Baldurs Gate: Plot summary

In the sprawling world of Baldur’s Gate, a tale of betrayal, divine heritage, and the struggle for power unfolds. As the child of Bhaal, the God of Murder, players embark on a perilous journey filled with dark conspiracies and deadly foes. From the tranquil halls of Candlekeep to the treacherous streets of Baldur’s Gate, the protagonist must navigate a web of intrigue spun by their half-brother, Sarevok, who seeks to unleash chaos and claim godhood. With allies at their side, they will confront not only their lineage but also the very essence of fate itself, leading to epic battles that will determine the future of the realms.

Imagine that this is your story. That it all happened to you. That you were Abdel Adrian or someone that could be put in his place. That the RPG genre and The Forgotten Realms were dynamically changing in front of your eyes.

WATCH OUT FOR THE DIRE SPOILERS!

Prologue

The prologue of Baldur’s Gate sets the stage for an epic adventure steeped in mystery and danger. Players begin their journey in the secluded Candlekeep fortress, where they encounter a series of ominous events that thrust them into a world rife with intrigue. After a fateful meeting with their guardian, Gorion, the protagonist must flee from assassins seeking their demise. This escape leads to a deeper exploration of their identity as a Bhaalspawn, a child of the god of murder, Bhaal. As they navigate through treacherous paths and confront powerful foes, the seeds of a larger conflict are sown, ultimately intertwining their fate with the tumultuous history of Baldur’s Gate and its denizens.

The adventure begins at the door of the inn at Candlekeep fortress. Run the last errands, greet the innkeeper Winthrop, your stepsister Imoen, and deal with some rats in the basement nearby. At some point, you encounter a few strangers who clearly want to kill you. The guards will help you deal with them. Then you run to Gorion.

The sage takes you out of the fortress in a great hurry. You sneak through the woods until you come out into a clearing with stone circles. You encounter a group of well-armed opponents. Their leader, equipped with spiky armor, wants Gorion to turn you in. The mage refuses and tells you to run. You follow the man’s advice.

Chapter 1

Chapter 1 of “Baldur’s Gate” introduces players to a richly woven narrative set in the Forgotten Realms, where they assume the role of a young protagonist raised in the library city of Candlekeep. The story begins with an assassination attempt on the protagonist, leading to a harrowing escape with their guardian, Gorion. This initial conflict sets the stage for a larger conspiracy involving the Iron Throne, a powerful merchant organization. As the protagonist navigates through dangers and allies, they uncover their true heritage as a Bhaalspawn, a child of the god of murder, Bhaal. This revelation propels them into a quest filled with moral dilemmas and fierce battles, ultimately culminating in a clash with their half-brother, Sarevok, who seeks to harness their shared bloodline for his own ambitions.

When you return in the morning, you see signs of a battle. Your stepfather has died. You pick up the letter found on his body – the man apologises for everything and explains that you were going to the Friendly Arm Inn to meet with his friends – Khalid and Jaheira. Before you leave, Imoen joins the party. On the trail, you meet a mysterious old man in red robes. He gives you some good advice and disappears.

After a long journey, you reach the inn. Another assassin is waiting for you. The killer was carrying a letter – you learn about a reward for your head. You head inside to meet Khalid and Jaheira. The couple are saddened to hear of the death of their friend. They take you to the mine in Nashkel which can be the source of the iron problems that plague the entire region.

Chapter 2

In Chapter 2 of the Baldur’s Gate plot summary, the narrative deepens as the protagonist, a Bhaalspawn, grapples with their lineage and the implications of being the child of Bhaal, the God of Murder. Following a harrowing escape from an assassin attack in Candlekeep, the protagonist embarks on a quest for answers alongside their adopted sister, Imoen. As they delve into the mysteries surrounding their heritage, they uncover a sinister conspiracy orchestrated by Sarevok, another Bhaalspawn, who seeks to plunge Baldur’s Gate into chaos to achieve godhood. This chapter sets the stage for intense confrontations and moral dilemmas as the protagonist navigates alliances and confronts the dark legacy of their bloodline.

