massive update that promises to really shake things up a year and a half after launch, and while it’s seemingly due out this month, today’s PS5 release seems to have jumped the gun a bit.

    Late last month, Larian opened registrations for a stress test of Patch 8, which it opened to players on PC via Steam and on console via Xbox and PlayStation. However, that stress test hasn’t actually happened yet, and as Larian wrote, this release on PS5 is not the stress test.

    For now, it’s probably recommended for PS5 players not to download this patch just yet in case it comes with unintended bugs or other issues, and as Larian says, saves won’t be compatible with Patch 7 if you need to roll back for any reason. Proceed with caution here.

    But the good news is that even if this was an error, it sounds like Larian is inching much closer to releasing Patch 8 in earnest. We’ll be keeping an eye out for news of the actual stress test and the release itself, which seems likely to make what we called a 10/10 game at launch even better.

    Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. You can find her posting on BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.



    Attention all Baldur’s Gate 3 players on PS5! Patch 8 was accidentally released early to PS5 players, bringing a slew of new updates and fixes to the game. This unexpected release has caught many by surprise, but fear not, as the developers are working quickly to address any issues that may arise.

    Some of the key highlights of Patch 8 include:

    – Improved performance and stability on the PS5 platform
    – Additional bug fixes and optimizations for a smoother gameplay experience
    – New character customization options and equipment upgrades
    – Enhanced graphics and visual effects for a more immersive gaming experience

    While the early release of Patch 8 may have been unexpected, players can take advantage of the new updates and features ahead of schedule. Stay tuned for further updates from the developers on any additional changes or fixes that may be implemented in the near future.

    Happy adventuring in Baldur’s Gate 3!

    Tags:

    Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8, PS5, early release, accidental release, Baldur’s Gate 3 update, PS5 players, RPG game, video game news

    #Baldurs #Gate #Patch #Accidentally #Released #Early #PS5 #Players

  • Final Baldur’s Gate 3 update is here for cross-play stress testing


    After an unplanned early release on PlayStation 5 yesterday, the final major update for Baldur’s Gate 3 is now available for stress testing on all platforms.

    To get in on Patch 8 early, players must sign up on the website (Xbox users need an app) and hope you’re lucky enough to be chosen in one of several waves of invites Larian Studios will be sending throughout the testing period. Or you might have it already installed on your PS5 through an unintentional update that could brick your saves. Larian recommends reverting back to Patch 7 by uninstalling and reinstalling your game.

    Patch 8 is a big one, bringing cross-play multiplayer between all platforms, a detailed photo mode, 12 new subclasses, and split-screen co-op for Xbox Series S players.

    Cross-play looks relatively simple to setup in Larian’s video tutorial. After enabling it in the options, players can create a lobby and invite others via their Larian Network account names. Joining games is easy too, and the game will prompt you with what mods to download should the host of that lobby require them. However, Larian warns PC players hoping to play with console friends that they will need to limit themselves to 100 mods that work on all platforms.

    The new subclasses give you an excuse to start up another playthrough too. Here’s a list of every new subclass and their corresponding starter class:

    Larian hasn’t put a date on when to expect the final version of Patch 8 to go live other than sometime this year. Once that happens, the studio will be moving on from the series to focus on something outside Dungeons & Dragons.



    Exciting news for Baldur’s Gate 3 fans! The final update for the highly anticipated game is here, and it includes cross-play stress testing. Players will now have the opportunity to test out the cross-play functionality with friends on different platforms.

    This update marks a significant milestone in the development of Baldur’s Gate 3, as players will now be able to experience the game with their friends regardless of what platform they are playing on. Whether you’re on PC, Xbox, or PlayStation, you can now team up and embark on epic adventures together.

    The cross-play stress testing will help developers identify any potential issues and ensure a smooth experience for players when the game officially launches. This is a great opportunity for fans to get a taste of what’s to come and provide valuable feedback to the development team.

    So gather your party and get ready to dive into the world of Baldur’s Gate 3 with your friends. The final update is here, and the cross-play stress testing is underway. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be a part of the game’s development process!

