One of the most debated topics in the gaming industry has resurfaced yet again: the notion that big single-player games are "dead." This time, Swen Vincke, the CEO of Larian Studios and the creative force behind the critically acclaimed single-player game Baldur's Gate 3, has shared his definitive stance on the matter.
In a post on X/Twitter, Vincke pointed out it's "that time of the year again when big single-player games are declared dead." His rebuttal was straightforward: "Use your imagination. They're not. They just have to be good."
Vincke's perspective carries significant weight, given Larian's track record of success with titles like Divinity: Original Sin and Divinity: Original Sin 2, culminating in the triumph of Baldur's Gate 3.
Vincke has a history of delivering succinct and insightful commentary, whether at events like The Game Awards or in public statements. He consistently highlights the importance of passion in game development, the respect for both developers and players, and a genuine care for the quality of the games produced. Thus, his latest comments on this recurring debate, while expected, offer a strong reaffirmation of the viability of single-player games.The year 2025 has already witnessed the success of a major single-player title with Warhorse Studios' Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2. With several months remaining, there's ample opportunity for more single-player games to shine.
Larian Studios has opted to move on from Baldur's Gate 3 and the Dungeons & Dragons franchise to develop a new intellectual property. During the Game Developers Conference this year, Dan Ayoub, SVP of digital games at Hasbro, hinted that updates on the future of the Baldur's Gate series could be on the horizon.