Baldur's Gate 4 Was Playable But Ultimately Abandoned by Larian

Larian Studios, creators of the 2023 Game of the Year, Baldur's Gate 3, have revealed intriguing details about abandoned projects. CEO Swen Vincke shared that a Baldur's Gate 3 sequel, and even DLC, were in development, with a playable version already existing. However, the team decided against further development.

A Playable Sequel, Then a Shift in Focus

The decision to shelve the "playable" BG3 follow-up, and a potential BG4, stemmed from the team's desire to pursue fresh, original ideas. Years invested in the Dungeons & Dragons IP led to a feeling of creative fatigue. The prospect of potentially another three years of development on a similar project proved unappealing. Vincke emphasized the team's renewed enthusiasm for pursuing their own concepts.

High Morale and New Beginnings

The decision to move on has resulted in significantly improved team morale. The studio is now focused on two undisclosed projects, described by Vincke as their most ambitious yet. A break from the Baldur's Gate franchise allows for exploration of new creative avenues.

The Future Beyond Baldur's Gate

While the specifics remain under wraps, Larian's future likely involves their Divinity series. While a Divinity: Original Sin 3 has been hinted at, Vincke clarified that their next Divinity project will be unexpected. The final major patch for Baldur's Gate 3, slated for Fall 2024, will introduce mod support, cross-play, and new endings.

This strategic shift signals a bold new chapter for Larian Studios, promising innovative and exciting projects to come.