    Tags:

    Baldur’s Gate 3, cross-play, stress testing, final update, multiplayer, RPG, Larian Studios, video game, cooperative play, online gaming, role-playing game, PC gaming

    #Final #Baldurs #Gate #update #crossplay #stress #testing

  • Baldur’s Gate 2 II Shadows of Amn Collector’s Edition PC Game 2000 Baldurs



    Baldur’s Gate 2 II Shadows of Amn Collector’s Edition PC Game 2000 Baldurs

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    “Unleash the Ultimate Adventure: Baldur’s Gate II Shadows of Amn Collector’s Edition PC Game 2000”

    Get ready to dive into the epic world of Baldur’s Gate II Shadows of Amn with the Collector’s Edition PC Game from 2000. This legendary RPG game offers hours of thrilling gameplay, intricate storylines, and unforgettable characters.

    With enhanced graphics and gameplay features, this Collector’s Edition is a must-have for any Baldur’s Gate fan. Immerse yourself in the rich lore of the Forgotten Realms as you embark on a quest to uncover the mysteries of Amn and defeat the powerful enemies that stand in your way.

    Experience the magic of Baldur’s Gate II Shadows of Amn like never before with this special edition, complete with exclusive bonus content and collectibles. Don’t miss out on the chance to own a piece of gaming history – get your hands on the Collector’s Edition PC Game today!
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  • As some analysts “hope” GTA 6 will normalize $100 games, one Baldur’s Gate 3 dev points out that “prices haven’t risen with inflation”


    When I was a kid, video games cost $40. Now they’re $70, and analysts are discussing a potential $100 price tag for Grand Theft Auto 6. One Baldur’s Gate 3 dev says companies hoping for this are “saying the quiet part out loud.”

    GTA 6 is one of the most-anticipated games in history. We’re all going to buy it, that much is certain, the only question that remains is how much we’ll pay for it. The $70 standard for triple-A games came into effect a few years ago, but in 2024, some of the best-selling games were around $40. Helldivers 2 and Palworld both did phenomenally well at those lower prices, but now analysts are wondering if GTA 6 will actually push video games to be even more expensive.





    The gaming industry is no stranger to controversy when it comes to pricing, and the debate over the standard cost of video games has been ongoing for years. Recently, some analysts have been speculating that the highly anticipated release of GTA 6 could potentially set a new standard for game pricing, with some suggesting that $100 games could become the new norm.

    However, one developer from Baldur’s Gate 3, the highly acclaimed RPG game, has pointed out that game prices have not kept up with inflation over the years. In a recent interview, the developer highlighted the fact that the cost of developing and producing games has increased significantly, while game prices have remained relatively stagnant.

    With the rising costs of game development and production, many developers are finding it increasingly challenging to turn a profit on their games. This has led to the rise of microtransactions, season passes, and other monetization strategies to offset the costs of game development.

    As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the debate over game pricing unfolds. Will $100 games become the new norm, or will developers find alternative ways to monetize their games? Only time will tell.

    Tags:

    • GTA 6
    • $100 games
    • Baldur’s Gate 3
    • Analysts
    • Inflation
    • Video game prices
    • Gaming industry
    • Price normalization
    • AAA games
    • Game development trends

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  • ‘You’re not supposed to say this out loud!’: Baldur’s Gate 3 dev reacts to analyst who says some game makers ‘hope’ Grand Theft Auto 6 will cost up to $100 at launch


    Larian head of publishing Michael Douse warned that game companies are saying the quiet part out loud after industry analyst Michael Ball wrote that some of them are hoping Grand Theft Auto 6 will launch with a price of at least $80, and possibly as high as $100.

    The remark came in Ball’s “State of Videogaming in 2025” report, which lists Grand Theft Auto 6 as one of several “potential new ‘growth engines’,” alongside things like user-generated content, the release of the Switch 2, and the growth of “non-core” markets.



