Larian Studios Shifts Focus to Next Game, Enforces 'Media Blackout'

Larian Studios, the developer behind the critically acclaimed Baldur’s Gate 3, has announced a shift in focus to their next project, entering a "media blackout" for the foreseeable future. While fans eagerly await the release of Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8 later this year, the studio is now directing its "full attention" toward crafting a new game.

Reflecting on their journey, Larian's CEO Swen Vincke recently tweeted about the studio's incredible success with Baldur’s Gate 3, hinting at more to come. "But the story ain't over yet," Vincke stated, stirring anticipation among fans.

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

In a statement to VideoGamer, Larian clarified that their next project will not be a sequel to Baldur’s Gate 3 nor another Dungeons & Dragons game. Instead, it's a completely new title, driven by the team's desire to explore fresh creative avenues after struggling to muster enthusiasm for a follow-up to Baldur’s Gate.

Back in November 2023, Vincke hinted at the ambitious nature of their next game, expressing excitement about pushing boundaries in response to Baldur’s Gate 3's numerous nominations at The Game Awards. Additionally, in July 2023, Vincke mentioned the possibility of returning to their Divinity: Original Sin series, although he cautioned that fans should not expect it anytime soon.

"It's our own universe we built, so we're definitely gonna get back there at some point," Vincke told IGN. "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."

As Larian ventures into uncharted territory, speculation abounds about the nature of their new game. Could it be a departure from fantasy RPGs into science fiction, a modern-day setting, or even a new genre altogether? With the studio's commitment to a media blackout, fans may have to wait years to discover what Larian has in store next.