As we embrace the arrival of summer, it’s time to delve into the details of the most anticipated role-playing game of the year — Baldur’s Gate 3. Crafted by the creators of the esteemed Divinity series, Larian Studios, the game promises to be an exceptional gaming experience. Having been accessible in its early access version on Steam since 2020, the game’s official launch is now fast approaching. Let’s explore Baldur’s Gate 3 release date, pre-order information and other details.
The seminal Baldur’s Gate was developed by BioWare, a studio with an illustrious history of producing top-tier role-playing games, in 1998. Hot on its heels, the second instalment was released in 2000. Both games set a new benchmark for the genre, and it’s hard to believe that a staggering 23 years have passed before the advent of the third game. However, the long-anticipated day is finally upon us.
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When Is Baldur’s Gate 3 Release Date?
Baldur’s Gate 3 is slated for release on PC and PlayStation 5 on August 31, 2023. After three years of early access availability on Steam, the game will, at last, be fully accessible to players. We will no longer be confined to the first act and will be able to traverse through the complete story.
There might be a touch of disappointment among the Xbox community as the game will not be released for Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One. Yet, it might be feasible to stream the PC version via Xbox Cloud Gaming — we will have to wait for the game’s release for concrete details.
With the release date of Starfield not too far off, your exploration of the Forgotten Realms may be somewhat frantic. Alternatively, like us, you might have to drop your real-world commitments to fully engage with these two monumental games simultaneously.
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How to Pre-Order Baldur’s Gate 3?
There are multiple ways through which you can pre-order Baldur’s Gate 3, with different editions available for both PC and PlayStation 5. Pre-ordering ensures that you’re ready for the launch on August 31, 2023.
The editions available for pre-order include the Standard Edition, Digital Deluxe Edition, and the Collector’s Edition. Here, we provide a brief rundown of the details pertaining to each edition:
- Standard Edition — PC and PS5 — $70
- Digital Deluxe Edition — Only on PS5 (For now) — $80
- Collector’s Edition — PC and PS5 — $270
Owners of the Digital Deluxe Edition and the Collector’s Edition will enjoy the privilege of 72-hour early access. It’s important to note that neither edition comes with a physical game disc – instead, the game will be downloadable upon activation of the digital code provided, which can be used on your preferred platform.
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Baldur’s Gate 3 Collector’s Edition
At first glance, $270 may seem expensive for a Collector’s Edition. But Baldur’s Gate 3 will have very rich content in this sense. You will get full value for your money with both physical and digital content.
Here are all items of Baldur’s Gate 3 Collector’s Edition:
- Baldur’s Gate 3 Digital Game Code (Base Game)
- Oversized Metal D20 Dice
- Cloth Map of Faerûn
- Custom Sticker Map (32 Stickers)
- Mind Flayer vs. Drow Battle Diorama (25cm)
- Hardcover Art Book (160-Page)
- DnD-Inspired Origin Character Sheets
- Metal Tadpole Keyring
- Magic: The Gathering Booster Pack
- Certificate of Authenticity
- All Within a Mind-Flayer-Inspired Collector’s Box
All of the Digital Deluxe Edition DLC content is also included with the Collector’s Edition, which gives you 72-hour early access, a unique dice skin, a collection of Divinity-inspired items, and the Adventurer’s Pouch, along with the digital downloadable OST, Artbook and Character Sheets. In addition, Collector’s Edition owners will receive an exclusive in-game skin based on the physical Metal D20.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Baldur’s Gate 3 Have All Classes?
As Baldur’s Gate 3 follow the D&D 5E ruleset, it offers an extensive range of classes from which you can select. The game comprises the following classes, listed alphabetically: Barbarian, Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, Paladin, Ranger, Rogue, Sorcerer, Warlock, and Wizard. You’re free to select any of these classes based on your preferred play style and build.
What Races Are in Baldur’s Gate 3?
When crafting your character (As well as for in-game NPCs) in Baldur’s Gate 3, there are nine races to choose from. As these races are present in D&D 5E, they align well with the game’s universe. The complete list includes Drow, Dwarf, Elf, Half-Elf, Githyanki, Gnome, Halfling, Human, and Tiefling. Throughout your journey within the Forgotten Realms, you’ll encounter a multitude of characters hailing from these races.
Is Baldur’s Gate 3 a Sequel?
Yes, Baldur’s Gate 3 will carry forward the narrative of the initial two games. More specifically, it will unveil events transpiring 125 years post Baldur’s Gate 2. As per usual, the storyline set in 1494 DR unravels an expansive universe. Teeming with heroes, armies, towns, kings, spells, dragons, and so much more, BG3 certainly doesn’t disappoint.
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