    In a recent interview with a gaming analyst, it was revealed that some game developers are hoping that Grand Theft Auto 6 will cost up to $100 at launch. This shocking revelation has sparked controversy within the gaming community, with many fans expressing their outrage at the idea of such a high price tag for a single game.

    One developer who was quick to respond to this news was the team behind Baldur’s Gate 3. In a statement released on social media, they expressed their disbelief at the analyst’s comments, stating, “You’re not supposed to say this out loud! The idea of charging players $100 for a game is ridiculous and goes against everything we believe in as game developers. We strive to create immersive and engaging experiences for our players, not price them out of enjoying our games.”

    The backlash against the idea of a $100 price tag for Grand Theft Auto 6 has been swift and fierce, with many calling on game developers to prioritize player enjoyment over profits. It remains to be seen whether Rockstar Games, the developer behind the Grand Theft Auto series, will heed this outcry and reconsider their pricing strategy for their highly anticipated upcoming title.

    In the meantime, Baldur’s Gate 3 fans can rest assured that the developers behind their favorite game have their best interests at heart and will continue to provide quality gaming experiences at an affordable price.

    Tags:

    Baldur’s Gate 3, Grand Theft Auto 6, game developers, analyst, pricing strategy, video game industry, launch prices, gaming news, Baldur’s Gate 3 developer response

    #Youre #supposed #loud #Baldurs #Gate #dev #reacts #analyst #game #makers #hope #Grand #Theft #Auto #cost #launch

  • NEW – Baldur’s Gate II 2 Shadows of Amn Collector’s Edition PC – FACTORY SEALED



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    Immerse yourself in the rich and expansive world of Baldur’s Gate II, where you’ll embark on an epic journey filled with adventure, intrigue, and unforgettable characters. With enhanced graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and all-new content, this collector’s edition is a must-have for any fan of the series.

    Don’t miss out on this limited edition release – order your copy of Baldur’s Gate II 2 Shadows of Amn Collector’s Edition for PC today and experience the magic of one of the greatest RPGs of all time!
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  • Baldur’s Gate 4 Needs To Fix This One Problem With Party Members

    Baldur’s Gate 4 Needs To Fix This One Problem With Party Members


    If and when Baldur’s Gate 3 finally receives a sequel, there’s going to be one big issue looming over the game’s party members. After launching in 2023 to monumental success, the cast of BG3 have quickly cemented themselves as some of the most beloved characters of the modern era. Whether fans fell in love with the dry wit of Astarion or the puppy dog-like loveability of Karlach, each one of the game’s companions has their own claim to fame.

    But while each of the ten companions in BG3 is a fantastic character when standing on their own, seeing them all lined up as a group highlights one very notable issue: there’s a distinct lack of variety when it comes to their species. A character’s species (previously referred to as “race” prior to the Dungeons & Dragons 2024 rules update) is one of the main components that determines their abilities, alongside class. And while D&D offers a large variety of species for players to choose from, the party in Baldur’s Gate 3 doesn’t represent that same variety.

    Baldur’s Gate 3’s Companions Lack Species Diversity

    Too Many Humans And Elves

    Baldur's Gate 3 keyart with companions and a blue background.
    Custom Image by Katarina Cimbaljevic

    There are ten companions for players to meet, recruit, and potentially woo in Baldur’s Gate 3; of those ten, only two —Lae’zel the githyanki and Karlach the tiefling —are not some variety of elf, human, or a combination of the two. There is still some variety to be had even among those of the same species: Minthara, for example, is a drow, an elf native to the subterranean Underdark, while Astarion is a vampire in addition to being a high elf. But that doesn’t change the fact that eight out of ten companions in the game belong to one of three main species.

    Companion

    Species

    Astarion

    High Elf

    Gale

    Human

    Lae’zel

    Githyanki

    Shadowheart

    High Half-elf

    Wyll

    Human

    Karlach

    Tiefling

    Halsin

    Wood Elf

    Minthara

    Drow (dark elf)

    Jaheira

    High Half-elf

    Minsc

    Human

    Baldur’s Gate 3 has eleven races players can choose from when making their own character: human, elf, drow, half-elf, dwarf, halfling, gnome, half-orc, tiefling, dragonborn, and githyanki. This ends up leaving the majority of species that are available completely unrepresented in BG3‘s main lineup, even if the player does opt for one of the other options for their own character. Despite being a mainstay in traditional D&D and the fantasy stories that inspired it, there are no dwarves or halflings to travel alongside the player on their adventures.