You head south, pass a few towns where you solve minor problems and get better equipment. You finally reach Nashkel. You are up against another assassin. This is where you can encounter Minsc and Boo – a hunter with a large miniature space hamster. He could join you if you agreed to help retrieve the witch he swore to protect. Did you agree to this? This is your story, I won’t answer that question for you. However, if you agreed to help the man, you probably went off the course, broke through a stronghold full of gnolls and saved Minsc’s (and Boo’s) friend, Dynaheir. And then you went to the mine.

The terrified miners refuse to go deep because their friends disappear without a trace. The corridors are roamed by various creatures and groups of Kobolds. Go and deal with the problem. The fights end in a cave where you meet the leader of the Kobolds – Mulahey. He gave the order to spoil the ores. You dealt with the leader and found a letter indicating that he was merely a pawn in something much bigger. His liaison, Tranzig, waited with the new orders in Beregost. You followed that lead.

After your encounter with Mulahey, you were haunted in your sleep by Gorion’s ghost. The vision suggests that there is disturbing knowledge waiting for you to discover. In the morning, you realized that you had gained a weak healing ability.

Chapter 3

In Chapter 3 of Baldur’s Gate, the protagonist embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth behind their lineage and the dark machinations of the Iron Throne. Following a harrowing escape from Candlekeep, where they witnessed the death of their guardian, Gorion, the protagonist teams up with their childhood friend Imoen. Together, they delve into a conspiracy that threatens not only their lives but also the stability of Baldur’s Gate itself. As they navigate treacherous alliances and confront powerful foes, revelations about their identity as a Bhaalspawn—a descendant of the God of Murder—begin to surface, setting the stage for a conflict that will test their resolve and morality. The stakes rise as they realize that their bloodline is intertwined with a prophecy that could alter the fate of the Sword Coast forever.

The road to Beregost led through Nashkel. You got your reward and faced another assassin. In Beregost, you encounter more thugs who want to get the bounty for your head. Someone really wants you dead. In the city, you have another encounter with the sage in red robes. He introduced himself as Elminster, a legendary magician and friend of Gorion. He gave you some clues about the bandits in the northern part of the Sword Coast, apologized for being so enigmatic before, and then left you.

You found Tranzig in Feldepost’s Inn. Here you get another lead – a map of the bandit campsite. You, of course, went there. You went through a huge part of the region to get there,defeating countless bandits, animals and monsters on your way. You grew stronger. There, in one of the tents, you came across important people of the Iron Throne, a powerful merchant organization based in Baldur’sGate. The leader escaped, but the rest fought back. However, none of them survived. And the lead pointed to the CloakwoodForest.

Chapter 4

In Chapter 4 of “Baldur’s Gate,” the protagonist’s journey intensifies as they delve deeper into the machinations of the Iron Throne, a powerful trade organization with sinister ambitions. Following the harrowing events at Candlekeep, where they narrowly escaped an assassination attempt, the protagonist teams up with their adopted sister, Imoen. Together, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens to plunge Baldur’s Gate into chaos. As they navigate through treacherous alliances and deadly foes, the protagonist learns of their true heritage as a Bhaalspawn, a child of Bhaal, the God of Murder. This revelation sets them on a collision course with Sarevok, another Bhaalspawn who seeks to harness chaos for his own gain, leading to a climactic confrontation that will determine the fate of the city and their own destiny.

The path leading through the Cloakwood Forest wasn’t the easiest – you faced overgrown spiders, wyverns, druids, wild animals. Finally, you reached the Dwarven mines. The mine was leased from the dwarf clan by the Iron Throne. You discovered this after talking to one of the last representatives of this clan. You helped him free the other prisoners. You confronted Davaeorn, the organization’s emissary. After the battle, you found further evidence linking the Iron Throne to the misfortunes plaguing the Sword Coast. You sunk a mine and headed for the Baldur’s Gate.

