HBO's Baldur's Gate Show Could Change How We Think About Game Adaptations

For decades, video game adaptations were Hollywood's reliable way to disappoint both gamers and general audiences. Then HBO's The Last of Us changed everything, and now the same creative team is betting on another beloved RPG.

The Last of Us Formula Gets Another Test

HBO is developing a Baldur's Gate TV series based on Larian Studios' critically acclaimed RPG Baldur's Gate 3, according to Deadline. Craig Mazin, co-creator of The Last of Us, will serve as creator, writer, executive producer, and showrunner—essentially the same role that helped him transform a zombie game into prestige television.

But this isn't a straightforward adaptation. While the show will feature new protagonists, existing characters from the game are expected to return. Mazin plans to reach out to the game's voice cast with "ideas for them to participate in the TV adaptation and ways that would make that possible." This approach suggests a continuation rather than a retelling—a bold choice that could either expand the universe or confuse newcomers.

Why Baldur's Gate Makes Sense for Television

Baldur's Gate 3 became a cultural phenomenon when it launched in 2023, selling millions of copies and earning near-universal critical acclaim. Unlike many games, it's built around character relationships, moral choices, and branching narratives—elements that translate naturally to television storytelling.

The game's success also proved that audiences are hungry for fantasy content that goes beyond the typical medieval setting. With complex characters, political intrigue, and genuine emotional stakes, Baldur's Gate offers the kind of mature fantasy storytelling that could fill the void left by shows like Game of Thrones.

The Broader Shift in Game Adaptations

This announcement comes at a time when the entertainment industry is finally taking video games seriously as source material. Netflix has found success with Arcane and Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, while Amazon is developing a Mass Effect series. The key difference now seems to be involving original creators and understanding what made the games compelling in the first place.

Mazin's track record suggests he understands this. The Last of Us succeeded because it captured the emotional core of the game while making necessary changes for television. The question is whether this approach can work with a more open-ended, player-driven narrative like Baldur's Gate.