So, you’ve heard all the hype about Baldur’s Gate 3, and you’re itching to give it a shot, right? But wait, you haven’t played the first two games. You might be thinking, “Is it cool to skip ahead?” or “Will I miss out on anything?” Don’t worry, I’ve been there, and I’m here to help you navigate this. Based on my countless hours adventuring in the Baldur’s Gate series, I can offer you some firsthand insight. So can you play Baldur’s Gate 3 without playing 1 and 2?
Do I need to play the first two Baldur’s Gate games to enjoy the third?
Do you need to play Baldur’s 1 and 2 to enjoy 3? Well, it’s a bit of a “yes and no.” First, let’s tackle the “no.” Baldur’s Gate 3 is its own entity—standalone and packed with fresh lore and characters. It’s set centuries after the first two games, so you can totally jump right in and not feel like you’ve missed the boat.
But, and here’s the “yes,” if you’re anything like me, you’ll enjoy the callbacks and references to the previous games that can easily be missed and ignored. Not to mention, the first two games are incredible RPG experiences in their own right. So if you fall in love with Baldur’s Gate 3, you’ll likely enjoy what started it all.
So, should you play the first two before the third? Honestly, that’s your call. If you ask me? I’d say give them a go. You won’t regret diving deep into these role-playing classics, but I advise you to learn where the quick save button is!
Related: Baldur’s Gate 3 – How many companions?
When is Baldur’s Gate 3 set?
Baldur’s Gate 3 takes us on a journey to 1492 DR, a year that’s famous, or should I say infamous, in the Forgotten Realms. Why so? Well, it’s the year the catastrophic Spellplague happened, leaving nothing quite the same afterward.
But that’s not all. Baldur’s Gate 3 isn’t just a trip through time; it’s also a deep dive—literally—into the Underdark. Close your eyes and imagine an enormous subterranean world packed to the brim with things that want to eat you, squash you, or possibly both.
What are the key differences between Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2, and 3?
So, you’re thinking, “How different could Baldur’s Gate 3 really be from its predecessors?” I hear you. Well, my friend, it’s like stepping out of an old, beloved car and into a spaceship. Sure, they both get you places, but the ride is a totally different experience.
First off, we’ve got the combat. Baldur’s Gate 3 decided to slow things down a bit and roll with a turn-based system, which is quite the shift from the real-time-with-pause mechanic of the first two games. This change invites a whole new level of strategy and tactics into your battles. You can think of it as a chess match, but with fireballs and goblins.
Next up, the setting. You remember the Underdark I was talking about? That’s where Baldur’s Gate 3 takes place. Trust me, compared to the landscapes of the first two games, the Underdark means serious business. You’ll need more than a torch to navigate the twists and turns of this vast underground world.
And finally, let’s talk character creation. In Baldur’s Gate 3, customization is incredible. A plethora of races, classes, and some seriously detailed customization options for your character’s appearance. Say goodbye to those generic faces and hello to a hero (or villain, I’m not judging) who’s truly your own.
So, there you have it. While Baldur’s Gate 3 carries the banner of its predecessors, it’s not afraid to forge its own path. It’s a more refined, polished, and modern take on the series we all know and love.
Related: Baldur’s Gate 3 – What is Advantage & Disadvantage, Explained
Are Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2 still worth playing today?
Oh, a million times, yes! I mean, sure, they don’t have the modern-day feel, but they’ve got that classic RPG charm in spades.
First, the difficulty will repeatedly kick you even though you’re down. Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2 don’t play around – this was back in the day when a five-hour long game could last you 20+ because of how hard it was. Their combat system demands strategy and forethought. Heck, there were times I thought I was playing 4D chess with dragons, but I was really fighting wolves. They are also ruthlessly real with character mortality. No “get out of jail free” cards here; if a character bites the dust, they’re gone. It’s this ruthless reality that gives these games an intense, edge-of-your-seat quality. Just remember the golden rule: quick save is your best friend.
Then, there’s the storyline. Oh boy, the storylines in these games are something else. They’re rich, well-written, and deeply engaging. The characters are not just one-dimensional sprites; they have personality, backstory, and emotional depth. And the plot? It’s the kind of epic fantasy tale that sucks you in and keeps you playing way past your bedtime.
Next, the gameplay. If you’re a fan of classic role-playing, these games will feel like coming home. The exploration, the character interaction, the puzzle-solving – it’s all here! Along with death. Lots and lots of death.
And lastly, the graphics. Playing them today may be difficult, but if you can look past the old graphical charm, the detailed and atmospheric environments will still manage to pull you into the world of Baldur’s Gate.
So are they worth playing? They are absolutely worth revisiting or diving into for the first time. They’re the kind of classic games that age like fine wine, and believe me, they still pack a punch more than you know. After playing the first two games, I am excited to finally get to play Act 2 and 3 of Baldur’s Gate 3!
Summary
- Sure, you can totally dive into Baldur’s Gate 3 without playing the first two. No worries!
- Baldur’s Gate 3 is a whole new ball game – a new era, new characters, new vibes.
- But hey, if you play the first two games, you’ll catch some cool references in the third. Nice Easter eggs, right?
- Some changes to note: Baldur’s Gate 3 is turn-based now, not real-time like the old ones. Plus, you’re exploring the scary depths of the Underdark.
- Also, get excited for a fancy new character creation system – more races, more classes, more customization.
- As for Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2, they’re definitely still worth a playthrough. Classic RPG feel, for sure.
- Yeah, they’re tough. Like, seriously tough sometimes. But the stories and characters? Top-notch.
- To sum it up, all three games are a blast for RPG fans, whether you’re new to the series or a Baldur’s Gate veteran.