Summary
Baldur’s Gate 3is pretty faithful to its TTRPG base ofD&D 5e, but it sets its mechanics apart with key rulings over spellcasting, short rests, rationing, and more. While most of these differences can be homebrewed into the original game, there’s one beloved aspect ofBaldur’s Gate 3that’s far less compatible.
One of the most memorable parts ofBaldur’s Gate 3is its complex and interestingcast of characters. Not only have the game’s NPCs and companions become staples of online culture, they’ve undoubtedly inspired many DMs and players. The title’s mix of serious subject matter and deep characterization with some sillier antics and larger-than-life setpieces help make its cast particularly appealing to TTRPG players.
Baldur’s Gate 3’s Fantastic Romance Options Are Poorly Suited to D&D And Other TTRPGs
Another reason the game’s characters are so memorable isthe romance system found inBaldur’s Gate 3. The title’s romance mechanics are incredibly thorough, with hours of content and 14 romance options. Its range of fun and inclusive choices allows players to get to know their companions and indulge in their fantasies. However, this type of system is one that not only lacks compatibility withBaldur’s Gate 3’s TTRPG roots, it’s something often frowned upon. It’s not like romance or sexual content doesn’t exist in the space, but it’s a subject that’s more likely to kick off a horror story than others.
Romance Is Really Awkward In TTRPGs
Romance and sexual content may sound like an appealing fantasy to indulge in, but the concept quickly turns sour in a real-life roleplaying setting. An NPC in a videogame isn’t likely to make someone nervous about their performance, but even typical roleplaying can be a struggle for some when in front of their friends. If someone finds that embarrassing, then they’re likely to yearn for death when playing up an intense level of intimacy. Not only that, but there’s nothinginD&D 5eto really prep a dungeon masteror player for a sudden advance.
A sudden sexual/romantic advance, in fact, is precisely the thing that’s made romance an infamous subject in TTRPGs. The line between performance and an honest expression of feeling can be gray, and this grayness can lead to some trying to use the medium to make an unwanted advance. Even well-intentioned, wholly theatrical flirtation can end up hurting someone who would be uncomfortable with such an insertion. If romance is to be a factor, those runninggames likeD&Dshould use a ‘session zero’so everybody involved knows what they’re getting into.
Romance In Live-Play Shows Like Critical Role Also May Not Work At Most Tables
Live-play shows likeCritical Rolehave been doing whatBaldur’s Gate 3is doing now since 2015—bringing masses of people into TTRPGs. While this is great for the hobby, newcomers should know that live-play shows, which have often featured romance between players, aren’t totally accurate to what can be expected at the table. That’s not to say that those shows aren’t ‘real’D&D, but that they are high-budget affairs with professional actors—actors who are well-versed in safety tools and the boundaries of their fellows. Jumping into a romance arc in anyD&Dgame takes planning and consent.
Third-Party Content Can Be A Big Help For Those Who Want To Try Regardless
WOTC’s official 5e books may not give much advice on handling romance or sexual content, butthird party material forD&Dand other systems just might be the help DMs and players need (so long as everyone is game). The TTRPG Safety Toolkit and the MCDM Tabletop Safety Toolkit are good guides for keeping everyone comfortable, and the two-player systemStar Crossedcould be a good alternative to romance inD&D—not least because having only two players will avoid stalling the game for a wider group.
Dungeons and Dragons
Created by Gary Gygax, Dungeons & Dragons is a tabletop game in which players craft their own worlds and band together to take on adventures through mysterious realms outlined in companion materials. One of the best role-playing games ever made, it has been adapted into a variety of video games and other media.
