Summary
- Release Year: 2001
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy
- Platforms: Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: BioWare, BioWare Edmonton
- Publishers: Black Isle Studios, Interplay Entertainment
Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal (2001)
Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal is the epic conclusion to the Bhaal saga, and one of the most critically acclaimed RPGs of all time. It was developed by BioWare and published by Interplay Entertainment in 2001. The game takes place after the events of Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn, and follows the player character as they attempt to stop the rise of the evil god Bhaal.
The game features a vast new dungeon, Watcher’s Keep, as well as new enemies, spells, and items. It also introduces a new character class, the monk, and a new alignment, chaotic neutral.
Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal was praised for its deep and engaging story, its challenging combat, and its memorable characters. It was also praised for its innovative use of the Infinity Engine, which allowed for a more immersive and interactive experience.
Story
The story of Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal begins shortly after the events of Shadows of Amn. The player character, who is the child of the evil god Bhaal, has defeated the evil demigod Irenicus and sealed the portal to the Abyss.
However, Bhaal is not truly dead. His essence has been scattered across the world, and his followers are working to resurrect him. The player character must travel across the Sword Coast to find and destroy Bhaal’s essence before he can rise again.
Along the way, the player character will encounter a variety of new allies and enemies. They will also learn more about their own past and destiny.
Gameplay
Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal is a role-playing game that uses the Infinity Engine. The game is played from a top-down perspective, and the player controls a party of up to six characters.
The game’s combat system is turn-based, and players can use a variety of weapons, spells, and abilities to defeat their enemies. The game also features a deep crafting system, which allows players to create their own weapons, armor, and potions.
Characters
Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal features a cast of memorable characters, including:
- The player character: The player character is the child of the evil god Bhaal. They must travel across the Sword Coast to find and destroy Bhaal’s essence before he can rise again.
- Minsc: A chaotic good ranger who is always accompanied by his hamster, Boo.
- Jaheira: A lawful good fighter who is seeking revenge for the death of her family.
- Keldorn Firecam: A lawful neutral paladin who is struggling to come to terms with his past.
- Aerie: A chaotic good cleric who is trying to overcome her fear of flying.
- Nalia De’Arnise: A chaotic neutral mage who is searching for her lost brother.
Reception
Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its deep and engaging story, its challenging combat, and its memorable characters. It was also praised for its innovative use of the Infinity Engine, which allowed for a more immersive and interactive experience.
The game won numerous awards, including Game of the Year from IGN and PC Gamer. It was also inducted into the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame in 2004.
Legacy
Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal is considered to be one of the greatest RPGs of all time. It has been praised for its deep and engaging story, its challenging combat, and its memorable characters. The game has also been praised for its innovative use of the Infinity Engine, which allowed for a more immersive and interactive experience.
The game has had a lasting impact on the RPG genre. It has inspired numerous other games, including Neverwinter Nights, Dragon Age: Origins, and Pillars of Eternity. It has also helped to popularize the use of the Infinity Engine, which has been used in a number of other successful RPGs.
Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal is a classic RPG that is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
9.5/10
Art
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