Baldur’s Gate 3 was a major success and set a new standard for any future RPGs. The game captivated player’s hearts with its immersive world, engaging storytelling, and countless opportunities for replayability.
After its release on Steam (August 2023), the game launched on PlayStation 5 a month later, and later that year, it was released on Xbox Series X/S (December). Larian Studios’ subtle hints in an interview revealed that they were offered a deal from Xbox Game Pass, but it was not lucrative enough for them to accept.
Insights from Larian Studios’ CEO on The Xbox Game Pass Offer
In an interview, Larian Studios’ CEO Swen Vincke was discussing the game’s ending and details about a few characters. When asked about Xbox’s approach to include the game in their Game Pass. Vincke dodged the question but not without hinting few things. He said:
These are sensitive questions. So look, we are in the business of making a game that has a beginning, middle, and an end. We made a big game, so I think there’s a fair price to be paid for that, and I think that that is okay. Upfront it’s a big meaty game. So I think that should be able to exist as it is. This is what allows us to continue making other games.
Vincke hints show that Xbox did approach them with an offer to get the game into Game Pass but the terms of the deal were not lucrative enough. The platform has its own advantages with its subscription-based model that offers access to a vast variety of games at a cheaper cost.
With the critical success of Baldur’s Gate 3, any platform would want to add the game to their library, and Xbox was no different as they saw the player’s undivided attention towards the game.
However, despite the benefits of reaching a wider audience, Larian declined the Xbox’s Game Pass offer. From Vincke’s response, it looks like the deal was not beneficial for the game studio. This strategic move to decline the offer shows that the studio wants to prioritize its vision and maintain flexibility in its distribution strategy.
Commitment to Creative Vision and Strategic Goals with Baldur’s Gate 3
Larian Studios’ commitment to delivering a game that not only follows its creative vision but also meets its strategic goals is obvious. Sometimes, fans forget that it takes a lot of resources and manpower to create a game at this level. The game is filled with so much content, and distributing it at lower prices undermines the value of the hard work put into it.
While Xbox Game Pass remains a formidable platform for future partnerships, it is clear that Baldur’s Gate 3 won’t be coming to Game Pass any time soon.
As Baldur’s Gate 3 continues to evolve and captivate gamers worldwide, the decision to decline Xbox Game Pass’s offer serves as a testament to the studio’s principles. It highlights the complex decision-making process required in the gaming industry, where the game’s success often depends on negotiating complex partnerships and understanding market dynamics.
