For avid gamers eyeing the prospect of Baldur’s Gate 3 joining the Game Pass library on Xbox, disappointment looms. Larian Studios’ captivating RPG will continue to stand as a premium offering, requiring enthusiasts to make a direct purchase. However, rest assured, the investment is well justified. In my comprehensive Baldur’s Gate 3 review, the game earned an exceptional score of 97%.
In a recent conversation with IGN, Larian CEO Swen Vincke emphasized that the decision to keep the game off Game Pass was intentional from the beginning. “Oh, we always said from the get-go, it wasn’t going to be on Game Pass, it’s not going to be on Game Pass.”
This move aligns with Larian’s historical approach, as none of their previous titles have found their way onto subscription services. Vincke defends the upfront cost, asserting that it offers substantial value to players and is crucial for the studio’s future endeavors. “We made a big game, so I think there’s a fair price to be paid for that, and I think that that is okay. We don’t charge you any micro-transactions on top of it, so you get what you pay for. Upfront it’s a big meaty game. So I think that should be able to exist as it is. This is what allows us to continue making other games.”
Despite Game Pass boasting a vast array of games and support from major players like EA, it has its critics, with some developers claiming it negatively impacts sales. Jumpship and Playdead founder Dino Patti, earlier in the year, mentioned that Somerville’s launch was hindered by its inclusion on Game Pass. “I also think it hurts sales. Because a lot of people just go in and try it and they don’t invest.”
Larian, however, sees little incentive in a Game Pass launch. On Steam, Baldur’s Gate 3 continues to hold a strong position, currently ranking 7th in the charts since its August release. While Larian hasn’t disclosed specific numbers, the game’s widespread acclaim, high concurrent player count, and sustained interest suggest it has performed exceptionally well. Given the title’s success at full price and its existing visibility, Game Pass appears to offer minimal advantages.
While Game Pass subscribers may be disappointed, this development is a positive signal for the gaming industry. The success of a traditional CRPG from an independent studio, even one with Tencent as a shareholder, without relying on a zero upfront cost model, challenges the notion of an industry where games are predominantly accessed through subscription platforms like Game Pass.
