Baldur's Gate: Siege of Dragonspear

 PC
  • Publisher: Beamdog
  • Release Date: Mar 31, 2016
User Score
3.8

Generally unfavorable reviews- based on 577 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 194 out of 577
  2. Mixed: 30 out of 577
  3. Negative: 353 out of 577

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  1. roachtbp
    Apr 3, 2016
    10
    Beamdog did what some doubted was possible - made a new Baldur's Gate game that lives up to the originals in every respect - great new characters, a story that surpasses the story of the originals (in my opinion), and the same game play we love (with significant improvements). The narrative bridges the gap between BG1 and BG2 amazingly. It is very well written and a pleasure to play!!!Beamdog did what some doubted was possible - made a new Baldur's Gate game that lives up to the originals in every respect - great new characters, a story that surpasses the story of the originals (in my opinion), and the same game play we love (with significant improvements). The narrative bridges the gap between BG1 and BG2 amazingly. It is very well written and a pleasure to play!!! BG fans are in luck!!!… Expand
  2. Borgratz
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    Coming back to this after a decade, I felt like I had never left! It has the charm of the original, the systems of the original and if you are simply looking for more Baldurs Gate (and who isnt?) this is the thing for you!
  3. Mercator360
    Apr 6, 2016
    10
    Let me begin by saying that this a good game, in fact it is a very good game. Beamdog deserves a lot of praise for bringing a welcome addition to the Baldurs Gate Lore. The game does have some bugs but the company's track records indicate that they will be fixed in due time.

    Unfortunately a lot of reviewers are giving this game low scores because they disagree with the inclusion of a    Let me begin by saying that this a good game, in fact it is a very good game. Beamdog deserves a lot of praise for bringing a welcome addition to the Baldurs Gate Lore. The game does have some bugs but the company's track records indicate that they will be fixed in due time.

    Unfortunately a lot of reviewers are giving this game low scores because they disagree with the inclusion of a trans-gendered character and an emphasis on social justice in the story and dialog. Why is this bad or perceived as such? I believe you have a lot of people that consider the exercise of free expression by others an imposition on their way of life. But this is a game and an art-form designed to tackle modern problems and current issues as part of the overall story and lore of the game. Bioware itself was a leader in creating characters that were outside the mainstream at the time the game was made. This is in part what made them legendary developers. Unfortunately we have an active group of people who decry what they see as political correctness in the game media, what they in fact decry and can not stand is a society that embraces all. As I read their reviews I think to myself who can be against social justice? These reviewers scream about their freedom being infringed by having to deal with subjects and characters that challenge their world view. They in fact want to pigeonhole storytellers and developers, that is in itself a form of the same political correctness this gamer's decry . That is not what game developing as an art form should strive to be or be intimidated into becoming. The whole point of this art form is to open the world to all points or view, to create characters and worlds that challenge us and our imaginations. It should not bow down to those who want to restrict storytelling to the four corners of their small worlds. If you can not handle a character in an RPG do not talk to them or include them in your party, move on, enjoy the rest of the story. If your sensibilities are so assaulted try another game. I hope that the developers do not bow down to these internet bullies and produce the story and the game they want to create. I hope that the market will reward their courage and creativity.

    To most gamer's reading this review this is a game that deserves your support. It is a welcome addition to the Baldurs Gate saga. It has some bugs but the developer has a track record of fixing those. This game is worth your time and money.    … Expand
  4. EarX
    Apr 17, 2016
    10
    It's an expansion I never thought would have happened until I stumbled upon it a couple of weeks ago, and before trying it I wasn't even sure it would be a good thing. Sometimes old classics are best left in the past. Lucky thing that's not the case here. Clunky UI and dated sprite renders aside, Beamdog has done a great job with this, not least in subtly modernizing the experience for aIt's an expansion I never thought would have happened until I stumbled upon it a couple of weeks ago, and before trying it I wasn't even sure it would be a good thing. Sometimes old classics are best left in the past. Lucky thing that's not the case here. Clunky UI and dated sprite renders aside, Beamdog has done a great job with this, not least in subtly modernizing the experience for a modern audience.

    The game flows well and has good pacing, at the price of being somewhat linear. Though not as linear as you might fear, there is still an assortment of optional sub-quests and areas to explore within each chapter. More streamlined than the originals in other words, for good or ill. The writing, perhaps more important than anything else in any Baldur's Gate game, is very good and fits seamlessly with the originals. I was particularly impressed by how well they managed to flesh out the bare-bones NPC's from vanilla BG1, being both consistent and toning down some annoying aspects. I no longer feel the urge to send Dynaheir and Khalid to horrible deaths first chance I get, but they don't feel at odds with their original portrayals either. Very nice.

