Best BioWare Video Game Franchises

Key Takeaways

Neverwinter Nights offers intense D&D experiences with deep storytelling, numerous enemies, and realm-saving quests.
Mass Effect captivates with memorable characters, complex storytelling, and enjoyable RPG mechanics.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic tells enthralling stories, features memorable characters, and is a fan-favorite series.

As a long-time fan of BioWare and their groundbreaking work in the gaming industry, I have to say that each one of these franchises holds a special place in my heart. However, if we’re talking about the one that truly set the stage for the epic storytelling we’ve come to expect from this legendary developer, it has to be Baldur’s Gate.

BioWare is undeniably one of the most esteemed gaming development firms worldwide, boasting an impressive collection of published games and a wealth of skilled professionals at its main office. Over the years, they have skillfully created some of the finest role-playing games (RPGs) and even collaborated with influential intellectual properties like Dungeons & Dragons and Star Wars.

For enthusiasts seeking immersive experiences within BioWare’s top-tier video game series, these clusters of games are essential playthroughs, as they shine brighter than others in the BioWare universe.

5 Neverwinter

Filled To The Brim With D&D Goodness

Neverwinter Nights offers one of the deepest and darkest experiences in the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, with a heart-wrenching storyline, countless adversaries to conquer, and multiple realms requiring rescue from the clutches of darkness. This game has undergone numerous updates and expansions, providing an abundance of additional content in the form of campaigns, enriching the gameplay experience with hundreds of hours of challenges and new, formidable foes.

The franchise is also well-known for giving players the chance to experiment with the D&D 3.0 rule system, which was very popular back then. Its follow-up, Neverwinter Nights 2, employed D&D 3.5, but it’s worth noting that the original game has a slight edge in terms of storyline and character development depth. However, there is no denying that this is one of BioWare’s top franchises, and it remains playable today with its built-in modding system and countless custom campaigns created by an active community of Dungeon Masters (DMs).

4 Mass Effect

One Of The Best Sci-Fi Franchises Of All Times

Since its inception, Mass Effect has consistently been an eye-catching franchise, with BioWare skillfully crafting it into a treasure trove of unforgettable characters, profound narratives, and exhilarating universe construction that has left countless fans spellbound across the globe. The narrative chronicles the escapades of Captain Shepard and their vibrant team, navigating a cosmic predicament that looms as a potential extinction-level event for all intelligent life forms in the galaxy.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve been utterly captivated by the Mass Effect series, with the exception of Andromeda. These games have redefined character relationships and RPG mechanics in a way that’s revolutionary, earning them critical acclaim and solidifying their place among the greatest sci-fi game franchises ever created. What sets Mass Effect apart is its compelling vision of unity among mankind and other species, working together towards a common goal, despite our vast cultural and biological differences. It paints a hopeful future that players can’t help but look forward to.

3 Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic

Arguably, The Best Star Wars Game Series Made To Date

Knights Of The Old Republic,” often abbreviated as KOTOR, is another masterpiece from BioWare. This game is based on a part of the Star Wars expanded universe penned by the renowned author Drew Karpyshyn. It takes place before the Imperial Era, roughly 4000 years before the Battle of Yavin (BBY). The story revolves around Revan, a fallen Jedi Knight who once embraced the Dark Side but subsequently made amends by attempting to thwart Darth Malak’s ascension to power.

The subsequent storyline continues in the footsteps of Revan and the Exile, two contentious figures from the Old Republic era who left the Jedi Order under similar circumstances. After encountering a mysterious deceased woman (Kreia) and rediscovering the Force, they were tasked with preventing Darth Sion and Darth Nihilus from locating the Star Forge and using its immense power to devastate the Galaxy. This franchise’s narrative is captivating and rich, filled with iconic characters and brilliant dialogues that have left a lasting impression. It has gained significant popularity among fans, leading to persistent speculation about its potential adaptation into a movie, television series, or remake. This enthusiasm for the series truly underscores the depth of affection that fans hold for it.

2 Dragon Age

The Perfect Dark Fantasy Experience

Over the past 15 years, Dragon Age stands out as one of the most impressive revelations, with its complex, mature fantasy setting, and a cast of exceptionally well-crafted characters. The series boasts an expansive range of likable, believable characters that have been brought to life by truly talented individuals such as the Grey Warden, Morrigan, Hawke, Varric, Sera, Cassandra Pentaghast (and many others). Additionally, it is home to some unforgettable villains, including the enigmatic Flemeth, the formidable Corypheus, and Solas, the character of the moment who has betrayed us.

Fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of “Dragon Age: The Veilguard,” marking the sequel to “Dragon Age: Inquisition.” This upcoming release is expected to resolve a decade-long mystery about the intentions and sinister plot of the main antagonist, who aims to manipulate the reality of Thedas. Thus, it’s reasonable to say that “Dragon Age” could be one of the greatest fantasy series ever produced by this renowned game development company.

1 Baldur’s Gate

The Pinnacle Of BioWare’s Masterful Storytelling

BioWare created their masterpiece by weaving an engaging storyline, featuring a captivating soundtrack and the guidelines of AD&D 2nd Edition, which eventually led to the emergence of the popular Baldur’s Gate series. While today many players are familiar with the modern adaptation by Larian Studios, when the franchise initially debuted, it made a significant impact. From its captivating main storyline to its final expansion pack, Throne Of Bhaal, the franchise introduced numerous unforgettable characters, including Minsc, the Rashemaar Range, and his pet “Miniature Giant Space Hamster” Boo, who remain well-known figures.

Of course, the legend of Baldur’s Gate didn’t end up staying for too long with BioWare, and there were a lot of incredible spin-offs of the series developed by other developers, like the Dark Alliance series delivered to players by Snowblind Studios and Black Isle Studios. And though the success of Baldur’s Gate 3 was considerable, gamers should never forget about the studio that set the foothold for the franchise to grow into the incredible success that it is today.

2024-09-20 03:34