Exploring the Divinity Series: A Guide for Baldur’s Gate 3 Fans
After the massive success of Baldur’s Gate 3, Larian Studios is returning to its roots with a new Divinity RPG. But what is the Divinity series, and which games should you play? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is the Divinity Series?
The Divinity series is a collection of role‑playing games developed by Larian Studios. While the upcoming Divinity title may not require prior lore knowledge, longtime fans have a rich history to explore.
Games in the Series
- Divine Divinity (2002) – An action RPG with Larian’s signature humor and interactivity.
- Beyond Divinity (2004) – A spinoff focused on co‑op play and puzzle‑solving.
- Divinity II (2009) – A large‑scale action RPG that adds a lot of heart.
- Divinity: Dragon Commander (2013) – A unique blend of RTS, RPG, and grand strategy.
- Divinity: Original Sin (2014) – The series truly takes off with deep combat, co‑op, and interactivity.
- Divinity: Original Sin 2 (2017) – A refined sequel with even richer combat and storytelling.
Where to Start
We recommend playing the games in reverse order of release—starting with Divinity: Original Sin and then Divinity: Original Sin 2. These titles are the most similar to Baldur’s Gate 3, featuring turn‑based combat, co‑op gameplay, and deep simulation/reaction mechanics. Original Sin 2 is especially praised for its superior systems and storytelling.
The World of Rivellon
The series is set in the classic fantasy world of Rivellon, populated by humans, elves, dwarves, lizardfolk, and undead skeletons. While early entries may feel like typical fantasy fare, the characters and narrative depth keep them engaging.
Why the Earlier Games Matter
Fans of classic RPGs will find value in exploring the older titles, even if they feel a bit rough around the edges. They showcase the evolution of Larian’s design philosophy and provide context for the series’ later masterpieces.