    So that's it for the game itself, well worth the money if you like Baldur's Gate or just enjoy quality D&D RPG's in general. There's this controversy going on about SJW and GG and such. I'll just point out that there's very little of any kind of social agenda in the game itself, at least that I could see. About 30 seconds of dialogue that I would have missed entirely if I hadn't been aware of it beforehand. If that's enough to ruin the *more than 30 hours of fun* that is the rest of the game for you then... steer clear I guess? You'll be missing out big-time though, just saying...    … Expand
  5. fearless0
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    I enjoyed getting a chance to play a new infinity engine game. New areas with enhanced background animations, lots of npcs on screen at the same time, familiar voice actors, music that fits with the style of game, enhanced ui with features that can be turned on/off depending on your preference. The new engine is great. Bring on BGIII. Most of the 0 score reviews have no place here as theI enjoyed getting a chance to play a new infinity engine game. New areas with enhanced background animations, lots of npcs on screen at the same time, familiar voice actors, music that fits with the style of game, enhanced ui with features that can be turned on/off depending on your preference. The new engine is great. Bring on BGIII. Most of the 0 score reviews have no place here as the majority of them don't mention anything about the game, only some beef people have and of course these people would rather see the world burn than add constructive critcism about the game. Enjoy the game for what it is - a chance to play another BG game, long may it continue and heres hoping it leads to a BGIII… Expand
  6. purudaya
    Apr 3, 2016
    10
    If you enjoyed the Baldur's gate series, this expansion marks a welcome return - it's well written, highly polished, innovative, and uses voice actors from the original 1998 series. Great combat, awesome narrative, and roughly 30 hours of solid gameplay - this is Baldur's Gate in every sense of the word.

    Sadly, some people are giving 0 ratings because of a *single line* of optional LGBT    If you enjoyed the Baldur's gate series, this expansion marks a welcome return - it's well written, highly polished, innovative, and uses voice actors from the original 1998 series. Great combat, awesome narrative, and roughly 30 hours of solid gameplay - this is Baldur's Gate in every sense of the word.

    Sadly, some people are giving 0 ratings because of a *single line* of optional LGBT friendly text in a game filled with mountains of dialogue. Most of these people haven't even played Siege of Dragonspear and any suggestions that the game "preaches" or "forces" heavy handed messaging are completely inaccurate. Decide for yourself and don't let other's people's distortions deter you from buying a genuinely wonderful game.

    And if you liked the game, leave a review!    … Expand
  7. SpectralTime
    Jun 2, 2016
    10
    I am gonna level with you. I'm still playing through the "Baldur's Gate" portion of the game, with a new character, and I can review that part. It's pretty good. I like the new UI, for the most part, and the new options. Baldur's Gate will always be inferior to its sequel, but it's a good, technically-proficient translation.

    But it's not a ten. That ten's there out of spite, for    I am gonna level with you. I'm still playing through the "Baldur's Gate" portion of the game, with a new character, and I can review that part. It's pretty good. I like the new UI, for the most part, and the new options. Baldur's Gate will always be inferior to its sequel, but it's a good, technically-proficient translation.

    But it's not a ten. That ten's there out of spite, for all the people making this game the next battlefield in their pointless little war.

    Screw all of you.    … Expand
  8. whateverlemur
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    while there are difficulties with bugs and quite ugly looking UI (introduced to other games through 2.0 patch), i seriously think the game is quite good. Keep in mind that the original BG saga while great (and one of my personal favourite games) was no writing masterpiece, so this expansion follows in this vein at least.

    but bothers me most is people claiming LGBTQ characters contradict    while there are difficulties with bugs and quite ugly looking UI (introduced to other games through 2.0 patch), i seriously think the game is quite good. Keep in mind that the original BG saga while great (and one of my personal favourite games) was no writing masterpiece, so this expansion follows in this vein at least.

    but bothers me most is people claiming LGBTQ characters contradict lore (which is not true at all, wizards of the coast themselves acknowledge and detail their existence), or that medieval fantasy also does not support it. Implying that game that has talking dragons, evils of all sort, angels and all sort of crazy and morally questionable creatures and actions, cannot support transgendered, gay lesbian or whatever character. I wonder if the so called SJW-ism truly that worse than it's alternative- oppression and diversity?

