[Shehzad]

The two cannot really be compared given that both use totally different engines and, despite being made by the same developers, are both very different games. :)

True. NWN's single player campaign is inferior to either BG or BGII, but where it shines is the extensive user-created content (someone check out the Paladin trilogy or the Dreamcatcher/Shadowlords series-- those are better than the OC!) and especially the online community.

[JamesL]

True. NWN's single player campaign is inferior to either BG or BGII, but where it shines is the extensive user-created content (someone check out the Paladin trilogy or the Dreamcatcher/Shadowlords series-- those are better than the OC!) and especially the online community.

How big is the online community? How does the game play online? Do you simply play the game through with other players at your side, or is it different?

[Shehzad]

The online community is pretty big and very accepting. Its not quite a MMORPG, but its close. Essentially, you can play online through either the original content or many user-created modules with other players, OR, even better, can participate in one of numerous "persistent worlds" which are servers running 24/7 with an evolving storyline and a definite campaign theme. Some are focused on hack-n-slash, some are more roleplay-oriented while others are a mix between the two, while others are player vs player combat. It's almost like a good old-fashioned pen & paper D&D campaign, sitting down and having a DM-run event with 10 other players.

Many of these servers feature custom content, massive worlds unlike anything seen in the shipped game, some even have rule modifications like a modified death system or restrictions on classes etc, all of which are governed through downloading add-ons to the game which allows you to log on to the particular server.

Once you go online, the game becomes practically endless....

[Monty Mike]

I don't suppose a BG3 is going to be made? I'd love that. Also a Diablo 3 would be cool (although I think Blizzard are already gathering a team to make it).

[Shehzad]

BG3 is not likely to be made since Black Isle (who developed BG1 & 2) have been closed down. Diablo 3 is in the works.

I wonder what Bioware has planned for NWN2 though...

[Monty Mike]

Black Isle were closed down? I never new that, damn :(

And a NWN2? Hhmmm.... sounds promising.....

----------

found a link with some stuff on it:

http://www.gamefaqs.com/computer/doswin/data/922154.html

[Shehzad]

You might want to try here:

http://nwn2forums.bioware.com/forums/

[Monty Mike]

thanks for the link, shehz, I'll check it out later :D

[JamesL]

Yes, it was a shame that Black Isle were closed down. Nonetheless, I think the Baldur's Gate series using the Infinity engine had run its course. I mean not only did you have both BG games (including Tales of the Sword Coast add-on for BG 1 and Throne of Bhaal for BG 2) but you also had both Icewind Dale games. I think they pushed the engine as far as it could go; 3D (Neverwinter Nights) was becoming the vogue. Also, the story for BG was concluded in Throne of Bhaal. I think it was a good place to end the series.

As for Diablo 3, sounds interesting. I'd not heard that Blizzard were making a follow-up but I did know that Blizzard North were apparently working on a new title. Rumours suggest that it is Starcraft 2. Diablo 3 would be nice though; Diablo 2 is an awesome game.

[AshleyBoy]

you know, i never really liked diablo... i could never get into it.. there were so many games like it out at the time... it was all too familiar.
Starcraft, however, was a must have game!
i still play it to this day (though admitedly, not with as much enthusiasm)
if Starcraft2 is really on the cards, then i can't wait.
As for Baldurs gate VS NeverwinterNights. well... as i have said, i much prefer neverwinter nights...especially if you have the community expansion pack..which allows for so much more when creating your own mods. However.. the storyline for Baldurs gate was far superior!
end of rant!