Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2 remakes reportedly under development
Wizards of the Coast is reportedly returning to its classic isometric roots. Following the unprecedented success of Larian Studios' modern sequel, a new rumor points to full remakes of the original roleplaying legends.
Key Takeaways
- Originals Returning: Wizards of the Coast is reportedly developing full remakes of both Baldur's Gate 1 and 2.
- Veteran Leadership: Kevin Martens, co-lead designer of the original Baldur's Gate 2, is attached to the unannounced project.
- Development Status: The project is in concurrent development alongside Martens' work on the sci-fi RPG Exodus at Archetype Entertainment.
Are Baldur's Gate 1 and 2 Getting Remakes?
Yes, according to a recent leak, both classic Baldur's Gate titles are currently undergoing the full remake treatment. Wizards of the Coast is developing these projects concurrently, leveraging the massive influx of new Dungeons & Dragons fans to revitalize the foundational titles.
The original games were masterclasses in scope and narrative, offering hundreds of hours of exploration across the Sword Coast and the Underdark. Remaking these massive RPGs is a staggering undertaking, but it represents a safer financial bet for Hasbro than building an entirely new sequel from scratch.
A report from PC Gamer states that the remakes will likely feature dramatic overhauls rather than simple resolution bumps. The previous Enhanced Editions released by Beamdog successfully updated the engine for modern hardware, but a ground-up remake opens the door to modern mechanical sensibilities.
How Kevin Martens Connects to the Project
Kevin Martens returning to the franchise adds significant credibility to the project. As the original co-lead designer on Baldur's Gate 2, his understanding of the source material ensures the remake remains faithful to its complex roots.
Martens is already established within the Wizards of the Coast ecosystem. He is actively contributing to Exodus, the highly anticipated sci-fi RPG currently in development at Archetype Entertainment. Juggling two massive RPG projects suggests a supervisory or consulting role, but his direct involvement is a massive win for veteran fans.
The decision to lean on established BioWare alumni reflects a desire to capture the original magic. With Larian Studios stepping away from the D&D license to pursue its own IP, Hasbro needs proven talent to keep the franchise momentum alive.
Will the Combat System Change?
It is currently unconfirmed if the combat system will change from Real-Time with Pause (RTwP) to turn-based mechanics. The original titles relied strictly on RTwP, but updating the remakes to match modern turn-based expectations would require a complete overhaul of the original encounter design.
Wizards of the Coast faces a difficult choice in modernizing the gameplay. Alienating the massive audience that recently discovered the franchise would be a critical mistake. However, forcing turn-based combat into an encounter design built strictly for real-time pacing requires entirely rebuilding the enemy distribution and map flow.
The most logical compromise is a hybrid system. Modern CRPGs have successfully implemented modes that allow players to switch between RTwP and turn-based combat on the fly. Until Hasbro provides official confirmation, players will have to wait to see how the Sword Coast evolves.
Game Designer raised on metal music and RPGs. I approach gaming news with a cool head. I dissect the technical and narrative aspects without ever forcing it. A relaxed writing style that analyses everything from FPS to RPG.
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