    So yes, the game has it's amount of problems, but LGBTQ characters are definitely not one of them    … Expand
  9. ellimar188
    Apr 5, 2016
    10
    Long story short: I am having a great time with Baldur's Gate, Siege of Dragonspear (SoD). Congratulations to Beam Dog on creating a very enjoyable game and a worthy addition to the Baldur's Gate series! Please note that I have not yet finished the game, nor have I tried the multiplayer. Also, after my actual review of SoD I will take some time to comment on the significant controversyLong story short: I am having a great time with Baldur's Gate, Siege of Dragonspear (SoD). Congratulations to Beam Dog on creating a very enjoyable game and a worthy addition to the Baldur's Gate series! Please note that I have not yet finished the game, nor have I tried the multiplayer. Also, after my actual review of SoD I will take some time to comment on the significant controversy surrounding the inclusion of a trans-gender character and the modification of an existing character. I feel like this game has been getting a lot of unwarranted criticism and I hope to bring up a few points in its defence. But, first, my thoughts on the game itself:

    Combat in SoD is pretty much the same as it has always been in IE games: both very enjoyable and at times rather difficult. Personally, I love the turn-based , isometric combat and I am having a great time with SoD in this regard. “Swords, not words!” as Minsc would say! So, if you liked the combat in BG 1 and 2, then you will probably enjoy combat in SoD. Although I also like how, if I want to, I can talk my way out of certain fights. I actually managed to resolve a siege by tricking the enemy commander into believing that my faction was giving up our supplies (little did he know that we were in the process of destroying them behind his back). Moreover, Beam Dog has included the Story Mode option (added in Icewind Dale Enhanced Edition), which is, in my opinion, a great addition. Story Mode essentially makes your characters nearly impossible to kill and much more effective in combat. I think it will allow newer players to ease into the IE experience, and it is also a good way to get through particularly challenging encounters. I have played both BG1 and BG2 and I still occasionally use Story Mode!

    A notable difference between SoD and BG1/2 is that the former does not place as much of an emphasis on exploring as the latter did. While the areas in SoD are just as large as those in the original and feel a lot more lively (there are a lot more NPCs running around, and I really feel like I am a part of a living world), the game forces you on a rather linear path towards your ultimate destination. I can see how this might bother some people. I, however, don't really mind: I like that the game has a sense of urgency that BG1 did not have (BG2 did, but also allowed you to explore, kind of the best of both worlds). Furthermore, I think it makes sense, given the events unfolding in SoD's story, that you are unable to wander to your heart's content. The people of Baldur's Gate are counting on your character to help lead them in defence of the Sword Coast. I doubt that they would welcome any random excursions into the wild!

    I am finding the story and writing in SoD very interesting. I am especially enjoying my character's encounters with the Hooded figure (we all know who he is!). The narrative seems fairly personal, as the antagonist, Caelar Argent, also possess partly divine blood. I find her motivation for doing what she is doing both interesting and, in a way, relatable: she is not a one dimensional antagonist. And, as I have already mentioned, the story has a sense of urgency that has kept me extremely invested thus far. The writing itself is pretty good. I mean, it is not the same calibre as something like The Witcher 3 (which is one of the best games that I have EVER experienced), but dialogue options are generally good, and the characters who I have interacted with are believable and interesting. I sincerely do not understand all of the fuss over SoD's writing. Also, I LOVE the voice overs! Minsc is even better when he is fully voiced!

    From a technical standpoint, I like the addition of grey-scale pausing and highlighted sprites. Both are helpful, as tracking exactly what is going on during combat can become difficult in IE games. However, you can disable these options if you want to play it classic. A lot of people have been complaining about game-breaking bugs, but I have yet to encounter any. I think it is important to remember that bugs are common with nearly every new game release. I mean, Bethesda (whose games I enjoy) consistently releases games with major bugs. So does Blizzard (again, whose games I also enjoy). I do not understand why people are so angry with SoD in particular.

