Unlocking the Epic Potential: Why Baldur's Gate 3 Remake is a Game-Changer for CRPG Enthusiasts

Highlights

Baldur's Gate 3 has exceeded expectations and is considered a groundbreaking success in the CRPG genre, modernizing the Forgotten Realms setting.

The revival of the once inactive Baldur's Gate series has enchanted fans who have eagerly awaited a new installment for many years.

Baldur's Gate 3 takes inspiration from Planescape: Torment, an early adaptation of the Dungeons and Dragons universe, and there is potential for a remake or a continuation of this beloved game in a similar fashion.

Baldur's Gate 3 has exceeded all expectations and has become a groundbreaking success for Larian Studios. The studio, known for their CRPGs like Divinity: Original Sin 2, likely anticipated some hype for the return of the beloved series. However, the game's performance has been nothing short of a phenomenon. By bringing Dungeons and Dragons into the world of gaming, Baldur's Gate 3 has revolutionized the Forgotten Realms setting in an unprecedented manner. The lore of Faerun explored within the game is based on the Fifth Edition of its source material. Interestingly, Baldur's Gate 3 also draws inspiration from another famous series within the genre.

One of the most captivating aspects of Baldur's Gate 3 for many fans is the fact that it continues a franchise that had been dormant for decades. The previous Baldur's Gate game was released in 2000, making this new installment long-awaited by fans. Despite its dedicated following, the series and the CRPG genre as a whole have always existed within a niche. As a result, many people are more familiar with titles like Mass Effect and Dragon Age, which were directly inspired by the Baldur's Gate duology. However, another cult-classic CRPG from the original era has also had an influence on Baldur's Gate 3, further adding to its appeal.

The Legacy of Planescape: Torment

Planescape: Torment, an early adaptation of the Dungeons and Dragons formula in gaming, continues to receive praise from fans despite its original release in 1999. Set in the city of Sigil and various planes of the multiverse, this adventure follows The Nameless One, an immortal amnesiac cursed to lose memories with each death. Unlike other games in the genre that focus on combat, Planescape stands out for its emphasis on narrative and player choice.

Even with its Enhanced Edition update, Planescape's age is evident when compared to the original Baldur's Gate and its sequel. For years, many players have found the game inaccessible due to its outdated graphics and experimental user interface, especially for those accustomed to the convenience of modern games. While the Baldur's Gate franchise also faced similar challenges for a long time, Larian Studios' recent efforts in the current generation have become a shining example of what CRPGs can achieve.

Planescape Could Thrive With the Baldur's Gate Treatment

A new Planescape game has the potential to have a significant impact, similar to Baldur's Gate 3's success. While Planescape: Torment didn't have a coherent series, the original game might benefit more from a remake rather than a sequel. With its highly praised narrative, the narrative-focused experience of Planescape would align well with the latest Baldur's Gate's formula.

Larian Studios gained attention with their recent success, but they are also dedicated to maintaining their values by exploring unique CRPG experiences. Despite the financial success of Baldur's Gate 3, Larian is prioritizing a smaller project for an even grander experience in the future. Considering the self-contained nature of The Nameless One's story, Planescape: Torment would be a perfect fit for their vision and could potentially be revitalized in the future.

Baldur's Gate 3 is available now for PC, and releases on September 6 for PS5.