Chapter 5

In Chapter 5 of the Baldur’s Gate plot summary, the protagonist finally arrives in the bustling city of Baldur’s Gate, a pivotal location in the Sword Coast. Immediately upon entering, they are thrust into action by Scar, an officer of the Flaming Fist, who assigns them a critical task. The chapter unfolds with the protagonist navigating the city’s treacherous underbelly, where alliances are formed and secrets are uncovered. As they delve deeper into the investigation, they encounter Elminster, a legendary figure who provides guidance. The narrative intensifies as the protagonist’s connection to Bhaal, the God of Murder, becomes increasingly significant, setting the stage for confrontations with both allies and foes as they seek to thwart the sinister plans of Sarevok and the Iron Throne.

You are finally here. You have reached the most important place in the Sword Coast – Baldur’s Gate. However, you don’t get the time to enjoy the sights – you almost immediately got the job from a Flaming Fist officer named Scar. After entering through the gate, you are greeted by none other than Elminster. He advises you to rely on both Scar and his superior, Prince Eltan.

By following Scar’s orders, you broke through the city’s sewers. Then you have contacted with Eltan and started investigating the Seven Suns merchant organization. It turns out that the guild members are impersonated by doppelgangers – shapeshifting beings who can perfectly impersonate anyone. Having dealt with this problem, you have finally moved to the headquarters of the Iron Throne in the hope that you will find definitive evidence of the organization’s connection to the recent iron crisis. After dealing with the defenders, some of whom were the doppelgangers, you discover that the rulers of the Throne have gone to Candlekeep. With Eltan’s blessing, you went to your old home…

Chapter 6

In Chapter 6, the protagonist’s journey brings them back to Candlekeep, where they confront the looming threat of the Iron Throne. As they navigate the once-familiar halls, unsettling encounters with old friends hint at deeper dangers lurking within. The discovery of Alaundo’s prophecy reveals their true heritage as a Bhaalspawn, intertwining their fate with that of the god of murder. This revelation, coupled with a life-altering letter, sets the stage for a perilous path filled with shadows and death, marking a pivotal moment in their quest for identity and power.

The story goes round, with the team landing at Candlekeep. You are getting closer to the confrontation with the leaders of the Iron Throne. The path wasn’t easy. Old friends behaved strangely, and you knew that there was danger within the once safe walls. Emissaries of the merchant organization waited on one of the upper floors. On your way up, you came across the sage Alaundo’s prophecy about Bhaal’s plan, his descendants and his return. You also found a letter that completely changed your life. Turns out you are the descendant of Bhaal. You have the blood of a god. Hence the dreams. And the death that follows your every step. And that was just the beginning of the path made of dead bodies.

Before you finally get upstairs, you meet the mysterious Koveras, who pretended to be Gorion’s friend. He expressed regret for his loss and gave you a ring. Upstairs, you met the leader of the Throne, Rieltar. This is one of those encounters that could have ended in various ways. After confessing to the guild master that you were the ones who thwarted their plans – you could have threaten each other and walked away – or start a fight. Either way, when you tried to leave this place, you were charged with murder and placed in custody.

You were saved by Tethtoril, one of the tutors of Candlekeep. He made you realize that Rieltar’s adoptive son, Sarevok – the same one who pretended to be Koveras – was behind all of this. He opened a secret passage to a labyrinth built under the library. There you faced various nightmares like Basilisks, doppelgangers impersonating Gorion or Elminster, as well as another mercenary assassin. Eventually, however, you found the exit.

Chapter 7

In Chapter 7, the protagonist arrives in Baldur’s Gate, navigating through the city’s dangers while evading the Flaming Fist patrols. Upon reaching Prince Eltan’s residence, they discover he has been poisoned, and the attending physician is implicated in a plot to hasten his demise. Acting swiftly, the protagonist saves Eltan and uncovers critical evidence linking Sarevok to a conspiracy aimed at usurping power in Baldur’s Gate. As tensions rise, the protagonist witnesses a shocking murder during a celebration, forcing them to flee and confront the growing threats lurking in the shadows of the city.