    That is the end of my actual review of SoD. It has been a great experience for me so far! However, I want to address the controversy around the inclusion of a trans-gender character and the alleged LGBT/SJW “agenda” and “propaganda” present in the game. I think that these accusations are absolutely ridiculous. Unless by “agenda” and “propaganda” people mean the message that LGBT people and women are equal to men in all ethically relevant respects. But if this is what is meant by those terms, what is the issue? Yes, there is a trans-gender character in the game. Yes, one character was modified because Beam Dog felt that BioWare had written a character who was no longer acceptable by contemporary standards. Oh, God forbid that we make our games more inclusive! Being nicer to people is SUCH a burden! I hope that my sarcasm is obvious for those who, clearly, do not know how to formulate a coherent thought or argument. And before anyone asks, I am a white, heterosexual male.

    Now, to those who object to the inclusion of real-world social problems (or things just related to social-problems, as SoD merely INCLUDES a trans-gendered person) in fantasy video games/seetings, particularly Baldur's Gate and the Forgotten Realms, I have two responses. First of all, one of the major themes in what is likely THE MOST POPULAR series of Forgotten Realms novels is racism and dealing with prejudiced attitudes. I am, of course, referring to the Legend of Drizzt series, written by R.A. Salvatore. Second, one of the characters already in Baldur's Gate, Viconia DeVir, discusses at length the problems that she deals with due to her race. So it is not as if real-world social problems do not appear in the Forgotten Realms. Furthermore, I think that games (and any story-telling medium, for that matter) are better off for including/addressing these sorts of issues. Without them, I, personally, am not as engaged in the game. If I wanted to mindlessly go about killing things, I would play Call of Duty, NOT an RPG. I enjoy games that make me think, which force me to consider issues which apply to my own life. Fair enough if you do not, I suppose, but perhaps you should simply play a different game (or series for that matter).

    Finally, I find it ironic that changes and inclusions in video games which are deemed “too politically correct” by the Gamer Gate bro crowd result in accusations that developers are catering to people who are too easily insulted or sensitive: the people in this minority are the only ones complaining or feeling insulted. It is like developers cannot even mention certain social issues or include certain people (in this case, LGBT people) in their games without certain gamers taking extreme insult. Please, look yourselves in the mirror before you claim that other people are the problem.

    To everyone considering buying SoD: don't be deterred by the overwhelming prejudism of an extremely vocal minority of people! I am having a great time with the game. Taste is, ultimately, subjective, but the inclusion of a trans-gender character and the modification of an existing character do not seem like reasons to give this game a 0. I would give SoD something like an 8/10, but I am giving it a 10 to help counter the hate the game has been getting.    … Expand
  10. TheSnarkyShaman
    Apr 7, 2016
    10
    So I'm about ten hours in and I'm pleasantly surprised. A LARGE portion of the original voice cast are back in enriched roles that, for the most part, are true to character or expand on a one dimensional concept from Baldurs Gate 1. The world has gotten an ambience upgrade. The main antagonist is nuanced and convincing. Generally, I feel like it flows naturally as part of the Baldurs GateSo I'm about ten hours in and I'm pleasantly surprised. A LARGE portion of the original voice cast are back in enriched roles that, for the most part, are true to character or expand on a one dimensional concept from Baldurs Gate 1. The world has gotten an ambience upgrade. The main antagonist is nuanced and convincing. Generally, I feel like it flows naturally as part of the Baldurs Gate games and is a nice bridge. Combat is the same as the old games but with some extra bits thrown in (see again the bigger fights, more enemies on screen) and some new abilities to play with. Anyone who enjoyed the originals should enjoy this.

    It would be remiss of me not to mention the current drama, so let me be clear. There is a minor side character who, after TWO OPTIONAL dialogue prompts by the player, will tell you she is trans. The backlash is, as usual, about 'gamergate' types taking umbrage at that and (at this point) realising that the general populace don't support that and so shifting their criticisms to 'bad writing' (again, it's one optional line of dialogue).