    Why BG3’s Party Doesn’t Have The Variety It Should

    Technical Limitations May Have Held Larian Back

    A Dark Urge Origin character in front of shadow druids in Emerald Grove in BG3.
    Custom image by Ben Brosofsky

    It’s unlikely that Larian Studios simply overlooked or ignored the rich variety of species available in D&D when it was designing the cast of Baldur’s Gate 3. Chances are that it was a matter of technical viability and the potential difficulties of translating motion-captured performances to characters with less humanoid proportions. There are thousands of lines of dialogue in BG3 for the companions alone, and translating an actor’s performance to the reptilian features of a dragonborn, for example, may have seemed daunting.

    Jaheira and Minsc in front of the city of Baldur's Gate as seen in Baldur's Gate 3

    Related


    There’s One Big Reason To Swap Out Your Favorite Baldur’s Gate 3 Companions In Act 3

    It’s tempting to keep your favorite companions by your side until the end of Baldur’s Gate 3, but here’s why you should consider switching them out.

    But that doesn’t mean the task would be impossible, and Larian itself even proved it with the rich variety of NPCs found throughout the world of BG3. Enemies, merchants, quest-givers, and even random townsfolk come in all shapes and sizes and represent the full breadth of species available in the game. Seeing the full diversity of Faerûn on display like that makes the homogeneity of the main protagonists even more glaring by comparison.

    Baldur’s Gate 3 does also include the option to recruit hirelings into the player’s party who represent more species than the main companions do, but they lack the full personalities and stories that companions offer.

    It’s hard not to imagine some of those NPCs easily slotting into the party to fill in some of the gaps, especially with the companions also lacking coverage of the game’s available classes (no monk, no bard, but two druids). The deep gnome Barcus Wroot spends enough time hanging around in camp that he feels like a party member anyway, and would be a perfect fit if BG3 added the Artificer class from D&D. Missed opportunities like that aren’t game-breakers, but they do sting a little bit.

    Ignoring Other Species Leaves Out One Of The Best Parts Of D&D

    Experimenting With Character Combinations Is Part Of The Fun

    Karlach grinning in Baldur's Gate 3 in the Lower City.

    Building a character is one of the most fun parts of playing Dungeons & Dragons, and that’s also true for Baldur’s Gate 3, as evidenced by the literal years players have spent in the character creator alone (via Larian Studios on X). With eleven species and twelve classes available, plus the various subraces and subclasses to choose from, there are hundreds of possible combinations with which to craft a character before you even get into assigning ability scores or picking spells.

    By making a party that leans so heavily into humans and elves, BG3 robs players of the ability to adventure with most of those combinations when customizing their party lineup. Astarion’s class can be changed from rogue to barbarian, but you can never make him anything but a high elf. It leaves players feeling locked in, especially when every companion of high elf ancestry starts with the same Fire Bolt cantrip.

    Laughing Karlach and Withers Baldur's Gate 3

    Related


    10 Funniest Ways To Respec Your Companions In Baldur’s Gate 3

    Baldur’s Gate 3 allows players to change the classes and stats of any of their companions, and there are some funny ways to respec the characters.

    The lack of species diversity in the party doesn’t just hurt the game’s mechanics, but it also limits the story’s potential. Lae’zel’s personal journey is heavily influenced by her githyanki heritage and upbringing; by omitting species like dwarves and half-orcs, BG3 is ignoring so many stories that could only be told by those characters. Baldur’s Gate 3 has a fantastic narrative full of depth and player choice, but it’s a story that doesn’t fully represent the world in which it takes place.

