### Larian’s Upcoming Divinity RPG: Expectations and Development Timeline

Larian Studios, renowned for their successful title *Baldur’s Gate 3*, is currently developing a new RPG within the *Divinity* universe. CEO Swen Vincke has stated an ambitious timeline, hoping to release the game in “three to four years” which includes an anticipated early access phase. This timeframe represents a significantly shorter development period compared to the six years it took to launch *Baldur’s Gate 3*, a duration that was partially extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In April 2024, Larian officially announced that they were working on not one, but two new games, which has excited fans and industry watchers alike. This leads to speculation that the next *Divinity* title could potentially exit early access by 2027 or 2028, providing an intriguing glimpse into the studio’s development strategy.

Vincke emphasized the need for a more efficient development cycle, sharing in an interview that parallel development of quests and storylines could enhance productivity. To assist this process, Larian has expanded its workforce to 530 employees across seven locations, including a newly established studio in Warsaw. This increase in personnel aims to allow for a broader and deeper creative output.

Despite the push for a faster timeline, Vincke acknowledged the inherent unpredictability of the creative process. He noted that the prolonged development of *Baldur’s Gate 3* resulted in a better product, as it allowed developers to thoroughly explore concepts and identify what would or would not work in the final game. This delicate balance between speed and quality is a recurring challenge in game development.

Another aspect of Larian’s development approach is the limited use of generative AI. The studio has reportedly employed generative AI tools to support tasks like concept art and internal presentations, though Vincke clarified that the final game content remains entirely human-created. While some developers have shown resistance to these AI tools, Vincke believes that the team has largely come to terms with their usage. However, the expected efficiency gains from AI integration have not yet materialized, leaving some uncertainty about its role in the production process.

Vincke’s remarks on the potential downsides of scaling up operations highlight the complexities of managing a growing company. He expressed concern about the additional responsibilities that come with increased size, suggesting that managing a larger workforce introduces challenges that were previously unconsidered.

In a recent discussion regarding the path forward for the new *Divinity* RPG, Vincke confirmed that this title will be a turn-based CRPG, drawing from the successful mechanics of *Divinity: Original Sin 2*. He hinted at a darker narrative direction compared to *Baldur’s Gate 3*, stirring curiosity about the thematic evolution of the franchise.

While uncertainty persists regarding the impact of factors like AI on productivity and creative output, Larian’s commitment to a faster development cycle for their new project reflects a willingness to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing gaming industry. As the studio continues to balance artistic integrity with operational efficiency, the anticipation surrounding the next *Divinity* title continues to grow among fans.