    But don't take my word for it. Don't take their word for it. If you consider yourself a reasonable and autonomously thinking individual, gauge whether you can handle such an assault of 'SJW' values and just try the game yourself. If you're a fan of old school isometric RPG's and Baldurs Gate in particular, chances are you'll get some enjoyment out of this, or an integral new part of an old series at best. As it stands, I'm having a great time with it.    … Expand
  11. Augus1000
    Apr 3, 2016
    10
    this game is good i didnt expect that its so well written and its a fun game bring me back to my childhood. i dont care for the people that care too much with things that dont do anything to the main story per example the people who are complaining about a no sense, who cares that the female npcs are stronger than the ones in bg1 and bg2 i buy this game for a whole experience not forthis game is good i didnt expect that its so well written and its a fun game bring me back to my childhood. i dont care for the people that care too much with things that dont do anything to the main story per example the people who are complaining about a no sense, who cares that the female npcs are stronger than the ones in bg1 and bg2 i buy this game for a whole experience not for kiddos who compliant about nothing its ridiculous im a man and i want this characters in my games, if you dont want a social improvement in you game dont buy it, if you think that this is a new century buy it. Im a 31 years old and i know how to discern about a good and a bad game.… Expand
  12. masterfox3000
    May 18, 2016
    10
    Loved the inclusion of a transgender character, especially considering Black Isle always did have progressive writing especially being known to have the fallout series with a lot of gay characters.
  13. Jlaw1988
    Apr 3, 2016
    10
    Okay lets get the most positive aspects out the way first: Its an expansion to a 17 year old game, and fits in perfectly. So often I was playing through this expansion with the exact same feeling as playing the originals all those years ago. The technical upgrades are self evident and dont need explaining, as after 17 years there was bound to be. There are some technical hiccups here andOkay lets get the most positive aspects out the way first: Its an expansion to a 17 year old game, and fits in perfectly. So often I was playing through this expansion with the exact same feeling as playing the originals all those years ago. The technical upgrades are self evident and dont need explaining, as after 17 years there was bound to be. There are some technical hiccups here and there but over the coming weeks and months I expect to see them stomped out. However I should point out that in about 30+ hours playing time I personally have yet to encounter anything game breaking or indeed little more series than a single crash to desktop.

    Beamdog have wrote a fun, engaging story and while its a little linear it IS an expansion pack, although with the amount of effort put in it sure as hell doesnt feel like it. Id most definitely put it up against Throne of Bhaal anyday to say the least and would go a step further in that in some areas it gives BG1 and Shadows of Amn a run for their money.

    Great to have so many old favourite characters back with their original voices.

    I just cant overstate how pleased I am with the work thats gone into this to make a worthy successor. I only hope Beamdog release some additional BG2 content. With the great improvements made and the fantastic job on the writing front it would be a travesty for them not to.

    Also finally Ill end on the biggest disappointment surrounding this game with sadly is of no fault of its own, It seems some people have taken offence to (no exaggeration) 30 seconds worth of content and decided to declare some kind of silly war on this game. I get annoyed by excessive "social justicey" nonsense as much as the next person but i can honestly say anyone who thinks this game is forcing such nonsense on anybody and is trying to attack it should seriously examine their priorities in life.

    If anyone thinks its worth trying to smear years of hard work thats gone into this game because they find the tiniest snippet not to their tastes - well I dont need to worry, Im sure real gamers out their know to discard their silly opinions.

    This is expansion is great and is Baldurs Gate in every sense of the word and as someone who started in 1998 I cant express how happy that makes me.    … Expand
  14. mikkle
    Apr 3, 2016
    10
    Great in terms of content, fits in well with the original story, plus gives a nice refreshing feel. I like the new interface and content additions. Bug were and always will be during game releases, Beamdog is a small company so give them a break.
  15. Ashkala
    Apr 3, 2016
    10
    Beautiful locations and art. Voice actors are top notch even after all these years they still manage to nail their performances of old. Personally I love the new UI. Pay no attention to the nonsense about "Gender politics" and such, it's overblown foolishness. A fitting expansion to one of the great series in recent memory. I highly recommend it.
  16. Irenicus218
    Apr 3, 2016
    10
    For all of those who are wondering whether to buy SoD: go to youtube and watch someone play it. Do not listen to those who are loudest at the moment. The game in its current state has some bugs (yet minor), otherwise it is great fun if you loved the original games.

    The cry about 'politics being shoe-horned' into the game concerns one minor npc and a single line of text. I do not care.    For all of those who are wondering whether to buy SoD: go to youtube and watch someone play it. Do not listen to those who are loudest at the moment. The game in its current state has some bugs (yet minor), otherwise it is great fun if you loved the original games.

    The cry about 'politics being shoe-horned' into the game concerns one minor npc and a single line of text. I do not care. Even if you think transgender should not be part of a fantasy game, this is not a theme that you will encounter all through the game. Negative reviewers blow it out of proportion big time at the moment.

    Make up your own mind and do not simply listen to those hating on Beamdog right now.    … Expand
  17. Aiureah
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    Midway through and I love it. Well designed and written it makes you want a Baldur's Gate 3. Do not believe the negative reviews, this game delivers as it promised.
  18. droogish
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    Really good DLC expansion for the first BGEE game.

