The debate over the vitality of big single-player games has resurfaced, with Larian Studios CEO Swen Vincke offering a definitive stance on the matter. Known for steering the development of the acclaimed single-player game Baldur's Gate 3, Vincke took to X/Twitter to address the recurring claim that such games are "dead." His response was clear and succinct: "Use your imagination. They're not. They just have to be good." This statement underscores Vincke's belief in the enduring appeal of well-crafted single-player experiences.
Vincke's perspective carries weight, given Larian Studios' track record. The studio has built a formidable reputation through its work on critically acclaimed CRPGs such as Divinity: Original Sin and Divinity: Original Sin 2, culminating in the success of Baldur's Gate 3. His insights, often shared during high-profile events like The Game Awards, consistently highlight the importance of passion in game development, respect for both developers and players, and a genuine commitment to the craft. This latest commentary reaffirms his dedication to quality over trends.
The year 2025 has already witnessed the success of another major single-player title, Warhorse Studios' Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, proving that there is still a strong market for such games. With many months still to come, the stage is set for more single-player games to capture the gaming community's attention.
Despite the triumph of Baldur's Gate 3, Larian Studios has decided to move on from both the Baldur's Gate series and the Dungeons & Dragons franchise to focus on creating a new intellectual property. At this year's Game Developers Conference, Dan Ayoub, SVP of digital games at Hasbro, hinted that fans might soon receive updates on the future of the Baldur's Gate series, keeping the excitement alive for what's next in this beloved franchise.