HBO Develops Baldur’s Gate TV Series Set After Baldur’s Gate 3

HBO is developing a television series set in the world of Baldur's Gate, expanding the franchise beyond games following the success of Baldur's Gate 3. The project aims to continue the story within the same setting rather than retelling the events of the RPG, allowing the series to explore new characters while acknowledging the game’s impact on the world. The announcement immediately positioned the show as one of the most ambitious video game adaptations currently in development.

Craig Mazin Leads the Project for HBO

According to reporting by Deadline, Craig Mazin will serve as creator, writer, and showrunner for the Baldur’s Gate series. Mazin previously co-created HBO’s adaptation of The Last of Us, which earned critical praise for balancing respect for the source material with strong television storytelling. HBO’s decision to bring Mazin onto the project signals a focus on narrative quality rather than a simple brand extension.

Mazin has spoken openly about his enthusiasm for role-playing games and for Baldur’s Gate 3 specifically. His approach reportedly centers on telling a grounded fantasy story that fits the setting while avoiding direct canonization of player choices from the game. This allows the series to exist alongside the RPG without invalidating its many possible outcomes.

Larian Studios Is Not Directly Involved

Larian Studios, the developer behind Baldur’s Gate 3, is not directly involved in producing or writing the television series. As reported by Windows-Zentrale, reactions inside the studio ranged from surprise to cautious optimism. Publishing director Michael Douse briefly reacted publicly before stepping back, while CEO Swen Vincke later expressed confidence after conversations with the show’s creators.

The absence of Larian’s direct involvement has sparked debate among fans. Some view it as a risk, given the studio’s role in shaping the modern identity of the franchise. Others argue that separation gives the show creative freedom while preserving the game’s legacy as a player-driven experience.

Fan Response Highlights Concerns Over Adaptation

Community reaction has been mixed since the announcement. Coverage by SpieleRadar highlights skepticism around adapting a game defined by player agency into a linear television format. Fans worry that the show could oversimplify moral choices or reduce complex companions into fixed character arcs.

At the same time, some players point to Mazin’s previous work as a reason for cautious optimism. They note that the series does not attempt to recreate specific playthroughs, which may help it avoid direct conflict with the RPG’s branching structure.

What the Series Means for the Baldur’s Gate Franchise

Industry coverage from PC-Spieler frames the project as part of a broader push to adapt major game franchises for television while maintaining higher production standards. If successful, the Baldur’s Gate series could introduce the Forgotten Realms to a wider audience without relying on familiarity with the games.

No release window has been announced, and the project remains in early development. With Mazin currently committed to other productions, the Baldur’s Gate series is unlikely to arrive soon. For now, the announcement signals long-term intent rather than an imminent release.