Baldur's Gate 3 style RPG enters early access on Steam

A new RPG has launched into Steam’s early access, brought to us in part by one of Forgotten Realms' creators, Ed Greenwood. If you look closely at Unforetold: Witchstone, it has a few similarities to one of 2023’s bestselling games, Baldur’s Gate 3.

Of course, any RPG featuring in-depth character creation, branching quests, and dialogue, plus an expansive world, will be compared to Larian Studios’ masterpiece. But there’s definitely a fair amount of inspiration here, and that’s not a bad thing.

Hopefully the success of Baldur's Gate 3 means more CRPGs to play.

Unforetold: Witchstone may look a bit like Baldur’s Gate 3, both being CRPGs, but this new release features an interesting mechanic in its ‘influence system’. This feature allows you to shape the world based on your decision-making. “The consequences of your actions are both far-reaching and powerful. With each opportunity, you may sow the seeds of chaos, unite people against tyranny, become a conqueror, and more.” It certainly sounds like you’re given the role of adventurer, but also DM, in changing things on the fly.

“Influence spreads across the world and dynamically changes not only how you are perceived, but how people and factions perceive and interact with each other.” We saw shades of this in Baldur’s Gate 3 and many other games over the years and it’s always a welcome addition. Players generally enjoy seeing their decisions change the playing field when it’s implemented properly.

Launching in Steam early access, Unforetold: Witchstone will see hundreds of hours invested by players who want to play in their own unique way. You’ll recognise the turn-based battle system, along with the non-linear quest progression seen elsewhere. While some may think it’s too similar to other CRPGs, we think the more the merrier. With several player classes available, lots of customisation, and a vast world to explore, this could be the perfect follow-up to last year’s smash hit.