    Refactoring to produce such a polished end-result is a testament to the developers. I say well done sirs!

    I'm heading in with an Elf Ranger...I suspect there will be be many bodies full of arrows by the end of this...
  19. GiorgosM
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    I just finished the game and I have to admit I was blown away with it. I purchased it hoping for a nostalgia trip, hearing 17 year old characters come back to life. The game was so much more than that. The story was awesome, the transition from the game to BG2 feels good, and all the new characters are well written. All these people giving zeros, I am wondering have you even played the game?
  20. JohnMet
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    Thank you beamdog for an awesome game! Much more satisfying and creative content than on the Enhanced Edition. All your hard work seems to have payed off! Now time for BG3!
  21. sffrrrom
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    I would personally rate the expansion about an 8 for the following reasons:

    - Some bugs, more or less to be expected given how they are trying to push such an old engine, and a few less excusable ones, like multiplayer still functioning very poorly, if at all. - An interesting story, writing that largely exceeds the quality of BGI but probably falls short of BGII. - Voice work by    I would personally rate the expansion about an 8 for the following reasons:

    - Some bugs, more or less to be expected given how they are trying to push such an old engine, and a few less excusable ones, like multiplayer still functioning very poorly, if at all.

    - An interesting story, writing that largely exceeds the quality of BGI but probably falls short of BGII.

    - Voice work by many of the original voice actors, which was a pleasure, but voice acting by others also varies dramatically in quality.

    - Gameplay which generally is fun, with some very cool ambitious aspects, such as more involved group battles involving NPCs, but which also suffers at times from that same ambition. I cannot stress enough that the engine is really pushed to its limits here; sometimes it bends, and sometimes it breaks. Easy enough for a veteran of the series to deal with, much more difficult for new players.

    However, many of the reviews the expansion has received to date do not discuss the quality of the product, but focus only on several minor heavily politicized issues. Because I'd like to see more installments for this franchise, and because I don't approve of scoring a game poorly simply because of political issues, which I think should be left out of escapist entertainment (which applies to both the developers and reviewers), I have adjusted my score to a 10, since that seems the only way to adequately contribute to a more appropriate score for the actual product, rather than people's political battles.    … Expand
  22. HamsterJustice
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    I loved playing this game. I'm happy they brought back the original voice actors although I'm a little sad they couldn't find the actress who voiced Jaheira. It felt like the old Baldur's Gate that I played in the late 90's and early 2000's. I enjoyed the new music especially the track "Assault on Dragonspear", that one is especially awesome. The new backgrounds were rendered well, I'mI loved playing this game. I'm happy they brought back the original voice actors although I'm a little sad they couldn't find the actress who voiced Jaheira. It felt like the old Baldur's Gate that I played in the late 90's and early 2000's. I enjoyed the new music especially the track "Assault on Dragonspear", that one is especially awesome. The new backgrounds were rendered well, I'm sure the concept artists had fun creating them and I liked the new lighting effects.

    As far as the story is concerned, I enjoyed it although it is not as free as Baldur's Gate one or two where you could stray away from the main quest to explore other areas. It felt much more like Throne of Bhaal where the party was on a one-way confrontation with Melissan and there was not very many areas to explore that did not have to do with the main quest. It is my main criticism with the story for both Throne of Bhaal and Siege of Dragonspear although I still enjoyed them both immensely.

    The gameplay is just as fun as the original game and it looks like the AI for the characters has changed. Dynaheir and Jaheira would cast defensive and offensive spells without being told too. I think this is part of the default script they follow - I decided to leave it on as I progressed through the game. It was fun to see Dynaheir blast foes with magic missile without me clicking on her.

    I loved the new dialogue from Minsc, Dynaheir, Imoen and the Hooded Man (you know who). Minsc's new lines are hilarious and the Hooded Man's lines were great. I did not add Viconia to the group since I wanted to used Jaheira (despite the fact they kept her silent). On my second play through I will add Viconia since I'm curious of the new things she will say.

    As far as bugs are concerned, I did not encounter many except for one after meeting Khalid that made the game crash.

