Baldur’s Gate 3 has taken the world by storm, but its turn based combat can be something that not everyone can get into. If you are looking for more RPGs like BG3 but with real-time active combat as well as with other aspects of this Larian game like choices, romances, etc., there are some great suggestions that we can give you. Here are some of the best games like Baldur’s Gate 3 which are not turn-based, including those that have an optional turn-based mode, in case you change your mind.
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Great Games like Baldur’s Gate 3
While there aren’t any exactly similar games like Baldur’s Gate 3 which are not turn-based, there are some other must-play titles that have various elements that are present in BG3. These are our top picks.
Fallout 4
Fallout 4 thrusts you into a world ravaged by nuclear war and if you are interested in playing a game based in a post-apocalyptic world, this game is highly recommended. Like BG3, Fallout 4 offers vast danger-filled worlds to explore, and unique characters with hidden secrets. Your decisions throughout the game can significantly impact the story and the world around you. Both games allow you to create your character, customizing their appearance and skills to suit your playstyle. Plus, you can have romances and relationships in the game leading to some interesting consequences.
Pillars of Eternity
Pillars of Eternity and Baldur’s Gate 3 both are inspired by the classic Dungeons & Dragons rule set — PoE is also called the spiritual successor to Baldur’s Gate. This means you get party-based adventuring with a focus on building a well-rounded team and deep character creation with races, classes, and skills that define your playstyle.
Moreover, you also experience choices with consequences that impact the story and the world. So for those players who prefer to play games based in a rich fantasy setting, complex factions, morally ambiguous situations, memorable companions with their own motivations and some amazing storytelling, Pillars of Eternity is a game you should not miss.
Note that Pillars of Eternity has two options for combat – real time with pause (RTWP) and turn based, so you can go for RTWP if turn based is not your cup of tea. This is where the game world progresses in real-time, but you can pause the action at any time to issue commands to your party members, use abilities, and make strategic decisions.
Tyranny
Tyranny is yet another game which emphasizes player agency, where your choices have impactful outcomes to shape the narrative. If you’re looking for similar immersion, worldbuilding, and enjoy the isometric perspective of BG3, this game will scratch all those itches.
Disco Elysium
Disco Elysium and Baldur’s Gate 3 might seem like widely different games on the surface, but they share some surprising similarities. Both games place a strong emphasis on character development and the impact of your choices. Disco Elysium gives up traditional combat for a system where you roll dice for skill checks based on your character’s inner struggles. The success or failure of these checks heavily impacts the story. Since both games use unconventional mechanics that enhance the RPG experience, Disco Elysium deserves a spot on our list of great games like Baldur’s Gate 3.
Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous
Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous (WOTR) and Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3) are both isometric CRPGs set in Dungeons & Dragons-inspired worlds, so they share the same core DNA. Both of these games have high replay value as you experiment with different decisions. In this one, you’ll assemble a party of adventurers with unique abilities and personalities. Both games emphasize party synergy and tactical decision-making in combat, so it’s definitely worth checking out.
Mass Effect Trilogy
If ‘choices and consequences’ are the elements you most enjoyed in BG3, the Mass Effect trilogy is something you cannot miss. Mass Effect is a sci-fi RPG with a focus on action-oriented combat and exploration. In these games, your Paragon (diplomatic) or Renegade (aggressive) choices influence the story and unlock unique dialogue options. Both games allow you to create your character. In Mass Effect, you sculpt Commander Shepard’s appearance, backstory, and even military background.
As you progress, you recruit squadmates, each with their own skillsets, loyalty missions, and romances. Baldur’s Gate 3 focuses on a smaller party but offers deeper companion interactions, where your choices can influence their quests and even their fate.
These were our recommendations for the best games like Baldur’s Gate 3 that are not turn-based (as well as those with an optional turn-based mode). For more lists of great games that you should play, head over to our Features category.