Baldur’s Gate 3, developed by Larian Studios, is not only a rich and sprawling CRPG filled with tactical combat and deep lore—it’s also one of the most ambitious games ever made when it comes to romance and relationship-building. With its deep character development, branching dialogue, and meaningful choices, Baldur’s Gate 3 redefines what romance can look like in a video game. This review explores how romance is handled in the game, what sets it apart, and why it’s resonating so deeply with players.
Love in the Time of Mind Flayers
At first glance, Baldur’s Gate 3 is about survival. Your character is infected with a mind flayer tadpole and must navigate dangerous alliances, dark secrets, and the looming threat of transformation. But amid this tension lies a beautifully crafted romance system that seamlessly integrates with the main narrative. Whether you’re trying to win the affection of a loyal paladin like Lae’zel, a tormented vampire rogue like Astarion, or the enigmatic Shadowheart, every relationship is impacted by your decisions, your class, your dialogue choices, and even your moral compass.
Player Agency and Choice
What makes Baldur’s Gate 3 stand out in terms of romance is the sheer freedom it offers. Relationships evolve organically. There’s no linear path or binary “gift and flirt” mechanic here. Instead, characters respond to your actions in the world. If you kill innocents or betray allies, companions will notice—and that can sour your relationship or even end a potential romance.
Each character has distinct preferences, personalities, and emotional arcs. Astarion might be attracted to a more dominant, daring protagonist, while Gale seeks connection through intellect and shared vulnerability. There are even options for polyamorous relationships and one-night stands, reflecting the game’s progressive and inclusive approach to romance.
Emotional Depth and Complexity
The writing in Baldur’s Gate 3 is a major strength. Romance scenes aren’t just about flirtation—they’re about trust, trauma, and vulnerability. Characters reveal their deepest fears and personal histories as your bond deepens. A standout example is Karlach, whose flirtatious banter hides a tragic backstory. Winning her heart isn’t just about saying the right things—it’s about being the right person when it matters.
Sexuality is handled with maturity and care. Scenes are intimate, cinematic, and earned—not just rewards for ticking off a checklist. They serve to deepen the emotional stakes of the story, making victories sweeter and betrayals more devastating.
Impact on Gameplay
Romance isn’t just for flavor—it can affect the game. Companions who love or respect you will be more loyal in battle and more likely to side with you during key narrative moments. Conversely, a failed romance or lost trust can lead to companions leaving your party or turning against you.
This integration of romance into the broader game mechanics is masterfully done. It raises the emotional investment players have in their characters and choices, making Baldur’s Gate 3 not just a tactical RPG, but a deeply personal journey.
Inclusivity and Representation
One of the most praised aspects of Baldur’s Gate 3 is its commitment to inclusivity. Same-sex romances, non-binary characters, and a variety of body types and cultural backgrounds are represented in a way that feels natural rather than forced. The game doesn’t tokenize—it celebrates.
This inclusivity helps players see themselves in the world of Baldur’s Gate 3, creating a richer and more meaningful connection with the story and its characters.
Final Verdict
Baldur’s Gate 3 isn’t just one of the best RPGs in recent memory—it’s also a groundbreaking romance game. Its rich characters, meaningful choices, and emotional depth make every relationship feel earned and impactful. Whether you’re looking for a steamy affair, a slow-burn romance, or just deep companionship, this game delivers on all fronts.
For players who value narrative depth and emotional storytelling, Baldur’s Gate 3 sets a new gold standard for romance in video games.
