Wizards of the Coast are pushing Dungeons and Dragons to new heights with an upcoming film, the acclaimed game Baldur's Gate 3, rulebooks planned for 2024, and a deeper dive into the video game realm. Among these endeavors is Gameloft's forthcoming D&D survival game, which could benefit from a strategic decision to avoid a common trope.
In March, Gameloft Montreal, known for Disney Dreamlight, unveiled their upcoming D&D game. The studio's announcement described the game as a blend of survival, life simulation, and action RPG, a departure from titles like Baldur's Gate 3. Undoubtedly, the success of the latter influenced this shift towards more video game adaptations. Even the traditional tabletop role-playing game is venturing further into the gaming industry; Wizards of the Coast is emphasizing digital sales through D&DBeyond, and its upcoming Virtual TableTop is poised for console integration.
Why Gameloft's D&D Game Should Avoid Baldur's Gate
While Gameloft's project is set in the Forgotten Realms, the same world as Baldur's Gate 3, there are aspects of this setting that should be sidestepped. In particular, the inclusion of Baldur's Gate would not align well with the unique direction of this new game. Despite limited information available, several factors argue against its incorporation, even though Baldur's Gate holds immense iconic value. It is time for Gameloft to break away from the trend of forcing Baldur's Gate into D&D media.
Respecting Baldur's Gate 3's Territory
The Forgotten Realms setting is heavily saturated, almost becoming the default backdrop for D&D, overshadowing other popular worlds like Ravenloft or Greyhawk. Baldur's Gate, in particular, has been excessively utilized. The city prominently features in Baldur's Gate 3, taking center stage. It also appears in other Baldur's Gate games, the adventure Baldur's Gate: Descent Into Avernus, and is undeniably one of the most recognizable elements of D&D.
Given these circumstances, it would be prudent for Gameloft to steer clear of this city. Inclusion of Baldur's Gate would inevitably invite comparisons to the critical and financial success of Baldur's Gate 3. While Gameloft's game may shine on its own, it is wiser for it to carve its own path. Baldur's Gate has had its time in the limelight; introducing new locales would not only benefit a fresh game but also attract new fans to the D&D universe.
Embracing the Wilderness in Gameloft's Game
Moreover, Gameloft's D&D game emphasizes survival gameplay. Hence, it might be more fitting to avoid urban settings altogether. Not just Baldur's Gate, but cities like Waterdeep or Neverwinter could hinder the immersive survival experience. The game could thrive by focusing on small villages such as Phandalin or vast uncharted wilderness. Random encounters, night-time camp vigils, and ancient tomb discoveries in hills and forests truly epitomize classic D&D survival adventures.
On the flip side, there are lesser-known urban hubs in the Forgotten Realms, hidden from mainstream audiences. As D&D evolves with the upcoming 2024 rule updates, unexplored regions of the Forgotten Realms should be uncovered and celebrated.