Overview
Computer RPGs were dying. Then Baldur’s Gate arrived. BioWare’s Forgotten Realms epic combined faithful AD&D 2nd Edition rules with real-time-with-pause combat, party management, and companions with actual personalities. The Infinity Engine it introduced would power the greatest RPGs of the era.
Fast facts
- Developer: BioWare.
- Publisher: Interplay/Black Isle.
- Engine: Infinity Engine.
- Setting: Forgotten Realms (Sword Coast).
AD&D implementation
| Rule |
Adaptation |
| THAC0 |
Combat calculations |
| Saving throws |
Spell resistance |
| Class restrictions |
Race/class limits |
| Spell slots |
Vancian magic |
Real-time with pause
| Feature |
Function |
| Real-time combat |
Continuous action |
| Pause |
Tactical planning |
| AI scripts |
Party automation |
| Queued actions |
Command stacking |
Party system
| Element |
Implementation |
| Six members |
Full party |
| Recruitment |
Found throughout world |
| Personalities |
Distinct characters |
| Interactions |
Party banter |
Memorable companions
| Character |
Class |
| Minsc |
Ranger (and Boo) |
| Imoen |
Thief |
| Jaheira |
Fighter/Druid |
| Edwin |
Conjurer |
Infinity Engine
| Game |
Year |
| Baldur’s Gate |
1998 |
| Planescape: Torment |
1999 |
| Icewind Dale |
2000 |
| Baldur’s Gate II |
2000 |
Critical reception
| Achievement |
Impact |
| RPG revival |
Proved market existed |
| Sales success |
Millions sold |
| Awards |
Multiple Game of Year |
See also