Baldur's Gate 4 Was Playable But Ultimately Abandoned by Larian

Larian Studios, creators of the 2023 Game of the Year, Baldur's Gate 3, have revealed details about a shelved project: a Baldur's Gate 4.

A Playable, Yet Abandoned Sequel

Larian CEO Swen Vincke, in a PC Gamer interview, confirmed a playable Baldur's Gate 3 sequel was in development before the studio shifted focus. While acknowledging it was a project fans would have enjoyed, Vincke cited team fatigue after years of D&D-related development as the primary reason for its cancellation. The prospect of potentially another three years of extensive rework on a similar project led to the decision.

The team prioritized pursuing original ideas, a move that significantly boosted morale. Vincke emphasized the renewed creative energy and excitement within the studio following this decision. Both Baldur's Gate 4 and planned BG3 DLC were abandoned for the same reasons.

Looking Ahead: New Projects and the Future of Divinity

Larian is now concentrating on two unannounced projects, described by Vincke as their most ambitious yet. While a Divinity: Original Sin sequel is anticipated, Vincke clarified it won't be Divinity: Original Sin 3, hinting at a departure from fan expectations. This aligns with his earlier statement about a Divinity sequel being "definitely on the horizon."

Baldur's Gate 3 will receive one final major patch in Fall 2024, incorporating mod support, cross-play, and new evil endings.