Introduction
Divinity: Original Sin 2 Definitive Edition launched on September 14, 2017, and it still ranks among the highest-rated CRPGs of this generation. Coming from the team behind Baldur’s Gate 3, Larian Studios takes its award-winning formula to the next level with deep turn-based combat, rich storytelling, and unprecedented player freedom. Also, the Definitive Edition bundles all expansions, quality-of-life upgrades, and a Game Master mode—so you get the full package and a modern tactical RPG that truly sets the standard.
Storyline & Characters
The Divine is dead, the Void is spreading, and you—whether Elf, Lizard, Human, Dwarf, or Undead—carry hidden Source powers. Six origin characters each bring their own backstories and personal quests, which means you’ll face unexpected drama and tough moral choices. That said, while Baldur’s Gate 3 leans into an open-ended narrative, Original Sin 2 sticks to a clear, multi-layered plot with branching endings that reward both persistence and curiosity.
Gameplay Mechanics
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Turn-Based Combat
Over 200 skills across 12 schools. For instance, you can electrify water, set oil alight, or freeze the ground—each element adds new tactical options. -
Party Synergy
When you play, you can team up with up to four people online or via split-screen. Best of all, how your party gets along actually shapes dialogue choices, quest outcomes, and even romance paths. -
Game Master Mode
Think of it as a digital tabletop RPG. You can build your own adventures, control NPCs in real time, and share campaigns through Steam Workshop. -
Exploration & Freedom
Progress however you like: stack side quests, find hidden lore, or role-play wildly—yes, you can kill major NPCs and still finish the game.
Visuals & Audio
With full 4K support, the Divinity: Original Sin 2 painterly art style and dynamic lighting stand out. Character models show emotion, and environments—from dark ruins to lively towns—draw you into Rivellon’s world. In fact, the orchestral soundtrack and voice acting highlight key moments, rivalling big-budget RPGs.
Comparison with Peers
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Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire
More real-time pausing and fewer elemental tricks. Original Sin 2, on the other hand, leads in reactive environments and co-op features. -
Wasteland 3
You’ll find gritty post-apocalypse visuals and cover-based tactics here, but Divinity’s magic combos and branching story feel more advanced. -
Torment: Tides of Numenera
Focused heavily on deep dialogue and a single hero. However, Divinity wins for combat variety and multiplayer design. -
Baldur’s Gate 3 (Early Access)
Offers higher fidelity and official D&D rules, yet it’s still unfinished. As a result, Original Sin 2 remains the more polished and complete experience.
Community Feedback & Ratings
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All-Time Rating: 95% “Overwhelmingly Positive” (165,000+ reviews)
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Recent Rating: 92% “Very Positive”
Notably, players praise the deep tactics, replayable story, party interactions, and mod-friendly Game Master tools. On the flip side, newcomers often mention the steep learning curve, occasional slowdowns on ultra settings, and crowded menus.
Impact on the RPG Genre
Divinity: Original Sin 2 reset the bar for turn-based party RPGs. By mixing tabletop flair with digital polish, it inspired later games to focus on environmental tactics, player choice, and strong multiplayer. Its success also showed there’s a big audience for challenging, co-op CRPGs in a market full of action-RPGs.
Conclusion
For veteran tacticians and story-hungry adventurers alike, the Definitive Edition of Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a design masterclass. Although its depth can feel intimidating, the payoff—strategic combat, rich narrative, and nearly limitless replay value—cements its place among the genre’s all-time greats.