Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3) Preload – Is it available?

Can you preload Baldur's Gate 3? This is the question on everyone's mind right now.
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A Baldur's Gate 3 Image showing various character behind the game's logo, with a cthulu like monster in the clouds
Image: Larian Studios

We get it, you’re excited! Baldur’s Gate 3 has arrived. But you’re probably wondering, “Can I preload BG3?” We’re all eager to jump into the action the moment it’s live. The tension is real, my friends. So, let’s cut to the chase and answer that burning question: Is BG3 preload available or not? Stick around as we uncover the truth.

Can You Preload Baldur’s Gate III?

I’ll rip the band-aid off. Larian has confirmed in their June 31 community update on Steam that you cannot preload Baldur’s Gate 3 ahead of the release time in your location. Yes, you read that right, no BG3 preload. We’re all in the same boat here, counting down to the BG3 preload time that, sadly, doesn’t exist. This is because of Early Access and limitations with Steam.

Even though you’ve blocked out your calendar, stocked up on snacks, and you’re ready to plunge into the world of BG3. You’ve gotta wait and download the whopping 122GB to get into the final release of Baldur’s Gate III. Bummer, right? I feel you.

Related: Baldur’s Gate 3: Best Tiefling Subraces – Asmodeus, Mephistopheles, Zariel

What does this mean for your Early Access version? Well, sadly, it’s now wasted download space. The final release of BG3 is an entirely different beast from the Early Access version. So, it’s time to say goodbye to your old saves and campaigns, as they are now incompatible, according to Larian Studios, and uninstall it to make some room because BG3 isn’t exactly small.

So, there you have it! If you were planning a BG3 preload party, unfortunately, the party won’t start early. No preloading option is available for Baldur’s Gate 3. But hey, don’t let that be a damper. After all, isn’t a bit of anticipation part of the thrill? So clear out some space, mentally prepare yourself for the epic journey ahead, and remember – the world of Baldur’s Gate 3 is worth the wait!

  • You can’t preload Baldur’s Gate 3, so you’ll have to wait until the release time in your location.
  • The game has a hefty size of 122 GB, as confirmed by Larian.
  • It’s best to delete your Early Access version of BG3, including all saves and campaigns, and uninstall before installing the final game.
  • While the lack of a preloading option may be a slight inconvenience, the epic journey that awaits in BG3 is definitely worth the wait.
Mark Carpenter

Mark Carpenter

Mark Carpenter is the Managing Editor at Try Hard Guides, and main guide writer. With over five years of experience in games media, including almost three years as an Assigning Editor for Pro Game Guides, and before that a Staff Writer.

His writing and game guide work has also been featured on platforms such as Metro UK and Game Rant, along with other smaller publications. He has been a devoted gamer since the days of Amiga, with a journey spanning roughly 31 years.

Mark's future goals are to grow the Try Hard Guides network as much as possible while helping gamers everywhere with gaming guide content. When not immersed in gaming, Mark enjoys delving into the worlds of D&D (Dungeons & Dragons), strumming his guitar, and indulging in a good read. His heart belongs to RPGs, the Final Fantasy series, and The Legend of Zelda. Moreover, he has a keen affection for dogs.

Contact: mark@tryhardguides.com

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