The next direction seemed obvious – Baldur’s Gate. You got there while evading Flaming Fist patrols. However, you were detected in the city itself. However, you got the chance of running an investigation. You have reached the home of Prince Eltan, who has been poisoned. You discovered that the doctor who was looking after him was actually just trying to hasten his death. Fortunately, you acted in time. You also found evidence incriminating Sarevok, who… was preparing to become the new prince of Baldur’s Gate and sit on the Council ofThree. The assassins lurking in the sewers had an invitation to the coronation.

You barged into the ceremony, and showed the evidence in front of everyone. You also learn that Sarevok has killed Gorion – he arrived at the ceremony in his characteristic armor. After the battle, Sarevok was saved by his old master. They both teleported somewhere. You found your way to his hideout, the Temple of Bhaal, located deep beneath the city. That’s where the final confrontation took place.

It turns out that Sarevok is your half-brother, a Bhaal’s child, who was much more accepting of his father’s legacy. He planned to drown the Sword Coast in blood in order to achieve ascension and become the new Lord of Murder. Your efforts have thwarted his plans. Now all it was left to do was to fight and finish the job. The battle was demanding – Sarevok wasn’t alone. However, eventually, he fell mortally wounded. You became heroes of the city. But that was just the beginning of the problems…

Plot summary of the expansions

The expansions of Baldur’s Gate delve deeper into the rich narrative established in the original game, continuing the protagonist’s journey through the tumultuous world of Faerûn. In Baldur’s Gate: Siege of Dragonspear, players confront a new threat led by Caelar Argent, who seeks to challenge the demon Belhifet. As the protagonist navigates political intrigue and battles against dark forces, they are ultimately framed for murder, leading to a series of events that culminate in their capture and subsequent escape from the clutches of the enigmatic mage Irenicus in Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn. This sequel explores themes of identity and power, revealing that both the protagonist and their companion Imoen are Bhaalspawn, descendants of the Lord of Murder. The narrative culminates in a climactic confrontation with Irenicus, as players must navigate moral choices that determine their fate and legacy within this epic saga. The final expansion, Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal, sees the protagonist facing off against other Bhaalspawn while grappling with their divine heritage and the implications of their lineage.

Tales from Sword Coast

These are several additional side adventures that take place before the end of the seventh chapter. They have no impact on the ending. However, they provide some interesting challenges and some good loot. During them, you will confront eccentric mages, hunt werewolves or finally discover the secrets of a dwarf fortress.

Siege of Dragonspear

This expansion was created and released by Beamdog. It serves as the missing link between the two parts of Baldur’s Gate, introduces a new antagonist, and shows how the Baldur’s Gate hero ended up in a mysterious dungeon far from home. It tells the story of our hero’s fight with Caelar, a revolutionary who managed to gather followers, now marching to fix the world. Our main causes of joining the battle were the assassins sent after us and Imoen’s injuries. What’s more, the whole is being watched by a mysterious, powerful mage who seems to be testing ours and Caelar’s abilities.

It is eventually revealed that Caelar wanted to free a close family member imprisoned in hell by the demon Belhifet (the main antagonist of Icewind Dale) because of a sin the woman committed in the past. Bhaal’s child defeats the demon, frees the prisoner, and Caelar can sacrifice herself to stay in hell and guard the passage to Faerun. During the celebration, our hero witnesses the murder of the daughter of one of the princes of Baldur’s Gate. We are framed by the mysterious wizard. Bhaal’s child is forced to flee. After that, we and our faithful companions are ambushed.