    Baldur’s Gate 4 Will Have More Options Than Ever

    New D&D Rules Will Form The Basis Of A Future Sequel

    The fifth edition of Dungeons & Dragons was the most successful in the game’s lifespan, but after enjoying a lengthy ten-year run it was updated with the release of the revised Player’s Handbook and Dungeon Master’s Guide in 2024. While Baldur’s Gate 3 was based on the original rules of fifth edition, a future sequel will have to take the new rules into account.

    D&D How DMs Can Avoid The Biggest RPG Mistakes In Their Own Campaigns - Cover art from the 1e AD&D Dungeoneer's Survival Guide

    Related


    D&D: How DMs Can Avoid The Biggest RPG Mistakes In Their Own Campaigns

    There is a place for filler sessions in some Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, but a low-stakes session at the wrong time can eradicate dramatic momentum.

    With the release of the new book came updated character creation rules with several new species not found in the 2014 handbook, including goliaths, orcs, and aasimars. Aside from the addition of githyanki, BG3 stuck pretty close to what was in the Player’s Handbook, so a hypothetical Baldur’s Gate 4 would presumably do the same with the new rules in place. That means more options for players to build characters with, but also an increased need to reflect that diversity in the game’s playable characters.

    When people get together to play D&D, their party of adventurers will be as wild and varied as the personalities of the players at the table, but BG3 doesn’t offer the same option. D&D is changing, and the games that it inspires need to change with it. Baldur’s Gate 3 is an amazing game, but this is one area where there’s room for improvement in the sequel.

    Source: Larian Studios/X

    mixcollage-08-dec-2024-02-20-pm-5221.jpg

    Platform(s)

    PC
    , macOS
    , PS5
    , Xbox Series X

    Released

    August 3, 2023

    Developer(s)

    Larian Studios



    Baldur’s Gate 4 is a highly anticipated game for fans of the popular RPG series. However, there is one glaring issue that needs to be addressed in the upcoming installment – the lack of depth and development in party members.

    In previous games, party members often felt like mere placeholders, with little to no backstory or personality. This made it difficult for players to form emotional connections with their companions, ultimately leading to a lackluster gaming experience.

    To truly immerse players in the world of Baldur’s Gate, the developers need to focus on creating rich, dynamic characters that players can truly care about. Each party member should have a unique backstory, motivations, and personality traits that make them feel like real individuals.

    Additionally, there should be opportunities for players to deepen their relationships with party members through meaningful interactions and quests. This could include dialogue options that allow players to learn more about their companions, as well as choices that impact the dynamics within the party.

    By addressing this one problem with party members, Baldur’s Gate 4 has the potential to deliver a truly unforgettable gaming experience that resonates with fans for years to come.

    Tags:

    Baldur’s Gate 4, party members, RPG, role-playing game, video game, character development, companions, player interaction, storytelling, game mechanics, questing, fantasy, game design, party dynamics, party management, character relationships, character customization, party balance, NPC interactions.

    #Baldurs #Gate #Fix #Problem #Party #Members

  • Baldur’s Gate 3 Players Realise Disguise Spell Is Underrated

    Baldur’s Gate 3 Players Realise Disguise Spell Is Underrated


    Baldur’s Gate 3 is one of the most replayable games ever made. Not only is it impossible to see all the content in playthrough, but the game completely changes based on your alignment and decisions. Then, of course, there’s the Dark Urge playthrough and playing as an origin character as well. Fans are always finding new things and are looking for more reasons to go back to the game.

    Santa Claus in Baldurs Gate 3

    Related


    I’m Doing My Next Baldur’s Gate 3 Run As Santa Claus

    To get in the holiday spirit, I made jolly ol’ Saint Nick. It was a lot harder than I thought it would be…

    If you’ve somehow managed to play through all known paths and seen just about everything the game has to offer, you may be on the lookout for another reason to get back to Baldur’s Gate 3. It seems there is a unique way to play the game, that lets you experience content you otherwise wouldn’t have access to. It comes in the form of the Disguise Self spell.

