Is BG3 a sequel to Baldur's Gate 1 and 2?

Is BG3 a sequel to Baldur's Gate 1 and 2?

Yes, Baldur's Gate 3 is a direct sequel to the beloved Baldur's Gate 1 and 2, continuing the saga set in the Forgotten Realms. The game takes place approximately 100 years after the events of Baldur's Gate 2: Shadows of Amn, and shortly after the events of the Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition tabletop campaign, 'Descent into Avernus.'

This temporal gap allows for a fresh start while still honoring the legacy of the original games. the world has evolved, and new threats have emerged. While direct knowledge of the previous games isn't strictly necessary to enjoy Baldur's Gate 3, understanding the established lore and the history of the Sword Coast can enrich the experience. References to past events and characters may appear, offering nods to long-time fans.

The narrative of Baldur's Gate 3 is deeply rooted in Dungeons & Dragons lore, specifically utilizing the 5th edition ruleset. The game was developed in close collaboration with Wizards of the Coast, ensuring an authentic and faithful adaptation of the tabletop experience. This connection means that many of the creatures, spells, and mechanics familiar to D&D players will be present in the game.

The opening cinematic provides a crucial exposition dump, explaining the immediate threat of the Mind Flayers and their parasitic tadpoles, as well as the involvement of the Githyanki. This sets the stage for the player's personal struggle for survival and the larger conflict brewing in the Forgotten Realms. The story picks up directly from the events of 'Descent into Avernus,' where the city of Elturel was pulled into Avernus, the first layer of the Nine Hells, and subsequently saved.

The game's structure, with its distinct acts and focus on a main questline alongside numerous side quests, mirrors the epic scope of its predecessors. Players will once again be tasked with assembling a party of companions, making difficult choices, and shaping the destiny of the world. The legacy of Baldur's Gate is carried forward through its rich storytelling, complex characters, and the freedom it offers players to forge their own path.