The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Baldur's Gate 3: Every Unwritten Rule Demystified!

Unwritten rules often emerge in both RPGs and online games, creating significant similarities between the two. For instance, in the Dragon Age games, it is an unwritten rule to never trust a mage, while spamming moves in games like Mortal Kombat is strongly disapproved. Despite not yet being available on PS5, Baldur's Gate 3, an extensive RPG with online cooperative features, already has its own unwritten rules.

Baldur's Gate 3 has garnered considerable acclaim and has been touted as a potential Game of the Year by many fans. Although reviews for the game are still ongoing, it has already solidified its position as one of the top PC and RPG titles of the year. This is evident in its impressive Metacritic score of 97, based on 21 reviews at the time of writing. As a point of comparison, it surpasses Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom by one point, albeit with fewer reviews (145 for Zelda). It is evident that gaming enthusiasts have successfully weathered several massive games that have had a profound impact on the industry, resulting in the establishment of certain etiquette for Baldur's Gate 3.

Baldur's Gate 3 Stats: Community Engagement Rules

Stat/Rule

368 players have beaten the game - Baldur's Gate 3 players should take their time and take it all in.

More than 93% of players opt for creating a personalized character, as it is believed to be the ultimate way to fully immerse oneself in the world of Baldur's Gate 3. It is uncertain whether this statistic considers the inclusion of Baldur's Gate 3's Dark Urge character.

A notable 10% of players dedicate an entire hour to perfecting their character during the creation process, resulting in an astounding combined total of 88 years spent in this endeavor. This highlights the importance of meticulously crafting the ideal character in BG3.

815,000 NPCs were shoved into chasms - Shoving is fun in BG3.

Most players choose the good path in BG3 - An Unwritten Rule for all RPGs is how the good path is the best path.

Scratch and the Owlbear are the best pets.

Baldur's Gate 3 Unwritten Co-Op Rules

In regards to co-op play in Baldur's Gate 3, there are certain unspoken guidelines and etiquette to adhere to. For a smoother combat experience, it is recommended that every player takes control of some of BG3's companions, as this increases the pace of battles.

If players decide to embark on the game together, then all rules are off. Players may or may not miss out on certain conversations, but that's part of the game's essence. It's perfectly acceptable to eavesdrop (except for in Baldur's Gate 3's romance scenes – those should remain in private dialogue for obvious reasons). On the flip side, if someone is joining another player's game but has already completed it or progressed further, they should allow the host to fully immerse themselves in the experience. Additionally, providing them with a formidable customized character to utilize later on is a thoughtful gesture.

Baldur's Gate 3: A Word on Min-Maxing and Save-Scumming

When it comes to embracing RPG and minmaxing classes in the greater Baldur's Gate 3 community, there is a clear divide on whether or not save scumming should be employed. Save Scumming involves utilizing saved games and loading them to achieve the best possible outcomes, disregarding the randomness of dice rolls. While some individuals are perfectly fine with this practice, others passionately despise save scumming. Although there are no strict unwritten rules regarding this matter, it is important to simply rejoice in the fact that everyone can enjoy Baldur's Gate 3 in their own unique way.

Baldur's Gate 3: Unwritten Rules for Companions

In a game like BG3, it is impossible for all players to share the same fate for a companion. Karlach, Wyll, Minthara, and others have such complex storylines with multiple endings that determining the "best" companion is highly subjective. Nevertheless, there are three underlying principles from the realm of RPGs that apply here.

1 - The companion whom a player is romancing should consistently remain in the party, unless specific characters are necessary for personal quests. For instance, if players are pursuing a romance with Karlach in Baldur's Gate 3, she should generally be included in the party.

2 - Ensure all dialogue is fully explored - regardless of whether a character holds affection or animosity towards the player, it is crucial to fully immerse oneself in their dialogue. Neglecting to engage with a companion's thoughts while they still have something to share is seen as a grave error in BG3.

3 - Form a well-rounded party. While it may not always be straightforward, players should strive to include characters who excel in DPS, damage absorption, extensive use of magic, stealth abilities (such as lockpicking), and healing. Though certain characters like Shadowheart, Jaheira, or Minthara can fulfill multiple roles, maintaining a balanced combination of these elements is pivotal.

Baldur's Gate 3's Most Important Unwritten Rule is Simple

There are various unwritten rules that fans interact with, and as players become more experienced, additional rules may emerge. However, one crucial unwritten rule stands out among all others in Baldur's Gate 3. And it's quite straightforward. Regardless of how one plays, the rules they defy, or the way they engage with the game's system, Baldur's Gate 3 belongs to the player. It becomes their unique story, shaped by their desires. There are no predetermined choices, strict instructions, or limitations.

Baldur's Gate 3 offers unparalleled freedom to the player, and this rule safeguards it above all: whether someone embraces the Illithid Powers or resists them, their personal story unfolds. It's a remarkable aspect where every in-game narrative holds equal value, and no two players or playthroughs will ever be the same, especially considering the game's 17,000 potential endings.

Baldur's Gate 3 is available now on PC, with a PS5 version releasing on September 6.