Larian Studios Shifts Focus to Its Next Game Following Baldur’s Gate 3’s Success

Larian Studios, the developer behind the critically acclaimed Baldur’s Gate 3, has announced it is now fully dedicated to creating its next title. With the majority of post-launch support for Baldur’s Gate 3 completed, the studio is turning its attention toward crafting a follow-up to its monumental 2023 success.

Before releasing Baldur’s Gate 3, Larian was already renowned for its contributions to the CRPG genre with the Divinity: Original Sin series. The studio’s expertise in developing complex role-playing games led it to inherit the Baldur’s Gate license from BioWare, delivering a game that captivated audiences worldwide. Garnering numerous Game of the Year awards and drawing in players new to the genre, Baldur’s Gate 3 set a new benchmark for CRPGs and significantly elevated Larian’s reputation.

Larian’s Statement and Future Plans

In a statement to VideoGamer, Larian confirmed that “Swen and the team’s full attention is focused on crafting their next title.” To maintain focus, the studio is entering a “media blackout,” minimizing external distractions during development.

While support for Baldur’s Gate 3 isn’t completely over—Patch 8 will introduce minor updates and features—Larian has signaled that its primary development efforts have shifted to its new project.

Speculations on Larian’s Next Title

Details about the studio’s upcoming game remain scarce. In mid-2024, the studio opened a new division to assist with two ambitious RPGs, but it’s unclear if both projects are still in development or if the focus has narrowed to one. Speculation within the gaming community ranges from a possible return to the Divinity: Original Sin series to an entirely new IP that builds on the studio’s Baldur’s Gate 3 expertise.

With the studio moving on, the future of the Baldur’s Gate franchise now lies with Wizards of the Coast. The challenge of developing a sequel that lives up to Baldur’s Gate 3’s high standard is immense. However, several actors from Baldur’s Gate 3 have expressed willingness to reprise their roles in future projects, ensuring some continuity for fans, even if Larian isn’t directly involved.