Larian Studios has confirmed it is working on two new projects based on original IPs.
Earlier this year, the studio confirmed it would not be working on Baldur’s Gate 4, nor would it be developing any significant new content for Baldur’s Gate 3. As part of a blog detailing an upcoming patch for the game though, Larian explained what is next for the studio.
“After six years in the Forgotten Realms and much discussion and rumination, we’ve decided to seize this opportunity to develop our own IPs. We’re currently working on two new projects and we couldn’t be more excited about what the future has in store,” the post explained.
Both projects are in the “early days” of development “but know that even as our focus turns to these new games, the sensibilities that brought you Baldur’s Gate 3 are alive and well here at the Larian castle,” the post said. “We’re fuelled by the very same fire in our bellies, one that drives us to create immersive experiences shaped by your choices, and we can’t wait for you to join us on this next adventure.”
In a bid to calm any worries about these new ventures, Larian also shared a statement from CEO Swen Vincke. “I don’t know if we’re going to pull it off, but looking at our narrative, visual and gameplay plans, I think what we’re working on now will be our best work ever. I get excited like a kid watching the key imagery, want to show it to everyone now and grumble in frustration at having to wait until it’s actually all working. Yes, it’s hype but it’s hype because it really looks and feels good.”
The BAFTAs really felt like the proper closure. I’m crazy hyped about what’s next but it’s going to take a while. https://t.co/hfWMUUzTfg
— Swen Vincke @where? (@LarAtLarian) April 18, 2024
In January, Vincke confirmed the next project from Larian is “not what you think” and said fans should be “very excited” about the future, following the news the studio wouldn’t be continuing with the Baldur’s Gate franchise.
However earlier this week, Hasbro and Wizards Of The Coast confirmed that the Baldur’s Gate IP was back under their control and they were already looking at the next instalment.
“We’re now talking to lots of partners and being approached by a lot of partners who are embracing the challenge of, what does the future of the Baldur’s Gate franchise look like? We certainly hope that it’s not another 25 years before we answer that,” said vice president of digital strategy and licensing, Eugene Evans. “We’re going to take our time and find the right partner, the right approach, and the right product that could represent the future of Baldur’s Gate.”
In other news, the team behind Cities: Skylines 2 has apologised to players for a “rushed” expansion pack and delayed the console release of the city builder game.