Baldur’s Gate 3 Controller UI, DualSense Features Explained

Developer Larian Studios has revealed how Baldur’s Gate 3 makes use of different features of the PS5’s DualSense controller in the upcoming PS5 release of the game. In a post on the PlayStation Blog, Baldur’s Gate 3 product manager Emily Gera talks about not only the controller’s features, but also how the game has generally been adapted for play from its mouse and keyboard control scheme on PC to a controller for consoles.

The PS5 version of Baldur’s Gate 3 will feature a new, upgraded control scheme over its predecessor, Divinity: Original Sin 2. The UI is now a collection of radial menus, with most essential tools being available with the push of a trigger. This includes the map, journal, spellbook, character sheet, combat log, alchemy, short rests, long rests, and the camp.

Available deeper in the radial menus are different actions, spells, cantrips and items. Once players get used to the radial control scheme, accessing the right item or spell should become second nature thanks to muscle memory, according to the post.

When it comes to DualSense features, Baldur’s Gate 3 makes use of some of the minor, more fun features, like the DualSense controller’s light bar changing colour depending on what kind of spell is being cast. The light bar also has different levels of brightness intensity depending on moments of heightened pressure, and the haptics will also kick in.

The adaptive triggers on the DualSense will allow players to get a sense of weight when they switch between different menus. Lightly pulling on the trigger will let players get a quick look at their radial menu, while pulling the trigger hard will lock the radial menu open.

Baldur’s Gate 3 will allow players to choose from a series of different controller schemes, depending on how they might feel comfortable while playing the game.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is coming to PS5 later today. Those who purchased the Digital Deluxe or Collector’s Editions of the game have been able to play it for a couple of days.