Next Game Now Full Focus of Baldur's Gate 3 Studio

Summary

• Larian Studios shifts focus to developing a new title after the success of Baldur's Gate 3.
• Limited support for BG3 continues with Patch 8 introducing new features.
• Details on Larian's next project remain scarce.

Larian Studios, the developer behind the critically acclaimed Baldur's Gate 3, has announced a full pivot to the development of its next title. With the majority of post-launch support for Baldur's Gate 3 now wrapped up, Larian is ready to build on the success of their 2023 hit.

Before the launch of Baldur's Gate 3 in late 2023, Larian had already established itself as a key player in the CRPG genre with titles like Divinity: Original Sin and its 2017 sequel. Their work on these games earned them the opportunity to take on the Baldur's Gate franchise, stepping into the shoes left by BioWare, the original developer of the series. Baldur's Gate 3 not only became a mega-hit, clinching numerous Game of the Year awards but also attracted a new audience to the CRPG genre. This success has significantly boosted Larian's reputation, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next move.

In a statement to VideoGamer, Larian confirmed that "Swen and the team's full attention is focused on crafting their next title." They also announced a "media blackout" to minimize distractions while they work on this new project. While Baldur's Gate 3 will receive some ongoing support, including the upcoming Patch 8 with new features, the studio is largely moving on from the game.

Larian Now Focused on Developing Its First Post-Baldur's Gate 3 Title

Currently, there are virtually no details available about what Larian's follow-up to Baldur's Gate 3 will be. In mid-2024, Larian opened a new studio to support the development of two ambitious RPGs, though it's unclear whether they will proceed with both projects or focus on just one. Speculation among gamers suggests that Larian might leverage their experience with Baldur's Gate 3 to create Divinity: Original Sin 3, or they could venture into a completely new IP. The details are likely to remain under wraps for the foreseeable future.

As for the future of the Baldur's Gate franchise, it remains uncertain. With Larian stepping away, Wizards of the Coast faces the challenge of finding a new developer to carry on the series, with any future installment likely to be measured against the high standards set by Baldur's Gate 3. On a positive note, several actors from Baldur's Gate 3 have expressed willingness to reprise their roles in future titles, even without Larian's involvement, suggesting the possibility of familiar faces in future iterations.