    A Master Of Disguise

    Disguise Self, as the name suggests, lets you disguise yourself as another character or race of your choosing. It’s especially helpful for when you want to keep a low profile while walking around the bustling city. However, it seems that if you master the spell and use it at the right moments, it can change the way you play entirely.

    Baldur's Gate 3 Disguise Self Party

    As noted by scuzzlebuttstudios‘ Reddit post on the Baldur’s Gate 3 subreddit, Disguise self is very underrated. “You get to experience so many race-specific interactions on one character. Just in act 1, I got to experience goblin camp and grymforge as a drow, creche as a githyanki,” they said.

    “It’s such an amazing flavor spell, and coupled with my bard, I can perfectly perform and pass checks too, giving me so much more story and content than I’ve ever experienced on one character,” continued the post. “Oh, and halfling disguise to fit in burrows.”

    Someone in the comments section also noted that the spell will allow you to talk to the corpse of someone you just killed as well.

    “That’s not only a lot of fun, but a quick safety leveling in the early game. You get some experience from exploring map, and [the] Drow look really helps for conversation with goblins: camp, windmill etc. (but not enter Waukeen’s Rest as a drow and Mykonid Colony as a duergar,” noted another comment. “Also Disguise Self helps to steal gold from vendors and really helps to get Moonlatern in Act 2.”

    So, if you’re looking for another way to replay Baldur’s Gate 3 this holiday season, why not try the Disguise Run?

    mixcollage-08-dec-2024-02-20-pm-5221.jpg

    Baldur’s Gate 3 is the long-awaited next chapter in the Dungeons & Dragons-based series of RPGs. Developed by Divinity creator Larian Studios, it puts you in the middle of a mind flayer invasion of Faerûn, over a century after the events of its predecessor.



    Baldur’s Gate 3 Players Realise Disguise Spell Is Underrated

    In the world of Baldur’s Gate 3, players have been quick to discover the power of the Disguise Self spell. This simple yet effective spell allows players to change their appearance, making them appear as someone or something else entirely.

    While some may initially overlook the Disguise Self spell in favor of more offensive or defensive spells, players have come to realize just how useful this spell can be in a variety of situations. Whether it’s sneaking past enemies, tricking NPCs, or blending in with a crowd, the Disguise Self spell offers a level of versatility that many players may not have initially considered.

    As players continue to experiment with different strategies and approaches in Baldur’s Gate 3, the Disguise Self spell has emerged as a valuable tool that can help them navigate the challenges of the game in creative and unexpected ways. So next time you’re planning your next move in Baldur’s Gate 3, don’t forget to give the Disguise Self spell a try – you may just be surprised at how effective it can be.

    Tags:

    Baldur’s Gate 3, Disguise Spell, Underrated, RPG, Video Game, Baldur’s Gate, Larian Studios, D&D, Role-playing Game, Strategy, Gaming Community, PC Gaming, Spellcasting

    #Baldurs #Gate #Players #Realise #Disguise #Spell #Underrated

  • Baldur’s Gate 3 Deluxe Edition Xbox Series X Collector’s Physical USA Sealed

    Baldur’s Gate 3 Deluxe Edition Xbox Series X Collector’s Physical USA Sealed



    Baldur’s Gate 3 Deluxe Edition Xbox Series X Collector’s Physical USA Sealed

    Price : 108.90

    Ends on : N/A

    View on eBay
    Are you a fan of Baldur’s Gate? Do you own an Xbox Series X console? If so, then you’re in luck because the Deluxe Edition of Baldur’s Gate 3 for Xbox Series X is now available in a collector’s physical edition in the USA!

    This Deluxe Edition includes exclusive content, such as additional in-game items, a digital soundtrack, and a map of the game world. And best of all, it comes in a sealed collector’s box, making it a must-have for any Baldur’s Gate enthusiast.

    Don’t miss out on this limited edition release – order your Baldur’s Gate 3 Deluxe Edition Xbox Series X Collector’s Physical USA Sealed today and embark on an epic adventure in the world of Faerûn!
    #Baldurs #Gate #Deluxe #Edition #Xbox #Series #Collectors #Physical #USA #Sealed

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