Can You Play Baldur’s Gate 3 Before Starfield? A Look at the Length and Depth of Larian’s Epic Role-Playing Game
Introduction
For avid gamers eagerly awaiting the release of Bethesda’s highly anticipated Starfield, the sudden announcement of Baldur’s Gate 3’s earlier release date may leave them wondering if they will have enough time to experience this epic journey before diving into the vast world of Starfield. With developer Larian Studios estimating an average playthrough time of 75 to 100 hours, and potentially double that for completionists, players will need to carefully strategize their gaming schedules to make the most of both titles.
A Sprawling Adventure
Baldur’s Gate 3, created by the renowned developers of the Divinity: Original Sin series, is not a game to be taken lightly. The open-ended role-playing game offers players a vast and immersive experience, filled with complex narratives, intricate gameplay mechanics, and an enormous amount of content.
The PC version release date has been moved forward from August 31 to August 3, allowing players to explore the world of Baldur’s Gate 3 before Starfield’s release in early September. However, the PlayStation 5 version will be slightly delayed to September 6, while the Xbox Series X and S versions are still without a release window.
The Length of the Journey
Larian Studios’ founder and boss, Swen Vincke, recently shared insights on the playtime of Baldur’s Gate 3. He stated that a standard playthrough of the game is estimated to take between 75 and 100 hours. However, for those who wish to thoroughly explore and “do everything” the game has to offer, expect that playtime to double.
Vincke also mentioned the potential for even longer playtimes for players who choose to engage in multiplayer sessions with friends, similar to the experience of playing Dungeons & Dragons. He stated that multiplayer players might take up to a year or more to complete the game as they organize regular sessions.
A Game With Natural Breaks
Baldur’s Gate 3 is divided into distinct chapters, each marked by significant transitions. These transitions provide natural stopping points for players who may want to take a break from the game and explore other gaming options. Vincke emphasizes that the game is “big enough” to allow players to step away and return to it at their own pace.
The Depth and Replayability
One of the defining aspects of Baldur’s Gate 3 is the enormous depth and replayability it offers. Vincke explained that players may feel compelled to replay the game multiple times due to the countless possibilities and variations in gameplay. The game features an extensive array of classes, subclasses, races, and sub-races, providing players with an abundance of choices.
Vincke cited the example of Divinity: Original Sin 2, where players continued to discover new elements of the game years after its release. With Baldur’s Gate 3 offering significantly more depth and complexity, it’s clear that players can expect to spend an extended period exploring its world and uncovering its secrets.
Conclusion
While the allure of Starfield might be strong for many players, the enticing world of Baldur’s Gate 3 offers an epic journey that should not be overlooked. With an estimated playtime of 75 to 100 hours for a standard playthrough, and potentially even longer for completionists or those engaged in multiplayer, it is clear that Baldur’s Gate 3 demands a substantial time commitment.
Whether you choose to embark on this adventure before or after venturing into the depths of Starfield, both games promise to deliver engaging and immersive experiences. The decision ultimately rests on each individual gamer’s personal preferences and priorities.
As the world eagerly awaits the release of both titles, players must carefully consider their gaming schedules and prioritize the gaming experience that resonates the most with them. Regardless of the order in which they are played, both Baldur’s Gate 3 and Starfield are poised to captivate players and offer unforgettable journeys into the vast realms of the imagination.
<< photo by Yaroslav Shuraev >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.