Baldur’s Gate 3: A Common Misinterpretation of Spell Artwork by Players Since Launch

The majority of spell icons in Baldur’s Gate 3 are easily legible, even when scaled down on the user interface. However, some have caused confusion among players due to their ability to be interpreted in various ways.

The Baldur’s Gate series has undergone significant changes with the release of its third installment. The game has evolved immensely, with a twenty-year gap and a completely new set of D&D rules. Furthermore, the transition to a 3D environment and turn-based combat has resulted in a stark contrast between the previous Baldur’s Gate titles and the latest one.

Despite the changes made to the Bhaalspawn storyline, one element that has remained consistent in the older games is the use of certain spell icons. For instance, spells such as Magic Missile and Sleep still feature familiar artwork on the UI, which longtime players will surely recognize.

According to users on the Baldur’s Gate 3 Reddit, there is a spell in the game with a misleading icon. They claim that the artwork for Vicious Mockery appears to show someone crying, but it is actually meant to depict someone covering their mouth to ensure they are heard.

Today I just realise Vicous Mockery symbol byu/alonedead inBaldursGate3

One user commented, “I initially thought those were two huge streams of tears coming from the person’s eyes: ‘) Thank you for clarifying, that’s actually quite funny.”Another user added, “I also mistook it for someone crying because of the names I called them.”

“One user commented, stating that they had initially believed the icon was a person laughing and making fun of someone, writing “lmao look at this idiot.”Another user playfully added, “I actually thought it was a sea lion with whiskers, if that makes you feel any better.”

The artwork may have been designed to be interpreted in two ways. Vicious Mockery is a potent Cantrip that requires you to verbally attack an enemy, causing them harm. Therefore, it is logical that the artwork could symbolize both the person delivering the insult and the one receiving it.

Despite the fact that Baldur’s Gate 3 currently lacks any Bard companions (though this may change in the upcoming patch), it is possible that many players have overlooked the potential of Vicious Mockery. However, with the introduction of Alfira’s power in the new patch, it is likely that players will now be able to recognize the Cantrip’s icon and perhaps even come up with their own amusing alternatives.