It’s a good time to be a Dungeons & Dragons fan. Not only has there been a release of a special Stranger Things tabletop set based on the game in the show, but also Skybound and Beamdog are re-releasing classic D&D games on console. Possibly the biggest and best news of all is that Larian Studios is developing Baldur’s Gate III. Larian Studios is best-known as the developer of Divinity Original Sin
Baldur’s Gate III is being developed in collaboration with Wizards of the Coast and is based on current D&D rules, mechanics and spells. This new game is the official next entry in the franchise and is designed to deliver “unparalleled player freedom.”
Baldur’s Gate 3
Baldur’s Gate 3 is the biggest project ever undertaken by Larian Studios and Creative Director Swen Vincke says;
Baldur’s Gate means so much to so many people. It’s a great responsibility but I think we’re ready for it. We’re all about creating reactive, systemic worlds that respect player agency and having a chance to apply our team’s skillset in a universe as rich as Dungeons & Dragons is a lot of fun.
We’re working very closely with Wizards to bring an unprecedented level of immersion to the realm of Faerun and I can’t wait to show the world what our team cooked up.
Larian has introduced the Larian Gazette which replaces the team’s Kickstarter updates. The Larian Gazette will provide regular updates and insights into the development of Baldur’s Gate 3.
Fans can join the Larian Gazette by heading to the Baldur’s Gate 3 website and clicking the subscribe button. Larian has also released the very first update video.
Very little is known about the game at this stage but it has been confirmed that it will be playable both in multiplayer and single player modes. Playing with friends will offer a more true to life D&D experience while playing solo will still be rewarding and enjoyable.
The teaser trailer below shows “a return of a malevolent presence to Baldur’s Gate, intent on devouring it from the inside out, corrupting everything that remains in the Forgotten Realms.”
Chris Cocks, President of Wizards of the Coast said of the partnership;
Partnering with Larian, a studio that combines a remarkable history of critically-acclaimed titles with a genuine passion for one of the most iconic locations in Dungeons & Dragons has been a terrific experience. We believe fans of the Baldur’s Gate saga – and even those new to the series – will be thrilled to step into this epic story.
Baldur’s Gate 3 will be available for PC and Google Stadia.