    Overall I found the game to be an enjoyable experience especially if you enjoy old-school rpgs. A good bargain for a twenty dollar game!    … Expand
  23. Verminous_Scumm
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    A great addition to the Baldur's Gate series. Great story, characters and environment. I really like the new Shaman Class as well, it's a lot more fun to play than I had thought it would be. I would recommend this game for anybody that enjoys isometric rpgs.
  24. Arcater
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    I have been playing RPGs from the early Bard's Tale on Apple II+. Baldurs Gate and BG2 were amongst my favorites. Siege of Dragonspear captures all this excitement and delivers a thrilling story without the bugs which are so common at other games. Highly recommended and a real gem for any player!
  25. Karl_Martell
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    Siege of dragonspear ist the best expansion to the original saga i can imagine.
    From the very beginning of the story i got in the perfect "baldurs gate feeling" i enjoyed so much since my first runthrough back in 1998.
    The new areas are well designed and fit in perfectly with the existing ones. The new additions like new ui, new voiceovers, new effects like animated lava etc. add new    Siege of dragonspear ist the best expansion to the original saga i can imagine.
    From the very beginning of the story i got in the perfect "baldurs gate feeling" i enjoyed so much since my first runthrough back in 1998.
    The new areas are well designed and fit in perfectly with the existing ones. The new additions like new ui, new voiceovers, new effects like animated lava etc. add new flavours without pushing the game too far from its ancestor. The story and writing is great, with a lot of realmslore and a lot of own ideas as well added to the storyline. The new npc are all well written and good additions, but the main reason for me playing SoD was exploring new dungeons and slaying new foes with my old buddies like jaheira, khalid and imoen.
    So far, i didn't encounter any major bugs during my walkthrough.    … Expand
  26. Toronado
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    As a fan who has been waiting for a new Baldur's Gate game for the past 15 years, I was excited about the release of "Siege of Dragonspear." I was concerned that the writing would be sub-par compared to the original games but I must say I was not disappointed. It fits perfectly into the franchise and the changes made to the gameplay were great additions. Still getting used to the ShamanAs a fan who has been waiting for a new Baldur's Gate game for the past 15 years, I was excited about the release of "Siege of Dragonspear." I was concerned that the writing would be sub-par compared to the original games but I must say I was not disappointed. It fits perfectly into the franchise and the changes made to the gameplay were great additions. Still getting used to the Shaman class though.

    I feel like I'm finally getting to explore a hidden chapter in the lives of Gorion's Ward, Minsc, Safana, and so many other classic characters. Thanks Beamdog!    … Expand
  27. Harm81
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    Before release i was afraid, Beamdog wouldn't manage to catch the atmosphere of the former BG Games. But they did! SoD is very BG and very AD&D, and the storyline fits perfectly between BG1 and 2. Good Work!

    I'm a little disappointed about the missing German version, and some little bugs, but its way better than the release version of BG:EE and BG2:EE.
  28. Tashiro
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    I'm speaking out in support of the game, and Beamdog. In a fantasy game with dragons, beholders, and more, it is good to show that anyone has a place in this setting. Beamdog has done a brave thing, opening the fantasy setting to the LGBTQ community, and doing so has not 'ruined' the game. To those behind this game, "Thank you." :)
  29. joshroby
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    Absolutely awesome story experience and a true successor to the franchise. Loved every moment I experienced, and almost fell out of my chair when I encountered a trans character. Unspeakably heartwarming to see people like me portrayed in the games I play. Loved it! Want more!
  30. Bgilligan
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    This game is absolutely amazing. The dialogue is very in depth, catches your attention, keeps you engaged. I would recommend that anyone and everyone play this game. Siege of dragon spear is one of the most interactive, and exciting games I have played in a long time.
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Awards & Rankings

24
#24 Most Discussed PC Game of 2016
79
#79 Most Shared PC Game of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
  1. CD-Action
    Jun 29, 2016
    75
    Living up to such legacy seemed impossible but Beamdog understands Baldur’s Gate and created a game true to the original. Unfortunately along with the party you need to gather a band of patches, because bugs are crawling all over the place. [06/2016, p.40]
  2. Games.cz
    May 18, 2016
    70
    Decent expansion to the classic RPG, which -in addition to the inevitable technical limitations- suffers mainly due to the uneven quality of the script. All in all, it is a very good excuse to once again venture into the world of Faerûn.
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  3. Pelit (Finland)
    May 9, 2016
    80
    Beamdog’s expansion embraces both the past and the present. The adventure is inconsistent, ragged and the script could be a lot better, but at its best Siege of Dragonspear captures the essence of Baldur’s Gate - even if fleetingly. [May 2016]
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