Non-Playable Character in Baldur's Gate 3 Derived from a D&D Sourcebook
Researchers have noticed that a key non-playable character (NPC) in Baldur's Gate 3, a game based on Dungeons & Dragons fifth edition, shares its name with a character from a D&D sourcebook. Baldur's Gate 3 draws heavily from the iconic tabletop RPG, both for its world and mechanics, and this finding suggests the developer, Larian Studios, may have also derived character ideas from D&D sourcebooks.
The Character: Auntie Ethel
The character in question is 'Auntie Ethel,' who players encounter in Act 1 of Baldur's Gate 3. This seemingly innocent, elderly woman character slowly reveals herself as something more sinister over the course of the game. A name identical to hers has been found in Volo's Guide to Monsters, a D&D sourcebook aimed at helping Dungeon Masters devise their own characters or hags.
Connection to Volo's Guide to Monsters
The in-universe perspective taken within Volo's Guide to Monsters, makes this finding all the more interesting. The guide is written from the viewpoint of 'Volo,' another NPC seen in Baldur's Gate 3. It is possible that within the game's universe, Volo came across Auntie Ethel and included her in the guide. Regardless of whether this is an intentional feature from the game developers or mere coincidence, this finding underscores the depth of Baldur's Gate 3 and the rewarding experience it provides for its players.
