This has been said before, but it should be said again: What. A. Triumph.

I bought into Early Access in October of 2020, having been impressed by what I saw as a robust character creator and an RPG with a hopeful amount of potential. I had always struggled to get into turn-based RPGs, and after a few runs through the character creator and first handful of quests, I uninstalled the game. I was content to wait until it was finished. I didn't even know the game was set to release until two days prior to the event. Between hearing good things about the studio (and the surrounding apparent fear/shame/outrage from other AAA game studios), my interest was piqued once again. I came home from work on the morning of August 3rd, and installed the full version of this turned-based RPG.

I haven't been able to put it down since. I've even come to prefer the turn-based system BG3 has. I'm not even that far into it, but I've found myself laughing or in tearful silence of various characters and scenes that my Paladin (Oath of Vengeance!!!) found himself in. The heartfelt passion and attention to detail in every single aspect of this game is astounding. Interactions between characters feel genuine, nuanced, and believable.

From the genuine and loyal, ride-or-die friendship that my Paladin shares with Gale, to the blossom of trust and affection that he and Shadowheart are exploring together, to the camaraderie and reassurance offered to a wandering protector wrought with guilt and self-doubt. To stumbling upon that scene with the ogre.

What an achievement this game has been. I can't wait to get home so I can play it some more. I wish I had people to play with. One day, I'll have to experience this game with a group (because that is possible too, holy cow!).

Baldur's Gate 3 absolutely sets the new standard for RPGs in the AAA space. Congratulations and THANK YOU to Larian Studio. Thank you for your dedication and staying true to your vision!

To my fellow Paladins who've sworn an Oath of Vengeance,
Fight the Greater Evil.
No Mercy for the Wicked.