What are the main conflicts in Baldur’s Gate

In Baldur’s Gate, the narrative is rich with complex conflicts that shape the destinies of its characters and the fate of the regions they inhabit. Here are the main conflicts that drive the story:

Major Conflicts

1. Bhaalspawn Legacy: The protagonist discovers they are a child of Bhaal, the God of Murder, which sets off a personal conflict involving their identity and destiny. This legacy leads to a struggle against other Bhaalspawn, particularly Sarevok, who seeks to ascend to godhood through chaos and murder, culminating in a dramatic confrontation between them.
2. Iron Throne Conspiracy: The Iron Throne, a mercenary group, orchestrates political turmoil in Baldur’s Gate, manipulating events to gain power. The protagonist must navigate this web of intrigue, uncovering plots that threaten the stability of the city and its leadership.
3. Cult vs. Good: The Cult of the Absolute emerges as a significant antagonist, clashing with forces like the Harpers, who strive to protect the Sword Coast from evil influences. This conflict embodies the classic battle between good and evil, with moral choices impacting the outcome.
4. Criminal Underworld Rivalry: The rivalry between criminal organizations, notably the Zhentarim and the local Guild, creates tension in Baldur’s Gate’s underbelly. Players can choose sides in this power struggle, influencing the future of crime in the city.
5. Illithid vs. Githyanki War: An ancient conflict between two formidable races—Mind Flayers (Illithids) and Githyanki—plays out in the background, affecting various factions and characters within the game. This ongoing war adds another layer of complexity to the protagonist’s journey.
6. Druidic Tensions: In Baldur’s Gate 3, local druids face off against tiefling refugees over control of the Emerald Grove, showcasing themes of xenophobia and survival amidst external threats from cultists.

These conflicts intertwine throughout the series, providing players with rich storytelling opportunities and moral dilemmas that shape their journey through the Forgotten Realms.

What are the key differences between the conflicts in Baldur’s Gate and Baldur’s Gate 3

The conflicts in Baldur’s Gate and Baldur’s Gate 3 differ significantly in their themes, complexity, and player interactions. Here are the key distinctions:

Key Differences in Conflicts

1. Nature of Conflicts:
   • Baldur’s Gate primarily revolves around grand, overarching conflicts such as the struggle against the Bhaalspawn legacy, the Iron Throne’s machinations, and the battle between good and evil factions. The conflicts are often rooted in political intrigue and personal destinies that intertwine with larger narratives.
   • In contrast, Baldur’s Gate 3 features more localized and personal conflicts, such as the clash between Tiefling refugees and Shadow Druids over the fate of the Emerald Grove. The game emphasizes moral choices that directly impact specific groups rather than just overarching narratives.
2. Character Dynamics:
   • In the original Baldur’s Gate, character conflicts often arise from clear moral alignments—good versus evil—leading to intense confrontations among party members based on their ideologies. For example, NPCs frequently oppose each other due to their inherent moral standings.
   • Conversely, Baldur’s Gate 3 adopts a more nuanced approach where character conflicts are less about ideological differences and more about personal objectives and relationships. Party members may have their own goals but rarely oppose each other in significant ways, fostering a more cooperative atmosphere despite individual quests.
3. Resolution of Conflicts:
   • In Baldur’s Gate, conflicts often culminate in decisive battles or confrontations that resolve larger story arcs, such as defeating Sarevok or dismantling the Iron Throne’s influence.
   • In Baldur’s Gate 3, players have multiple avenues to resolve conflicts, often through dialogue choices that can lead to various outcomes without necessarily resulting in violence. The game encourages players to navigate moral dilemmas that can affect relationships and alliances within the party.
4. Tone and Atmosphere:
   • The tone of the original game is darker and more serious, reflecting its themes of betrayal, murder, and destiny.
   • Baldur’s Gate 3, while still dealing with serious themes, incorporates a lighter, more irreverent tone, allowing for humor and levity even amidst dire situations. This tonal shift influences how characters interact with each other and how conflicts are presented.

These differences highlight how both games approach storytelling and conflict resolution within the rich tapestry of the Forgotten Realms universe, offering players distinct experiences while maintaining a connection to their shared lore.