Summary
For most modern games, the post-launch era can be just as essential as pre-release announcements, with some games getting more content over time. This trend is even more customary when considering the extent of a video game’s commercial and critical success, and in the case ofBaldur’s Gate 3, many gamers anticipated a future full of DLC releases and expansions to fill out the already-beefy adventures in The Forgotten Realms. However, recent developments have popped the proverbial balloon of post-launch expectations, with Larian Studios announcing there would be no sequel or DLC forBaldur’s Gate 3. The announcement understandably shocked the RPG community and begs the question of whether the pros of ditching theDnD-based universe outweigh the cons for the developer.
Scoring a hit entry on the gaming market in the face of stiff competition is a remarkable feat, and after Larian Studios' unparalleled exploits whereBaldur’s Gate 3crossed the 10-million mark in salesand carted home multiple honors at The Game Awards 2023, gamers were looking forward to seeing the fantasy title develop into a household-name franchise over the coming years. That’s why the developer’s recent move to abandon the universe blindsided loyal fans and new converts alike. Larian has since explained the rationale behind its decision, but many can’t help but visualize an alternate reality where the franchise took up the mantle to dominate competition in the gaming industry.
No BG3 Expansions Could Be a Blessing in Disguise for Larian Studios
WhileBaldur’s Gate 3’s no-DLC newssounds bleak for fans looking for even more experiences in The Forgotten Realms, it isn’t the complete end of theBaldur’s Gate 3universe as fans know it. For one, the title has received six patches since its official release back in August, and their impact has extended beyond the typical minor bug fixes.
Regular Patches Have Replaced The Need for Traditional DLCs in BG3
These updates could easily be considered DLCs in their own right, withPatch 5 adding a brand-new epilogue in Novemberand Patch 6 introducing a host of romance-themed animations in the spirit of Valentine’s Day. Although the breaks between each patch release have started to stretch, fans can be confident that subsequent updates will bring a new dynamic toBG3’s already diverse scenery.
In the same vein, one could argue that continuing along theDnDpath through multiple expansion packs and sequels would restrict Larian Studios' creative freedom, which proved to be a critical ingredient forBaldur’s Gate 3’s success in the first place. DLCs can be a tricky minefield for developers to navigate, with their content often leaving much to be desired by way of storyline or gameplay impact, as the likes ofTiny Tina’s WonderlandsandFar Cry 6have discovered in recent years. The ability to quit while ahead is an underrated gift, and turning the page on the beloved magical world in favor of new projects could yet prove masterful.
No DLC Could Hamper Some Unborn Storylines in BG3
Ending the tale of The Forgotten Realms inBaldur’s Gate 3leaves gamers to wonder what could have been if the developer had decided to build out the comprehensive world even further through sequels and expansion packs. For starters, despite the extensive nature ofBG3, some components could still use some extra detail, highlighted by fans' desire to see aromance involving Raphael the Cambion. While such missing elements might be addressed in the future given the peculiar nature ofBaldur’s Gate 3’s updates, their delivery quality could have used a boost from the dedicated focus that comes with DLCs.
As such, there is a sentiment that Larian Studios is leaving money on the table with its no-DLC decision. A blueprint similar toGod of War Ragnarokwas there for the taking, although the rationale behind the approach is understandable. While fans can now speculate onLarian Studios' next big projectteased by CEO Swen Vincke, it remains to be seen if the developer made the right choice regardingBaldur’s Gate 3’s post-launch campaign.
