The Evolution of Game Development at Larian Studios

Larian Studios has come a long way since the days of the Divinity: Original Sin era, where the team consisted of just a few dozen developers. According to Larian CEO Swen Vincke, the team’s size has grown significantly over the years, now approaching 500 employees across seven studios worldwide. This growth has allowed the studio to dedicate more time and resources to developing intricate stories and compelling characters for their games.

Vincke reflects on the early days of Divinity: Original Sin, where the team had limited time to focus on the game’s story and characters. He admits that in those days, the story was often seen as an afterthought, with the team rushing to develop it in just a few days. However, the success of the game served as a wake-up call for the studio, prompting them to prioritize these aspects in future projects.

Before the success of Baldur’s Gate 3, Vincke emphasized the importance of getting the combat system right and ensuring that players could enjoy the game with their friends. This focus on player experience has remained a core principle for Larian Studios, as they continue to refine and polish their games to provide the best possible experience for their audience.

With Baldur’s Gate 3’s early access period drawing to a close, Larian Studios has already begun discussions about their next projects. However, Vincke suggests that it may be some time before we hear about their upcoming games, as the studio takes the time to carefully develop and hone their ideas. The recent cancellation of a planned Baldur’s Gate 3 DLC has allowed the team to refocus their efforts and explore new directions for future titles.

Larian Studios’ journey from a small indie developer to a global powerhouse is a testament to their dedication to quality and player experience. By learning from past mistakes and continually striving to improve, the studio has solidified its reputation as a leading developer in the industry. As they continue to push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay, it’s clear that the best is yet to come for Larian Studios and its fans.