Ok, folks, I'm a huge computer RPG fan, having bought all Might&Magic series, all SSI games, all Bethesda titles, etc. I did thoroughly enjoy Baldur's Gate and here's why:
1. Fantastic story line. I felt the storyline was believable, seamless and thoroughly interesting. Interplay cut no corners in the production and execution of this aspect. There are countless NPCs for interaction, several unforgettable NPCs for hire (who can forget Minsc and Boo?)
2. Above average sound, graphics and animation. I felt that the graphics were loads of fun although mobility was an issue. I did get frustrated often by trying to get all my characters to go to one spot (Interplay should look into better AI for characters maneuvering around objects)
3. Cut-away scenes (movies, dreams, etc.) really served to push the plot along. At no time were you confused about your goal yet you never felt forced to do that above any other sub-plot. Guidance without force, my friends..
There were a few things, in retrospect, that could have been better:
1. Interface. I often got lost amidst the sea of clicks, commands, quick-items, etc. Combat should be streamlined rather that the mayhem it always was. I found myself having to retarget all the NPCs because they'd simply stop fighting for no reason.
2. Scripts. The combat scripts written for PCs should be revamped and fine-tuned. Rather than have set lists, perhaps an Combat Options menu for each player, to turn off/on options such as Defensive Spells/Offensive Spells.. Melee/Ranged Weapon Attack, Defend, etc.
I haven't tried the expansion set (Tales of the Sword Coast) but I'm sure it adds plenty to the gaming experience
Click to Enlarge Baldur's Gate Compilation Manufacturer: Atari Packaging: Retail DVD case Platform: Windows Special 4-game collection. Play the origin...More at eBay
The plot line of the game involves the regions around the cities of Baldur's Gate and Amn These cities are involved in a plot to destabilize the entir...More at Amazon Marketplace
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