How Does Multiplayer Work in BG3: A Deep Dive into Cooperative Gameplay and Chaotic Shenanigans

Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3), developed by Larian Studios, is a sprawling RPG that combines deep storytelling, tactical combat, and a richly detailed world. One of its most exciting features is its multiplayer mode, which allows players to experience the game together in a shared adventure. But how does multiplayer work in BG3? And why does it feel like herding cats with a penchant for fireballs? Let’s break it down.

1. The Basics of Multiplayer in BG3

Multiplayer in BG3 is designed to be a cooperative experience, allowing up to four players to join forces and explore the game’s world together. Each player creates their own character, choosing from a variety of races, classes, and backgrounds. These characters then form a party, sharing the same story and making decisions collectively—or, more often, chaotically.

• Party Dynamics: Players can join an existing campaign or start a new one together. The host’s game progress is shared, meaning all players experience the same story beats and consequences.
• Character Control: Each player controls their own character, but they can also take control of companions recruited in the game. This adds flexibility but can also lead to hilarious arguments over who gets to romance Astarion.
• Shared Decisions: Dialogue and story choices are made collaboratively. This can lead to intense debates, especially when deciding whether to side with the goblins or the druids.

2. Drop-In, Drop-Out Gameplay

One of the standout features of BG3’s multiplayer is its seamless drop-in, drop-out functionality. Players can join or leave a game at any time without disrupting the flow of the campaign. If a player leaves, their character becomes an NPC controlled by the remaining players or the AI.

• Flexibility: This feature is perfect for groups with unpredictable schedules. You can play with different friends on different days without starting a new campaign.
• Chaos Potential: However, this also means that a player might return to find their character has been used as a decoy in a trap or has accidentally triggered a diplomatic incident with a dragon.

3. Tactical Combat and Coordination

BG3’s combat system is turn-based, requiring careful planning and coordination. In multiplayer, this becomes a test of teamwork—or a showcase of how badly things can go wrong when everyone has their own agenda.

• Shared Initiative: Players and enemies act in turns based on initiative rolls. This means you’ll need to strategize together, deciding who attacks first, who heals, and who inevitably sets the battlefield on fire.
• Friendly Fire: Spells and abilities can affect allies, so communication is key. Or, if you’re feeling mischievous, you can “accidentally” cast Fireball on your friend’s character.

4. The Role of Dialogue and Choices

BG3 is a narrative-driven game, and multiplayer adds a new layer of complexity to its branching storylines. Dialogue options are determined by the character initiating the conversation, but all players can vote on the response.

• Role-Playing Opportunities: Multiplayer allows for unique role-playing dynamics. One player might be a noble paladin trying to uphold justice, while another is a rogue who just wants to steal everything that isn’t nailed down.
• Conflict and Consequences: Differing choices can lead to in-party conflict, both in-game and out-of-game. For example, one player might decide to betray an NPC, leading to unforeseen consequences that the entire party has to deal with.

5. The Chaos of Exploration

Exploring the world of BG3 is a joy in multiplayer, but it’s also a recipe for chaos. Players can split up to cover more ground, but this often leads to one player triggering a trap, starting a fight, or accidentally aggroing an entire village.

• Independent Movement: Each player can move their character independently, allowing for creative problem-solving. For example, one player might distract a guard while another sneaks past.
• Shared Discoveries: Loot and secrets are shared, but so are the consequences of reckless actions. One player’s curiosity might lead to a deadly encounter that the entire party has to face.

6. The Social Aspect of Multiplayer

At its core, BG3’s multiplayer is about having fun with friends. The game’s systems encourage collaboration, but they also leave room for mischief and mayhem.

• Shared Laughter: Few things are as satisfying as watching your friend’s character fail a persuasion check and get thrown in jail.
• Memorable Moments: Multiplayer creates unique stories that you’ll be talking about for years. Whether it’s a perfectly executed plan or a disaster of epic proportions, these moments are what make BG3’s multiplayer so special.

7. Technical Considerations

BG3’s multiplayer is generally smooth, but there are a few technical aspects to keep in mind.

• Cross-Platform Play: Currently, BG3 does not support cross-platform play. PC players can only play with other PC players, and the same goes for console players.
• Mod Compatibility: Mods can enhance the game, but they can also cause issues in multiplayer. Make sure all players have the same mods installed to avoid conflicts.
• Performance: BG3 is a demanding game, and multiplayer can strain lower-end systems. Ensure all players have a stable internet connection and capable hardware.

8. Why Multiplayer Feels Like Herding Cats

Despite its many strengths, BG3’s multiplayer can sometimes feel like herding cats. Players have different playstyles, priorities, and levels of commitment to the story. This can lead to hilarious, frustrating, and unforgettable moments.

• Divergent Goals: One player might want to meticulously explore every corner of the map, while another is rushing to the next story beat.
• Unpredictable Behavior: Multiplayer amplifies the unpredictability of BG3’s systems. A simple conversation can spiral into a full-blown battle, and a carefully laid plan can be ruined by one player’s impulsive decision.

FAQs

Q: Can I play BG3 multiplayer with strangers? A: Yes, you can join public games or invite friends to your campaign. However, playing with strangers can be risky, as they might have different playstyles or goals.

Q: Can I romance other players in multiplayer? A: No, romance options are limited to NPCs. However, you can role-play romantic interactions with other players if you’re feeling creative.

Q: What happens if a player disconnects during combat? A: Their character becomes an NPC controlled by the remaining players or the AI. They can rejoin the game later.

Q: Can I play multiplayer with only two players? A: Yes, BG3 supports multiplayer with as few as two players. You can also recruit NPC companions to fill out your party.

Q: Is multiplayer progress saved for all players? A: Only the host’s progress is saved. Other players will need to rejoin the host’s game to continue the campaign.

In conclusion, multiplayer in BG3 is a unique and rewarding experience that combines cooperative gameplay with the potential for chaos. Whether you’re strategizing in combat, debating story choices, or laughing at your friend’s misfortune, BG3’s multiplayer offers endless opportunities for fun and memorable moments. Just be prepared for the occasional fireball-related disaster.