Hasbro, the powerhouse behind Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), is setting its sights on the digital gaming realm following the triumph of Baldur’s Gate 3. According to Dan Ayoub, head of game studios at Hasbro, the overwhelming response to Baldur’s Gate 3 has underscored the demand for exceptional D&D experiences in the gaming community.
In an exclusive interview with GamesRadar+ during the Game Developers Conference, Ayoub expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re all super excited by the reaction to [Baldur’s Gate]. I think it proved for us that people want great D&D games. We’re certainly doing that.”
While D&D has a storied history in the gaming world, recent years had seen a decline in digital adaptations, save for a few exceptions like Neverwinter. However, the release of Baldur’s Gate 3 breathed new life into the genre, aligning with D&D’s resurgence in popularity. Ayoub notes that the success of Baldur’s Gate 3 highlights three critical points: the demand for high-quality D&D experiences, the potential for video games to attract new players to tabletop gaming, and the significance of allowing developers the time needed to craft exceptional titles.
Emphasizing the importance of meticulous development, Ayoub applauds Larian Studios’ approach with Baldur’s Gate 3, stating, “We’re going to have a long dev cycle and take the time we need to get it right.” This commitment to quality extends to Hasbro’s internal game development studios, where Ayoub asserts that they are adopting a similar approach to ensure their AAA titles resonate with audiences.
Looking ahead, Ayoub tantalizingly hints at another exciting D&D project in the works at Hasbro’s Montreal studio, promising more details to come. This project joins other notable endeavors such as the GI Joe Snake Eyes game and the new sci-fi IP Exodus, showcasing Hasbro’s dedication to fostering diverse gaming experiences.
As Hasbro continues to expand its gaming portfolio, Ayoub emphasizes their deliberate approach in creating studios tailored to specific game types. With a focus on quality and innovation, Hasbro is poised to redefine the landscape of D&D gaming for years to come.
