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