Baldur's Gate 3 Developer Says No to Game Pass and Other Subscriptions

Baldur’s Gate 3 is one of the most anticipated RPGs of 2024, but don’t expect to see it on Xbox Game Pass or any other subscription service anytime soon. The game’s developer, Larian Studios, has expressed its concern over the potential impact of subscription models on the gaming industry, and has vowed to keep its games out of them.

“Baldur’s Gate 2” by Johan Larsson is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Larian Studios CEO Swen Vincke recently spoke to Game Infinitus about the development of Baldur’s Gate 3, which is currently in early access on PC and Stadia. He revealed that the game will not be coming to consoles in the near future, as the studio is focused on optimizing the game for PC first. He also said that the game will not be part of any subscription service, such as Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Now, or EA Play.

Vincke explained that subscription models can create a pressure to churn out games quickly, or to add features that are not in line with the developer’s vision. He said that Larian Studios prefers to have a direct relationship with its customers, and to offer them a complete and satisfying experience.

Vincke is not the only one who has voiced his skepticism about subscription services. Other developers, such as CD Projekt Red, have also expressed their reluctance to join them, citing similar reasons. Some analysts have also warned that subscription models could lead to a loss of diversity and innovation in the gaming industry, as well as a lower revenue for developers.

However, not everyone is against subscriptions. Some developers, such as Obsidian Entertainment, have praised Xbox Game Pass for giving them more creative freedom and exposure. Some gamers have also embraced subscriptions as a way to access a large library of games for a low monthly fee.

The debate over subscriptions is likely to continue, as more and more platforms and publishers are adopting them. Xbox Game Pass, which has over 18 million subscribers, is widely seen as the leader of the pack, offering over 100 games for both console and PC, as well as day-one access to all Microsoft first-party titles. PlayStation Now, which has over 2.2 million subscribers, offers over 800 games for both console and PC, as well as some streaming options. EA Play, which has over 6.5 million subscribers, offers over 70 games from EA’s catalog, as well as some early access and discounts. Other services, such as Ubisoft+, Stadia, and Luna, are also trying to carve out their own niche in the market.

Baldur’s Gate 3, meanwhile, is still in development, and has no official release date yet. The game is a sequel to the classic RPG series that started in 1998, and is based on the Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition ruleset. The game features a rich story, a deep character customization, a turn-based combat system, and a multiplayer co-op mode. The game has received positive feedback from fans and critics alike, who have praised its graphics, gameplay, and storytelling.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is currently available for $59.99 on Steam and Stadia, and will receive regular updates and patches until its full launch. The game is expected to be released on consoles at some point, but no details have been given yet. The game will not be part of any subscription service, and will require a one-time purchase to play.