Considering the dearth of hardcore old school RPGs not only on both their home platform, PC, but hugely promising ones like consumer tablets, using the potential success of Beamdog’s upcoming revamp of the legendary CRPG franchise Baldur’s Gate as a springboard for development on other beloved series makes a lot of sense. The revival of such classic games could potentially breathe new life into the RPG genre, attracting both nostalgic players and new audiences who have yet to experience the depth and complexity of these titles.
The Potential of Icewind Dale
“The topic of Icewind Dale has come up a number of times,” Beamdog’s Trent Oster said. Icewind Dale, another beloved title from the golden age of CRPGs, offers a rich world filled with intricate lore and challenging gameplay. “If we were to do Icewind Dale we would likely use our codebase, so all classes and kits in ToB,” he added. This means that any potential remake or remaster would benefit from the advancements and improvements made in the Throne of Bhaal expansion, ensuring a more polished and expansive experience for players.
“We are interested, but first we need #bgee to succeed.” The success of Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition is crucial as it would provide the necessary financial and community support to justify further projects. Not my first choice, but still a welcome sign of things to come, as evidenced by the developer’s further comments. “If we were to do a #BG3 we would probably develop a new engine and tool path. Clipping map areas is not an ideal level art workflow.”
Future Prospects and Community Impact
The potential success of these revamps could lead to a renaissance for other classic RPGs. Titles like Planescape: Torment, Neverwinter Nights, and even lesser-known gems like Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura could see new life. This resurgence would not only preserve these games for future generations but also introduce them to a broader audience who may have missed out on their original releases.
Moreover, the community’s role in this revival cannot be understated. The passionate fanbase of these games often contributes mods, patches, and enhancements that keep the games alive long after their initial release. Beamdog’s engagement with the community, as seen through their active presence on platforms like Twitter, helps build a collaborative environment where fan feedback can directly influence development decisions.
For instance, the inclusion of modern quality-of-life features such as improved user interfaces, enhanced graphics, and better compatibility with contemporary hardware can make these old-school RPGs more accessible to today’s gamers. Additionally, the possibility of cross-platform play, especially with the rise of powerful consumer tablets, could further expand the reach of these games.
The potential revival of classic CRPGs like Baldur’s Gate and Icewind Dale by Beamdog is an exciting prospect for fans of the genre. By leveraging modern technology and community support, these games can be reintroduced to a new generation of players while preserving the elements that made them timeless classics. The success of these projects could pave the way for even more beloved titles to make a comeback, ensuring that the rich legacy of old-school RPGs continues to thrive.
Source Twitter
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