Recently, Larian Studios has officially passed on the responsibility of the Baldur’s Gate series to Wizards of the Coast, the owners of Dungeons & Dragons, and their parent company Hasbro. This decision means that there are no plans for any DLC or a sequel from the developers. With this move, the future of the Baldur’s Gate franchise now rests in the hands of Wizards of the Coast.
According to Eugene Evans, the senior VP for digital strategy and licensing at Wizards of the Coast, discussions about the next steps for Baldur’s Gate are already in progress. Evans mentioned that they are talking to various partners who are interested in taking on the challenge of determining what the future of the franchise will look like. While there is eagerness to move forward, Evans emphasized the importance of not rushing the process to ensure that the final product meets the high standards set by the previous games.
Evans also hinted at the possibility of beloved characters from Baldur’s Gate 3 making a return in future installments. Characters like Astarion, Shadowheart, and Karlach are considered essential parts of the Dungeons & Dragons canon, raising hopes among fans that they might reappear in upcoming games. While nothing is confirmed, the idea of continuity and character familiarity seems to be a priority for the developers.
Given the significant gap between the release of Baldur’s Gate 2 and 3, Wizards of the Coast is keen on not repeating such a lengthy wait for the next installment. However, Evans stressed that the priority is on finding the right partners and approach to ensure that the future of Baldur’s Gate is represented in the best possible way. Quality is paramount, and rushing into decisions is not an option when it comes to such a revered franchise.
The legacy of Baldur’s Gate is one that holds a prominent place in the world of video games. With Baldur’s Gate 3 spending years in early access before its full release, it is evident that patience is key when it comes to creating an exceptional gaming experience. The dedication to surpassing existing standards and meeting the expectations of devoted fans is a driving force behind the development process.
The future of the Baldur’s Gate series is in capable hands with Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro at the helm. While details about a potential sequel are still being ironed out, the commitment to quality and honoring the legacy of the franchise remains a top priority. Fans of the Baldur’s Gate series can rest assured that the next installment, whenever it arrives, will be a product of meticulous planning and careful consideration.
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