Larian CEO: Single-Player Games Thrive if Quality is High

The debate over whether big single-player games are "dead" has resurfaced, and this time, Swen Vincke, the CEO of Larian Studios and the mastermind behind the blockbuster hit Baldur's Gate 3, has firmly entered the conversation. In a recent post on X/Twitter, Vincke addressed the recurring claim that single-player games are on their way out, stating, "Use your imagination. They're not. They just have to be good." His assertion is backed by the undeniable success of Larian's titles, from the critically acclaimed Divinity: Original Sin series to the monumental Baldur's Gate 3, demonstrating that quality single-player experiences can still thrive in today's gaming landscape.

Vincke is no stranger to making impactful statements. Whether on stage at The Game Awards or through other media, he consistently emphasizes the importance of passion in game development, respect for both developers and players, and a genuine care for the craft. His latest comments on the state of single-player games reinforce these values, suggesting that the genre's vitality hinges on the quality and creativity of the games produced.

The year 2025 has already showcased the potential for single-player games with the release of Warhorse Studios' Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, which has been well-received. With several months left in the year, there's ample opportunity for other single-player titles to make their mark and capture the attention of gamers worldwide.

Larian Studios, fresh off the success of Baldur's Gate 3, has chosen to move away from both the Baldur's Gate series and Dungeons & Dragons to focus on developing a new intellectual property (IP). This decision reflects their commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of what single-player games can achieve. Meanwhile, at 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, keeping the community engaged and hopeful for what's to come.