Larian Studios Shifts Focus to New Game, Enforces Media Blackout

Larian Studios, the developer behind the critically acclaimed Baldur’s Gate 3, has announced a shift in focus to its next major project, implementing a "media blackout" for the foreseeable future. This move comes even as fans eagerly await the release of Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8, expected later this year, which will further enhance the Dungeons & Dragons role-playing experience.

Swen Vincke, the head of Larian, recently took to Twitter to reminisce about the studio's journey, emphasizing the immense success of Baldur’s Gate 3. "But the story ain't over yet," Vincke teased, hinting at exciting developments on the horizon. In a statement to VideoGamer, Larian confirmed that the entire team's focus is now on crafting their next title, which will not be a sequel to Baldur’s Gate 3 or any other D&D game. Instead, it's a completely new project that the studio is eager to explore.

Got me all nostalgic - it really has been an incredible journey so far. But the story ain't over yet. Stay tuned. Going to try to skip the dark night of the soul moment though if you don't mind. https://t.co/eLSTv3CXb4

— Swen Vincke @where? (@LarAtLarian) January 10, 2025

Back in November 2023, Vincke hinted at the studio’s next project, expressing excitement about pushing boundaries. "I wish I could tell you about our next big game but this is really encouraging us to ensure it pushes many boundaries," he said, amid Baldur’s Gate 3’s numerous nominations at The Game Awards.

In July 2023, before Baldur’s Gate 3’s explosive launch, Vincke also mentioned the potential for a sequel to Larian’s Divinity: Original Sin series. "It's our own universe we built, so we're definitely gonna get back there at some point," he told IGN, although he cautioned that fans should not expect it immediately. "We will get back there at some point. We'll first finish [Baldur's Gate 3], and then take a break, because we will need to refresh ourselves creatively also. You’re seeing 400 developers putting their heart and souls into this. You’re getting the best of them and their craft into this game. And so I can tell you, it's quite a thing."

While the next game from Larian won't be a continuation of Baldur’s Gate or a D&D title, speculation abounds about what direction the studio might take. Could it be a foray into science fiction, a modern-day setting, or perhaps an entirely new genre? Given Larian’s history with fantasy RPGs, a shift to a different universe or genre could be on the cards.

It might be years before we learn more about Larian's mysterious new project, but one thing is clear: the studio's commitment to innovation and excellence in game development remains unwavering.