Summary
Baldur’s Gate 3’s treatment of character backgrounds unlocks a wealth of potential that could be put to use inDungeons & Dragonsas well. SinceBaldur’s Gate 3is based onDungons & Dragons, it’s only natural that they would share several mechanics. Due to the difference in mediums though, several of these shared mechanics feel significantly different from one form to the other. Backgrounds are one prominent example, withBaldur’s Gate 3’s variants being much more impactful. In fact,Dungeons & Dragonswould benefit greatly from copyingBaldur’s Gate 3’s approach to applying character backgrounds to gameplay.
When it comes toplayers who loveDungeons & Dragons,Baldur’s Gate 3may be the perfect video game for them. Several aspects, from playable races, classes, and skills, come directly from the tabletop franchise. In essence, the game is like a fullD&Dcampaign in video game form, especially since players have the option of playing co-op, just like they could if they shared the same table. While there are still several stark differences between the two, the similarities will help fans of one learn how to play the other. It’s possible thatBaldur’s Gate 3could help fuel another boom for the hobby.
Baldur’s Gate 3 Incorporates Backgrounds Into Gameplay More Effectively Than D&D 5e
Backgrounds in Dungeons & Dragons Are Essentially Small Character Buffs
As a part of character creation,backgrounds inDungeons & Dragonsare but one of many selections for players to make. Each background grants players a bonus in a couple of skills, as well as some occasional other features. For example, a Noble will reap the benefits of being a member of high society, while a Criminal would have a set of thieves' tools for use in their endeavors. However, most of the time, these benefits end up amounting to little more than small bonuses mechanically. Conversely,Baldur’s Gate 3managed to take backgrounds and turn them into something far more important.
Baldur’s Gate 3 Turns Backgrounds Into Vital Character Components
There are more than just skill increases behind thecharacter backgrounds inBaldur’s Gate 3. While each one does give bonuses to certain skills, they also have a larger feature. When characters make decisions in line with their background, they receive an Inspiration point and a small experience bonus. A Soldier, for instance, would receive Inspiration from combat-related feats and moments of courage. Meanwhile, a Guild Artisan gets similar results from crafting and moments of ingenuity. This approach rewards players for staying consistent with the characterization of their created protagonist, and it’s a much more immersive feature thanDungeons & Dragons' take on backgrounds.
Since many important moments inBaldur’s Gate 3require skill checks, rerolls from Inspiration can prove vital for player success.
Baldur’s Gate 3’s Version of Backgrounds Would Greatly Improve D&D
The way that the game handles backgrounds is an excellent lesson thatBaldur’s Gate 3could teachD&Dplayers. By granting incentive for roleplay, DMs could encourage players to get more involved and immersed in their characters' actions. While the rewards would need to be balanced, an Inspiration point and small experience boost seem fair, being small but significant enough to be worth it. In fact, DMs can already take this on as a homebrew rule without waiting for an official rule change. By doing so,Dungeons and Dragons' backgrounds would become far more valuable than the minor bonuses they currently offer.
Character backgrounds are a small but notable part ofBaldur’s Gate 3that is worth repeating. Making acustom character inBaldur’s Gate 3is as exciting as making one forDungeons & Dragons, complete with the impressive amount of options at the player’s fingertips. It just happens that where backgrounds are concerned, the game manages to do far more than its tabletop counterpart did.Dungeons & Dragonsis still an excellent game that rewards creativity, but it would do well to followBaldur’s Gate 3’s lead regarding backgrounds.
Baldur’s Gate 3
WHERE TO PLAY
Abducted, infected, lost. You are turning into a monster, but as the corruption inside you grows, so does your power. Forge a tale of fellowship and betrayal, sacrifice and survival, and the lure of absolute power. Caught in a conflict between devils, deities, and sinister otherworldly forces, you and your party will determine the fate of the Forgotten Realms.THE ULTIMATE D&D EXPERIENCEChoose from a wide selection of D&D races and classes, or play as an origin character with a hand-crafted background. Adventure, loot, battle, and romance as you journey through the Forgotten Realms and beyond. Play alone or as a party of up to four in multiplayer – and select your companions carefully.A CINEMATIC STORYTELLING EPICForged with the new Divinity 4.0 engine, Baldur’s Gate 3 gives you unprecedented freedom to explore, experiment, and interact with a world that reacts to your choices. A grand, cinematic narrative brings you closer to your characters than ever before, as you venture through our biggest world yet. Romance, deceive, aid, obstruct, and grow alongside your friends thanks to Larian’s next-generation RPG engine.
