Xbox Game Pass: Legendary RPG series surprise-drops with parts 1 and 2

Baldur’s Gate is a classic RPG that first launched in 1998, developed by BioWare for Windows and macOS. Players step into the role of a nameless hero drawn into a web of political intrigue, embarking on a journey across the Sword Coast in the Forgotten Realms. This old-school, party-based adventure features companions, factions and a wealth of quests. Built on the rules of the legendary Dungeons & Dragons tabletop system, the game offers tactically demanding real-time-with-pause combat, in-depth character creation and branching dialogues shaped by moral choices. Its sequel, Baldur’s Gate II, was released in 2000 and picks up the story directly. Imprisoned by the powerful mage Irenicus, you must fight for your freedom. The second installment builds on the original with more intricate class options, a larger world filled with towns and dungeons, and even deeper gameplay systems.

Thanks to Beamdog and its internal team Overhaul Games, fans were treated to a revamped version of the original game in 2012 with the release of Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition. A year later, an upgraded version of Baldur’s Gate II followed. These editions brought support for modern resolutions and operating systems along with a redesigned user interface. Numerous bugs from the original games were addressed and quality-of-life improvements were added – such as an expanded quick bar, inventory search and enhanced party management. Beamdog also introduced several new companions, each with unique backstories, dialogues and personal quests. The Enhanced Edition of Baldur’s Gate further included Siege of Dragonspear, a completely new adventure that bridges the narrative gap between the first and second games.