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Full Breakdown

Larian Studios Unveils Divinity: A New Turn-Based RPG

12/16/2025, 10:15:48 PM

Announcement and Game Details

Larian Studios, renowned for its success with Baldur's Gate 3, has officially announced Divinity, the next installment in its long-standing Divinity series, during The Game Awards 2025. The studio's founder and CEO, Swen Vincke, confirmed in an interview with Bloomberg that Divinity will be a turn-based RPG, aligning with the gameplay style that has defined the studio's recent successes. Vincke described the upcoming title as "us unleashed," indicating a significant expansion in scope and ambition compared to previous entries. He stated, "This is going to be us unleashed, I think. It's a turn-based RPG featuring everything you've seen from us in the past, but it's brought to the next level."

Development Context

Following the massive success of Baldur's Gate 3, which sold over 20 million copies, Larian Studios pivoted from plans to create another Dungeons & Dragons game to focus on Divinity. Vincke noted that the team was not excited about continuing with D&D, leading them to return to the Divinity universe, which has been a foundational aspect of the studio since its inception. The development team aims to create a new ruleset tailored specifically for video games, moving away from the complexities of tabletop systems that were challenging to adapt.

Gameplay Innovations

Vincke emphasized that Divinity will offer players "agency at every level," enhancing character development and narrative choices. He hinted at innovative gameplay mechanics that players have not encountered before in RPGs. The game will maintain a turn-based combat system, similar to Baldur's Gate 3, but with a new approach that aims to simplify understanding while providing depth for mastery. Vincke expressed confidence that Divinity will surpass its predecessor, stating, "Baldur's Gate 3 was a good game and I'm proud of it, but I think this one is going to be way better."

Early Access and Release Timeline

Larian Studios plans to release Divinity through an early access model, akin to the staggered release strategy used for Baldur's Gate 3. While no specific release dates have been announced, early access is anticipated around 2027, with a full launch potentially occurring in 2028 or 2029. The studio is also developing a new game engine to enhance performance and streamline the development process.

Community Response and Anticipation

The announcement of Divinity has reignited interest in Larian's previous titles, with a noticeable spike in player activity for Divinity: Original Sin 2 on platforms like Steam. This resurgence reflects the excitement surrounding the new game and the enduring popularity of Larian's RPGs. As fans await further details, the studio's commitment to innovation and quality continues to build anticipation for Divinity's eventual release.

Official Statements & Responses

Swen Vincke has acknowledged the pressure of meeting high expectations following the success of Baldur's Gate 3, stating, "It's more. It's more pressure. The weight of the expectations weighs high." He emphasized the importance of creating a game that excites both the developers and the players, reinforcing Larian's dedication to originality and quality in their upcoming projects.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “It's a turn-based RPG featuring everything you've seen from us in the past, but it's brought to the next level.” — Swen Vincke, CEO of Larian Studios
  • “Baldur's Gate 3 was a good game and I'm proud of it, but I think this one is going to be way better.” — Swen Vincke, CEO of Larian Studios
  • “Agency at every level. In the systems and how you can develop your character, your identity, and then also obviously in the narrative and the choices that you make.” — Swen Vincke, CEO of Larian Studios

As Larian Studios embarks on this ambitious new project, the gaming community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in the Divinity saga.