Baldur’s Gate: Classic RPGs Now Free to Claim
Key Takeaways
- Classic RPG Titles for Free: Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition and Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition are currently free for Amazon Prime subscribers on GOG, along with other notable games.
- Timed Celebration: This promotion aligns with Amazon’s upcoming video game-inspired anthology series, Secret Level, featuring titles like Baldur’s Gate and Neverwinter Nights.
- Enhanced Editions for Modern Players: These remastered versions offer updated graphics and expanded content, making it an excellent time for new and veteran players to explore the franchise’s roots.
The Baldur’s Gate franchise stands tall as one of the most iconic role-playing game (RPG) series in gaming history. The release of Baldur’s Gate 3 in 2023 reignited interest in this 20-year-old series, drawing millions of new fans to its rich Dungeons & Dragons-inspired world. But here’s the thing—many of these fans skipped the original games entirely. If you’re one of them, now’s your chance to catch up because the first two titles in the series, Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition and Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition, are available for free via Amazon Prime Gaming.
Let’s break it all down why these games matter, what makes them special, and how you can grab them before the offer ends.
Why Are Baldur’s Gate Games Suddenly Free?
This limited-time promotion isn’t just a random act of generosity. It’s part of Amazon’s lead-up to their new video game-themed anthology series, Secret Level, set to debut on December 10. This show promises to explore iconic titles from the gaming world, including Baldur’s Gate.
The franchise’s long-running association with the Dungeons & Dragons universe means its lore-rich stories and characters are ripe for adaptation. One confirmed element of Baldur’s Gate that will feature in Secret Level is Tiamat, a powerful deity known to fans of the series. While specifics are still under wraps, the show has sparked renewed excitement around these classic games.
What Are the Enhanced Editions?
If you’re worried about diving into decades-old games, don’t be. Both Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition and Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition are remastered versions, optimized for modern platforms with updated graphics, quality-of-life improvements, and bonus content.
Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition Highlights
This remaster includes the original game alongside its acclaimed expansion packs. Here’s what you’ll get:
- The 60-Hour Main Campaign: Set off on an epic adventure across the Sword Coast, tackling intrigue, combat, and mystery.
- Tales of the Sword Coast: Explore iconic areas like Durlag’s Tower with expanded quests and stories.
- The Black Pits: A combat-focused side campaign where you battle monstrous foes in an arena setting.
- Additional Character Content: Help unique characters like Rasaad, the Sun Soul Monk, or Neera, the Wild Mage, in their personal quests.
Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition Highlights
The sequel continues the story with deeper narratives, refined combat, and more impactful choices. Some standout features include:
- Epic Storyline: Escape the clutches of the nefarious wizard Irenicus, navigate your destiny, and decide whether to embrace darkness or resist it.
- Companion Quests: Build relationships with party members and uncover their backstories through detailed personal missions.
- Expanded Content: Additional challenges and areas not included in the original release.
Other Games in the Prime Gaming Lineup
While Baldur’s Gate games steal the spotlight, other RPG gems are also free right now for Prime subscribers. These include:
- Neverwinter Nights: Enhanced Edition
Another Dungeons & Dragons classic from BioWare, this title offers expansive campaigns, a robust multiplayer mode, and user-created content. - The Outer Worlds
A space-faring RPG from Obsidian Entertainment that blends humor, choice-driven gameplay, and a vibrant universe. - Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine
Dive into the grim darkness of the Warhammer universe with this action-packed third-person shooter. - Spelunky
A roguelike platformer where every run feels unique due to its procedurally generated levels.
How to Claim Your Free Games
Getting your hands on these games is straightforward:
- Ensure you have an active Amazon Prime subscription.
- Visit the Prime Gaming website and locate the featured games.
- Claim the titles to receive GOG codes for redemption.
- Redeem the codes on the GOG platform, and the games are yours to keep forever.
Hurry this promotion runs until early 2025, but some additional games like Neverwinter Nights have a shorter availability window ending January 8.
Why Play the Original Baldur’s Gate Games?
You might wonder why you should revisit older games when modern titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 exist. Here’s why:
- Experience the Roots: These games set the standard for RPG storytelling, influencing titles like Dragon Age and Mass Effect.
- Rich D&D Lore: Explore a faithful adaptation of the Forgotten Realms universe, complete with iconic spells, monsters, and deities.
- Timeless Mechanics: While dated in appearance, the gameplay remains deeply engaging, offering tactical combat and meaningful choices.
FAQ
1. Do I need to play the first two games to enjoy Baldur’s Gate 3?
Not at all. Baldur’s Gate 3 is a standalone story, though knowledge of the earlier games adds depth to certain references.
2. What platforms support the Enhanced Editions?
Both titles are available on PC (via GOG) and modern consoles, making them accessible to a wide audience.
3. Is the promotion limited to specific regions?
The free games are tied to Amazon Prime Gaming, which is available in most regions where Amazon operates.
4. Are there multiplayer options in the Enhanced Editions?
Yes! Both games include multiplayer features, letting you team up with friends for cooperative adventures.
5. Can I still get the games if I’m on a free Prime trial?
Yes. As long as your Prime trial is active, you can claim the games and keep them permanently.
