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| A screengrab depicting the title's characters engaged in combat |
Remember the game that defined computer role-playing for a generation? Before the cinematic depth of Mass Effect or the turn-based triumphs of Baldur’s Gate 3, there was the original. Developed and published by BioWare in 1998, Baldur’s Gate didn't just tell a story—it forged a legacy. Set in the beloved Forgotten Realms of Dungeons & Dragons, this classic CRPG used a tailored version of the 2nd Edition rules and the groundbreaking Infinity Engine to create a world that felt truly alive, setting the stage for classics like Planescape: Torment and Icewind Dale.
A Sword Coast Saga Born from Mystery
You begin as a custom hero, forced from your home under shadowy circumstances. Drawn into a conspiracy that threatens to plunge the entire Sword Coast into war, you’re no chosen one—you’re a survivor. The game’s genius lies in its party-based, top-down isometric journey. You’ll recruit a memorable band of misfits, each with their own agendas and banter, as you explore treacherous wilderness, bustling cities, and dank dungeons. The gameplay brilliantly translates the feel of a tabletop D&D session to the digital realm, with quests, dialogue choices, and tactical combat shaping your unique narrative.
More Than Nostalgia: A Modernized Classic
While Larian's 2023 masterpiece brought turn-based combat to the forefront, the original Baldur’s Gate pioneered “Real-Time-with-Pause” tactics, allowing you to strategize on the fly. And thanks to the Enhanced Edition, this isn't just a trip down memory lane. It’s a meticulously upgraded experience with over 400 improvements, including native support for modern widescreen displays on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
The content package is immense. Beyond the epic 75+ hour main campaign and the Tales of the Sword Coast expansion, you get the challenging Black Pits arena. New story mode options let you focus on exploration and narrative over combat difficulty. With 11 core classes, dozens of subclasses, and three new recruitable characters added in the Enhanced Edition, your choices have never mattered more.
For those looking to start their adventure, the classic is readily available. You can find Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition on Steam at a historic discount, offering unparalleled value.
From Critical Darling to Genre-Defining Series
Upon release, Baldur’s Gate was met with critical acclaim, credited with single-handedly revitalizing the RPG genre. It spawned a sequel, expansions, and a passionate fanbase that kept the flame alive for decades—a passion that culminated in the universe-exploding success of Baldur’s Gate 3.
That 2023 title, a turn-based phenomenon, has drawn millions of new fans to the lore and world that began here. With a “Very Positive” rating from over 15,000 Steam reviews, the original’s standing is stronger than ever. And now, for less than the price of a coffee, you can own the foundational chapter.
The Ultimate RPG History Lesson is on Sale
With Baldur’s Gate 4 likely years away, there’s never been a better time to explore where it all began. For less than $4, you’re not just buying a game; you’re investing in a piece of interactive history. See the roots of companion relationships, moral ambiguity, and epic fantasy storytelling that would define BioWare and inspire Larian. Grab the Enhanced Edition, gather your party, and venture forth. The road to Baldur’s Gate—and to understanding the full depth of this incredible universe—starts with a single, timeless step.