The Infinity engine is Black Isle Studio's brainchild -- the programming heart and soul of every Baldur's Gate and Icewind Dale game to date. Debuting in 1998 with the release of Baldur's Gate, the Infinity engine provides an intense blend of tactical turn-based or real time combat and traditional RPGs. Built upon the 3rd edition Dungeons and Dragons rule set, the Infinity engine utilizes a third-person isometric perspective common to many party based RPGs. The appeal, and resulting longevity, of the engine comes from the efficient, yet complex, gameplay it provides. Although not greatly changed since its debut, it has been constantly refined to the point of perfection. Finding success in game after game, Black Isle has continued the Infinity tradition with Icewind Dale II.​