The debate about the vitality of big single-player games has resurfaced, and this time, Swen Vincke, CEO of Larian Studios and the mastermind behind the critically acclaimed single-player game Baldur's Gate 3, has firmly entered the conversation. Taking to X/Twitter, Vincke addressed the recurring claim that single-player games are "dead," stating, "Use your imagination. They're not. They just have to be good." His assertion carries significant weight given Larian's track record of delivering exceptional CRPGs such as Divinity: Original Sin and Divinity: Original Sin 2, culminating in the success of Baldur's Gate 3.
Vincke is no stranger to making impactful statements, often sharing his insights at events like The Game Awards. His focus has consistently been on the passion for game development, respect for both developers and players, and a genuine care for the games themselves. This perspective adds depth to his stance on the ongoing debate about the relevance of single-player games.
The year 2025 has already witnessed the success of another major single-player title, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 from Warhorse Studios, indicating that there's still a robust appetite for such games. With many months remaining, the stage is set for more single-player games to capture the spotlight.
In a bold move, Larian has chosen to step away from the Baldur's Gate series and Dungeons & Dragons to focus on creating a new IP. During this year's Game Developers Conference, Dan Ayoub, SVP of digital games at Hasbro, hinted that fans might soon learn more about the future of the Baldur's Gate series, suggesting that the legacy of single-player gaming continues to evolve and thrive.
