Baldur’s Gate 3 Developer Says No to Game Pass and Other Subscriptions

One of the most anticipated role-playing games of 2024 is Baldur’s Gate 3, but it won’t be available on Xbox Game Pass or any other subscription service anytime soon. Larian Studios, the game’s developer, has pledged to keep its titles out of subscription models, expressing concern about their possible effects on the gaming industry.

Swen Vincke, the CEO of Larian Studios, recently discussed the creation of Baldur’s Gate 3, which is presently available in early access on PC and Stadia, with Game Infinitus. He disclosed that the game will not be available on consoles anytime soon because the firm is concentrating on making it as PC-friendly as possible first. Additionally, he stated that the game would not be included in any subscription services like EA Play, Xbox Game Pass, or PlayStation Now.

According to Vincke, subscription models may put pressure on developers to produce games more quickly or to include features that don’t align with their goals. According to him, Larian Studios would rather deal directly with its clients and provide them with a comprehensive and fulfilling experience..

It is not Vincke alone who voices skepticism about subscription services. A number of developers for similar reasons also say they are wary of joining the subscription services, including CD Projekt Red. A number of analysts have also warned that subscription models risk leading to less diversity and creativity in the games industry and less cash for producers.

Yet not all are against subscriptions. Developers such as Obsidian Entertainment have so far hailed Xbox Game Pass as allowing them to have more exposure and creative freedom. Many gamers, too, have embraced subscriptions as one way of playing a large library of games for a small monthly fee.

Subscriptions are all but the rage now among platforms and publishers, and debate will no doubt go on. Universally deemed to be at the forefront of this sector is Xbox Game Pass, which currently has over 18 million members. That subscription service offers day-one access to all Microsoft first-party games, along with over 100+ games for both PC and console. PlayStation Now allows access to more than 800 games for PC and console users, with a few ways to stream them, boasting more than 2.2 million subscribers; EA Play does similarly, boasting over 6.5 million subscribers with over 70 titles from their portfolio and early access, along with some exclusive benefits. Other services like Stadia, Luna, and Ubisoft+ are also throwing their hats into the mix in an effort to ensure that their presence is felt within the current market.

While the Baldur’s Gate 3 release date is yet to be announced, it is still a work in progress. The game uses the ruleset from Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition as well as being a part of the sequel series that started way back in 1998 as one of the greatest RPGs. Some features include turn-based combat, multiplayer co-op, advanced character customization, and an elaborate storyline. This game has received critical acclaim from both critics and fans alike in its graphical quality, gameplay, and storytelling.

Until it launches properly, Baldur’s Gate 3- currently available on Steam and Stadia for $59.99, will be patched and updated regularly. It’ll launch on consoles at some point, but nothing has been announced just yet. It also won’t come to any subscription services, and will only be available as a one-time purchase.