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I was wondering if there is an online retailer that sells a downloadable version of Baldur's Gate. I have seen other retail games for download, but have not found this one.

I bought Baldur's Gate 2 at a local retailer and have played it for a couple of hours. I have seen enough to know that this is my type of game. The only thing I don't like so far is that my character did not start at level 1. I am assuming this is because this is BG2 not BG1.

I had planned on gaming for most of the weekend, but would really like to start with a level 1 character. None of my local retailers have BG1. I can mail order it, but it obviously won't make in time for me to play tonight

Sorry for being so long winded, but now you understand why I am looking for a retailer that I can download it from. I assume that the manual is in PDF format. If not, I am sure the BG2 manual I have will suffice.

TIA for any help.

As far as I know, BG1 is not available as a download.

And yes, to answer your other question, BG1 does start at level 1 and allows you to import that character into BG2 (usually at around level 7).

One trick you might want to look into if you are desperate to play a level 1 character is to Dual-Class a Human character immediately on starting BG2. That would allow you to progress from level 1 up until you surpass the level of the old class, at which point both classes will be available. However, this has the drawback that the NPCs that you meet will be a higher level so it is not quite the same experience.

If you really want the roleplaying experience to be complete, I would advise waiting until you get your copy of BG1. There are some plot elements that you get to discover in that game the knowledge of which are taken for granted in BG2.

I think preserving the surprise factor really is worth the wait.

I know that this is the BG1 forum, but also, if you would like to start from lvl 1, you might want to try Icewindale. Its not up to the plot standards of BG1 and BG2, but it is a great roleplaying experience with the same setup as the BG series. Just a suggestion.

I'd order BG1 (and Tales of the Sword Coast, the expansion) and play BG1 first. There is a three part story that runs from BG1 through Throne of Bhaal and playing the game(s) in the wrong order would somewhat ruin the game experience, IMHO.

Of course, you could fool around a bit with BG2 until you get BG1, you know, to get to know the game, decide what class and race you like best.

Thanks everyone.

Thanks to everyone who replied

I decided to "play around" in BG2 until my BG1 order arrives as Coot suggested. I will make sure to buy a copy of the expansion as well.

I am really looking forward to playing. I played D&D as a kid and loved it. Pulled several "all-nighters" in college playing too. All that is over 10 years ago so I need to refresh myself on the rules as well as the kits that have come out since. BG2 is a little tough for me because of that. I know I am not taking full advantage of my PC or the NPCs in my party. I think BG1 will help me in that I can learn as I go.

Corsair: Thanks for the suggestion. Icewindale is on my list for after BG.

Thanks again for the comments. Judging by these boards, BG is a great series of RPGs. I can't wait to start playing.

wot_fan
In case you don't know, wot = Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan. A great fantasy story some have compared to The Lord of the Rings.