Baldur's Gate 3: The Xbox Game Pass Update

The Success of Baldur's Gate 3

Larian Studios CEO Swen Vincke recently provided an update on the highly popular RPG, Baldur's Gate 3, and its availability on Xbox Game Pass. This update comes in the wake of a massively successful year for Larian Studios and the game itself. After spending a couple of years in Early Access, Baldur's Gate 3 finally launched earlier this year and quickly garnered praise from critics and players alike. The positive word of mouth surrounding the game ultimately led to it being awarded Game of the Year at the 2023 Game Awards, surpassing major contenders such as Alan Wake 2 and Marvel's Spider-Man 2.

Baldur's Gate 3 Wallpaper

The success of Baldur's Gate 3 has been undeniable, with its launch on PC and PS5 receiving widespread acclaim. However, the Xbox version of the game faced delays in its release due to challenges in implementing split-screen functionality on the Series S console to match the capabilities of the more powerful Series X version. Despite these hurdles, the launch of Baldur's Gate 3 on Xbox was celebrated by fans, sparking curiosity about its potential availability on Xbox Game Pass.

Xbox Game Pass Update

In a recent interview, Larian Studios founder and CEO, Swen Vincke, addressed the anticipated question of whether Baldur's Gate 3 would join Xbox Game Pass. Vincke clarified that placing Baldur's Gate 3 on Game Pass was never part of the studio's initial plan. He emphasized the game's definitive narrative structure, devoid of microtransactions, as a core reason for this decision.

While the immediate future does not indicate Baldur's Gate 3's arrival on Game Pass, Vincke left room for potential changes down the road, citing the shifting landscape of Game Pass and the studio's satisfaction with the game's independent success. He highlighted the absence of microtransactions and the game's substantial content as factors that justify its standalone existence and contribute to the studio's ability to pursue future projects.

Furthermore, leaked documents during the Microsoft and FTC trial revealed initial skepticism from Xbox leadership about adding Baldur's Gate 3 to Game Pass. However, the game's reception and success have refuted these early estimations, underscoring Larian Studios' belief in the game's potential and the significant leap of faith that has paid off.

The Future of Baldur's Gate 3

The current stance indicates that Baldur's Gate 3 is not slated for an imminent release on Xbox Game Pass. However, the evolving nature of the gaming industry and the track record of Game Pass hint at the possibility of changes in the future. Larian Studios remains committed to allowing the game to stand on its own, leveraging its high review scores, positive word of mouth, and accolades garnered in 2023.

Vincke emphasized the value of the game as a substantial, microtransaction-free experience that justifies its standalone existence and supports the studio's ongoing endeavors. The success of Baldur's Gate 3 serves as a testament to the studio's vision and dedication, despite initial doubts from industry figures.