Baldur’s Gate 3 has become a phenomenon on the Steam Deck, with players logging over 17 million hours on the platform alone. Publishing director Michael Douse shared this achievement, jokingly remarking on how much time that represents—nearly 1,965 years. This enormous playtime on Steam Deck showcases the popularity of the game on handheld platforms and highlights how RPG fans are using the flexibility of devices like the Steam Deck to dive deeply into Baldur’s Gate 3’s vast world.
In light of this milestone, Douse humorously suggested the idea of a “special edition 100w battery,” designed specifically for the Steam Deck, referencing a “Bag of Holding” from Dungeons & Dragons. The proposed accessory would humorously “hold extra juice” for those long gaming marathons. This joke struck a chord with the community, as it playfully addressed the dedication of players who, despite battery constraints, continue to invest hours into the game on the go.
Beyond Steam Deck, Baldur’s Gate 3 has a vast player base across multiple platforms, including PC, PS5, and Xbox. While the 17 million hours logged on Steam Deck alone are impressive, the total hours spent on the game across all platforms are likely exponentially higher. This accomplishment demonstrates the game’s wide reach and sustained engagement across its diverse audience, bringing together players from different gaming ecosystems.
Larian Studios, the developer, has also fostered ongoing engagement through modding support, which recently reached over 50 million mod downloads since Patch 7. Among the unique mods, players showed particular interest in one that allowed them to rename a character, Withers, to “Bone Daddy,” a change embraced by around 10,000 players. This community-led customization shows how deeply fans have connected with Baldur’s Gate 3 and how Larian has cultivated an environment that encourages player creativity.
These milestones highlight Baldur’s Gate 3 as not just a successful RPG but a cultural touchpoint in gaming. Its popularity on portable devices like the Steam Deck and its continuous evolution through player-created mods and updates demonstrate Larian’s commitment to creating a game that players want to keep returning to. Baldur’s Gate 3’s mix of rich storytelling, immersive gameplay, and community support sets it apart as a game likely to be enjoyed for many years to come.
