I didn’t have time to watch the two-hour LARP session on the Baldur’s Gate 3 ad last night. Fortunately, developers Larian Studios have bundled the update changes into a simple 9-minute update video. The July 13 update will allow you to influence skill checks and role-playing a bit more.
In skill tests, the new active roll system lets you play to your advantage a bit. You will be able to see your bonuses on each test and cast spells to try to influence the dice roll. You can also spend inspiration points on a raise. In multiplayer, other players can even help you. As an example, game director Swen Winke did a lockpick on a door that required a 20. He rolled a 15, but his mate Cleric rolled an eight to open the door.
While there are no new classes in the update, a new background objective system adds content to the current roster. When you create your character, you also select an additional background from 130 choices. They will reward you for playing with the selected role. So if you choose to be a folk hero from the list (“Champion of the people, defying tyrants and monsters to protect the helpless. Saving innocent people in imminent danger will make your legend grow”), you will receive a point here and there when your actions match the backdrop. You will also receive small quests related to this story.
The campsite is undergoing a small overhaul, with additional resources and supplies needed to get the tent out for a decent rest.
AI should be a lot more responsive now. Enemies will pick up dropped weapons and help each other heal, and your own team should be smarter in their own choices.
The full patch will be released on Tuesday the 13th. I have considered getting into BG3 as I would like to play something non-Minecraft with my partner. Has anyone done something similar? Tell me how it went.
The game is slated for early access next year.
[Also, Adam Smith, who works for Larian Studios was previously our Deputy Editor.]
