Baldur’s Gate 3 Developers Address Industry Issues and Player Experience in DICE Awards Acceptance Speech
Last week, Baldur’s Gate 3 took home the prestigious Game of the Year award at the DICE Awards. Unlike at The Game Awards, the developers were given the opportunity to deliver an acceptance speech that went beyond the usual time constraints. Larian Studios, the team behind Baldur’s Gate 3, seized this moment to not only express their gratitude but also to address some pressing issues within the gaming industry and emphasize the importance of player experience.
Michael Douse, Larian’s director of publishing, took to the stage and acknowledged the paradoxical nature of the gaming industry. He described it as a “really human industry” that often fails to recognize the true worth of its developers. Douse then delved into the wave of layoffs that has plagued numerous game development studios over the past year, highlighting the impact it has had on individuals and the industry as a whole.
Douse’s words carried a powerful message of encouragement and support for those affected by these layoffs. “I want you all to know that you are talented and that you matter, and that you are the future of this industry. Don’t let that flame be extinguished by our collective mistakes,” he said. He acknowledged the fear and uncertainty that permeates the industry, stating, “I know everyone here is scared because shit’s really fucked up.”
The speech continued with Douse expressing his belief in the resilience of the industry. “All of your projections are wrong and it’s scary,” he admitted. “But we persevere as an industry, we will persevere as an industry, and you will all find your place and you will all be welcomed back with open arms. And we’ll still be making games for the players, and for you, and with these guys.”
Following Douse’s heartfelt address, David Walgrave, Larian’s head of production, took the microphone. He acknowledged the curiosity surrounding the studio’s success and proceeded to reveal the “secret” behind it. Walgrave explained that their decision-making process revolves around one fundamental question: “What does the player want?” This player-centric approach, according to Walgrave, has been the driving force behind their achievements.
Walgrave emphasized the importance of pushing boundaries and defying limitations. He shared that whenever someone claimed something couldn’t be done, it only fueled the Baldur’s Gate 3 team’s determination to prove them wrong. The developer also highlighted Larian’s commitment to providing players with a fair deal. They ask for one price for the game, and once purchased, players own it for life.
In a surprising twist, Walgrave mentioned that Larian doesn’t prioritize shareholders in their decision-making process. He stated, “We don’t have shareholders, but we also don’t think about them.” This statement was met with applause from the audience. Walgrave emphasized that Larian’s focus has always been on treating players and gamers the way they would like to be treated themselves. Their aim is not solely to maximize profits but to build a strong community, a loyal player base, and most importantly, to create games that are genuinely fun.
Larian’s speech at the DICE Awards resonated with many on social media, especially in contrast to recent statements made by publishing conglomerate Embracer. Embracer’s overruling principle is to prioritize maximizing shareholder value, which stands in stark contrast to Larian’s player-centric approach. Embracer’s restructuring program, announced in June last year, has resulted in layoffs and the cancellation of projects such as a new Deus Ex game.
Larian Studios’ acceptance speech at the DICE Awards served as a reminder of the human element within the gaming industry and the significance of prioritizing player experience. It highlighted the need for a shift in focus, away from short-term gains and towards building a strong community and creating games that truly resonate with players. As the industry continues to evolve, Larian’s words serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for both developers and gamers alike.