A new prequel novel, Baldur's Gate 3: Astarion, has been announced with an exclusive excerpt and audiobook narration by Neil Newbon, the actor behind Astarion in the game. The book explores Astarion's past before the events of Baldur's Gate 3
Baldur's Gate 3: Astarion, a prequel novel set before the events of Larian Studios' acclaimed RPG, has been officially announced. The novel, written by T. Kingfisher, delves into the backstory of Astarion, one of the game's most popular companions, focusing on his years under the control of the vampire lord Cazador Szarr. The book aims to expand the lore of Baldur's Gate 3 by exploring Astarion's life prior to the events players experience in the game.
Official Excerpt and Audiobook Narration
According to a report from IGN, an exclusive excerpt from Baldur's Gate 3: Astarion has been released, accompanied by narration from Neil Newbon, the actor who voices Astarion in the game. The audiobook version will feature Newbon's performance throughout, offering fans a familiar voice as they explore Astarion's troubled past. The excerpt showcases Astarion navigating the streets of Baldur's Gate, seeking victims for his master while reflecting on the dangers and moral ambiguities of his existence.
To ensure the novel's authenticity within the established lore, Stephen Rooney, a senior writer on Baldur's Gate 3, was consulted during the writing process. This collaboration is intended to maintain consistency with the game's world and characterisation, providing a seamless narrative bridge for fans invested in the series' storytelling.
Release Date and Publishing Details
Baldur's Gate 3: Astarion is scheduled for publication by Random House Worlds on 29 September 2026. The release will include both print and audiobook editions, with the latter narrated in full by Neil Newbon. The novel is positioned as an official prequel, offering new insights into Astarion's motivations and the events that shaped his personality before joining the player's party in Baldur's Gate 3.
The book's release date places it nearly two years after the original launch of Baldur's Gate 3, reflecting the ongoing interest in the game's characters and universe. No information has been provided regarding additional language editions or regional release variations at this stage.
What the Excerpt Reveals
The published excerpt follows Astarion as he moves through the fog-shrouded streets of Baldur's Gate, carefully selecting his targets while avoiding unwanted attention from the city's guards and criminal elements. The narrative highlights Astarion's wit, survival instincts, and the complex moral landscape he navigates as a vampire spawn. The passage also introduces new supporting characters and locations within the city, expanding on the setting familiar to players of the game.
While the excerpt does not reveal major plot developments, it provides a glimpse into the tone and style of the novel, which appears to blend dark humour with the tension and danger of Astarion's nightly existence. The focus on character-driven storytelling is consistent with the approach taken in Baldur's Gate 3, suggesting the novel will appeal to fans interested in deeper exploration of companion backstories.
Franchise Context and Remaining Questions
Baldur's Gate 3: Astarion is the latest example of a major RPG franchise expanding its universe through officially licensed novels. The involvement of Larian Studios' writing team and the use of Neil Newbon's voice for the audiobook indicate a strong commitment to continuity and quality. However, it remains to be seen how much new lore or character development the novel will introduce beyond what is already established in the game.
At present, there is no confirmation of further novels focusing on other Baldur's Gate 3 companions, nor details on whether the events of the book will influence future game content or expansions. Pricing, pre-order bonuses, and special editions have not been announced. Players interested in the audiobook can expect a performance closely aligned with the in-game portrayal of Astarion, but the full scope of the narrative will only become clear upon release.
Licensed novels based on video games often serve to deepen the lore and provide additional context for established characters. In the case of Baldur's Gate 3: Astarion, the novel is positioned as an official prequel, meaning it is intended to fit directly into the game's timeline and character arcs. For players, this offers an opportunity to engage with the world of Baldur's Gate 3 in a new format, while also raising questions about how much influence such tie-in media can have on the broader franchise narrative.
