Baldur's Gate 3 has become a landmark release in the CRPG genre, successfully extending its reach beyond the PC to platforms such as the PS5. The developers, Larian Studios, are now planning to introduce a cross-play feature for the game, specifically for its co-op gameplay. Although a specific release date for this update is not yet known, the implications are far-reaching. This article aims to provide a detailed understanding of the cross-play feature, its potential impact on gameplay, and the larger significance for the CRPG genre.
The Evolution of Baldur's Gate 3
Larian Studios has shown a sustained commitment to bringing CRPGs to the mainstream. The release of Baldur's Gate 3, particularly its expansion to PS5, underscores the success of their efforts. Larian Studios has previously worked on highly-praised games like Divinity: Original Sin, but with Baldur's Gate 3, they have tapped into a broader audience. A significant feature, slated to come in the future, is cross-play, which aims to remove the barriers between different gaming platforms.
Cross-Play and Co-op in Baldur's Gate 3
Traditionally, the Baldur's Gate series and CRPGs in general were focused on single-player experiences. However, Baldur's Gate 3 has managed to incorporate a co-op feature that allows for both online and split-screen gameplay. The game's multiplayer functionality is already being well-received, even though it represents a departure from the genre's focus on dialogue-heavy experiences.
Expanding to Multiple Platforms
Baldur's Gate 3 was initially popular among PC gamers, but its PS5 release has expanded its reach. Moreover, an Xbox Series X/S version is planned for later this year, along with a Mac version. Currently, the game only supports cross-saves across these platforms. However, the future update aims to enable players to join a friend's game, regardless of the console they are using.
Why Cross-Play Was Always in the Cards
Larian Studios' Director of Publishing confirmed that cross-play was always intended to be a part of Baldur's Gate 3. While the studio is currently focused on performance improvements and bug fixes, cross-play is in the development pipeline. Although no specific date is set for its release, it's reasonable to expect that this feature will be rolled out following the game's Xbox release.