Baldur's Gate 3 Romance Options Won't Be As Straightforward As You Might Expect

Baldur's Gate 3 might only be in early access later this year, but developer Larian Studios already has big plans for how it will redefine role-playing game relationships with your companions.

Specifically, when it comes to romance options with your companions. Speaking to VG24/7, senior writer Adam Smith mentioned how so many RPGs treat romance as a reward for saying the right things or giving the right gifts to characters. In Baldur's Gate 3, Smith wants to create more complex relationships that have a lasting emotional impact.

"We want to have jealousy," Smith explained. "We want to have just great joy in it, as well. But yes, we don't want it to be a case of, 'you brought me the gift that I like the most, so you got +50 affection.' It's much more based on how you deal with them, and the things you do. So, when I say, 'everyone's romanceable by everybody else,' that’s not in every playthrough".

Smith confirmed that all companions can be romanced not only by the protagonist, but by all other characters too. This can create moments where companions will develop relationships outside of your control, with Smith using Liselle, the monogamous Githyanki, as an example.

"So, if you sleep with Liselle one night at camp, the next night you might well just find her sleeping with somebody else," Smith added. "And she's going to be like, 'oh, that was a bit of fun, wasn't it? How are you doing?' And you’re just like, 'oh!' Heartbroken!"

Baldur's Gate 3 will hopefully have these intricate relationships included in its early access launch, which will include the first act and five companion characters. It's launching later this year on PC and Google Stadia, with console ports unlikely for now. If you missed it, catch up on the full gameplay reveal from PAX East, as well as our impressions of additional gameplay.