A little bit about Baldur's Gate

With the release of Baldur’s Gate 3 on PC, there may be a chunk of you who are experiencing not only D&D for the first time, but the fabled City of Coins as well.

Baldur's Gate, a renowned city in the D&D universe, holds a rich history that spans centuries. This blog post will delve into the origins, notable events, major NPCs that have shaped the destiny of this iconic city, as well as a  list of adventures that it features in.

What is the Origin of Baldur's Gate?
Baldur's Gate was founded in the Year of Sunrise, 885 DR (Dale Reckoning), by the explorer Balduran. He established the city as a trading post on the Sword Coast, strategically located at the mouth of the River Chionthar. Over time, the city grew into a bustling hub of commerce and a melting pot of diverse cultures.

What Makes Baldur's Gate the Perfect Setting for D&D 5e Adventures?
Baldur's Gate, known as the "City of Coin," is a sprawling metropolis filled with intrigue, danger, and endless opportunities for adventure. Its rich history, diverse population, and intricate political landscape make it an ideal backdrop for thrilling D&D 5e campaigns. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a novice explorer, Baldur's Gate offers something for everyone.

Exploring the City
When you step foot in Baldur's Gate, you'll be greeted by its impressive city walls and bustling streets. The city is divided into three main districts: the Upper City, the Lower City, and the Outer City.

The Upper City is home to the nobility and the wealthy. Here, you'll find luxurious estates, grand temples, and opulent shops. The Lower City is where the common folk reside, with its crowded markets, taverns, and guildhalls. The Outer City, on the other hand, is a place of industry and commerce, with warehouses, docks, and factories.

History - The Bhaalspawn Crisis
Throughout its existence, Baldur's Gate has witnessed numerous significant events that have shaped its destiny. What could be considered the biggest event so far is the  Bhaalspawn Crisis, which occurred in the late 14th century. The city became embroiled in a power struggle as the children of the god Bhaal, known as Bhaalspawn, vied for control.

These events were covered in the super popular Baldur’s Gate videogame series across two full released games (Baldur’s Gate & Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn), multiple expansions (Baldur’s Gate: Tales of the Sword Coast & Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal) and even a radical hack and slash series on gaming consoles (Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance & Baldur’s Gate Dark Alliance II).

Baldur’s Gate III doesn’t really fit into this crisis era, being set 120 years after the events of Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn and just after the events of the D&D 5e adventure Baldur’s Gate: Descent into Avernus.

D&D 5e Adventures Set in Baldur's Gate
Of course Baldur’s Gate hasn’t been reserved for videogames. Here is a curated list of captivating D&D 5e adventures set in the city of Baldur's Gate:

• Descent into Avernus
  Venture into the depths of the Nine Hells as you navigate the treacherous politics of Baldur's Gate and face off against fiendish forces.
  
  This heroic Dungeons & Dragons adventure book takes players from levels 1 to 13 as they journey through Baldur's Gate and into Avernus, the first layer of the Nine Hells.
  
  This adventure is available as a physical book from this very store! Click the link above.
  
  
• DM’s Guild Adventures
  These adventures can be found on the Website DM's Guild.
  
  
• The Fall of Elturel
  Uncover the truth behind the disappearance of the holy city of Elturel and its connection to Baldur's Gate.
  
  
• City on the Edge
  Explore the dark underbelly of Baldur's Gate as you infiltrate a notorious thieves' guild and uncover their nefarious plans.

Who are the Major NPCs in Baldur's Gate?
Baldur's Gate is home to several influential NPCs who have left an indelible mark on the city's history. One such figure is Duke Eltan, the leader of the Flaming Fist mercenary company. Known for his unwavering commitment to justice, Duke Eltan played a pivotal role in maintaining law and order within the city.

Another prominent NPC is Sarevok Anchev, a complex character who became a central antagonist during the Bhaalspawn Crisis. Sarevok's thirst for power and his connection to the god Bhaal made him a formidable adversary for adventurers seeking to restore balance.

Why Choose Baldur's Gate for Your D&D 5e Adventures?
Baldur's Gate offers a unique blend of urban exploration, political intrigue, and thrilling combat encounters. The city's vibrant districts, such as the Upper City, Lower City, and the infamous Elfsong Tavern, provide a diverse range of environments for your adventures. Additionally, the presence of powerful factions, such as the Flaming Fist and the Harpers, adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

Furthermore, Baldur's Gate is a gateway to countless other realms and planes of existence, allowing for seamless integration with other D&D 5e campaigns. Whether you're planning a short adventure or an epic campaign, Baldur's Gate provides a solid foundation for your storytelling.

Conclusion
Baldur's Gate stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the D&D universe. Its rich history, filled with epic events and memorable NPCs, continues to captivate players and fans alike. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the world of D&D, exploring the storied streets of Baldur's Gate is an experience that should not be missed.