How to change languages in Baldur's Gate 3 - Steam and GOG steps

Can't quite figure out how to change language in Baldur's Gate 3? Given the frustration it can cause if there's a mismatch between the default language it boots into and the language you speak and read, the game's unorthodox way of changing it can be hard to find. Rest assured though, adventurer. We'll walk you through it.

Whether you're having an issue with the game language not matching your own, or you'd just like to use the game to practice and learn a new language by way of immersion, there's a way to fix the problem. And although it's not done the usual way most games handle it, it's not some convoluted and complex tweak Larian Studios hid away to stop people from messing up.

How to change languages in Baldur's Gate 3

To change the language in your Baldur's Gate 3 game, you first need to quit out of the game. You won't find the option in any of the in-game menus like you'd typically expect.

Once you've closed the game, the method depends entirely on the launcher you're using: Steam or GOG. We've outlined both methods below, echoing the steps the developers posted to the game's official Q&A board.

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How to change BG3 language on Steam

• Find the game in your library
• Right-click the game
• Select "Properties"
• Find "Langauge" under the "General" tab
• Use the drop-down box to change the BG3 language to your preferred one.

If you choose a language that doesn't come pre-installed, you may notice your game will start to update.

How to change BG3 language on Steam

• Select the game in GOG Galaxy
• Click the settings icon in the top right
• Select "Configure" from the Manage Installation menu
• Use the drop-down box to change the language.

If you choose a language that isn't already installed, you may be prompted to update your game.

With that done and dusted, the language of your current and future playthroughs should match the language chosen using the steps above.

For more early BG3 tips and tricks, check out how to change spells, how to swap party members, and how to use the forge in Baldur's Gate 3. And if you're struggling to find every item in a scene, learning how to highlight objects could really help.