The early access release of Baldur's Gate III was shrouded in a fair share of controversy and police station. From unexpected delays to questionable release strategies, developer Larian Studios and publisher Wizards of the Coast navigated through choppy waters.
The initial announcement of the game came in June 2019, with a release date loosely set for August 2020. As the date approached, fans eagerly anticipated stepping into the beloved world of Baldur's Gate once again. However, the game's release was delayed multiple times, eventually launching in October 2020.
Significantly, the release was classified as Early Access, a term denoting that a game is still in its development stage. While this concept isn't new in the gaming industry, the application varies. Some developers offer complete games with minor bugs, while others present a skeleton of the promised game, leaving room for drastic changes.
For Baldur's Gate III, Larian Studios adopted a more radical strategy. They released an incomplete product, presenting only 25% of the gameplay. The developer aimed at involving the gaming community in the development process - using their feedback to shape the final product.
Public Reaction to Early Access Release
The decision to launch an unfinished game in early access mode drew mixed reactions from players. Some gamers welcomed it, excited about witnessing and contributing to the development process. However, others expressed their disappointment, feeling they had been served a raw deal, especially considering the game's price tag.
This rift in the gaming community amplified when Baldur's Gate III was nominated for the Game of The Year, an accolade reserved for polished, finished products. While some hailed the bold move, on the grounds that the game was impressive despite being incomplete, others derided the nomination as a farce.
Detractors argued that the award disrupted the gaming industry's norms. They opined that by nominating an unfinished product, the integrity of the awards cast in doubt. Supporters countered this by highlighting the high quality of content already offered in the early access version of Baldur's Gate III.
The Developer’s Perspective
For Larian Studios, the early access release was an opportunity to test and improve upon their product. By leveraging player feedback, they were able to identify glitches, balance gameplay, and refine the gaming experience for the final version. The nomination, therefore, served as validation for their efforts and an acknowledgment of the quality they'd achieved.
Furthermore, Larian Studios considered their early access model a form of progressive transparency. They believed it gave players a glimpse into the game's development, literally involving them in the creation of the final product.
From this perspective, the game's presentation to the public, despite it’s incomplete, was a bold move aimed at redefining engagement within the gaming industry. It allowed the developers to foster a deeper connection with their audience and better tailor the game to their needs and desires.
The Looming Impact
The decision to nominate Baldur's Gate III and Larian's early access release strategy leaves an indelible mark on the gaming industry. The bold move could inspire other developers to adopt a similar approach and shift the industry's norms regarding game releases and award considerations.
Some commentators argue that Larian Studios' decision could democratise game development. By including players' feedback in the development process, developers can create games that resonate more with their audience, embedding a touch of personalisation.
At the same time, the move also challenges conventions in the gaming award scene. By considering an unfinished product for a prestigious award, it expands the very definition of a 'game'. It’s no longer just about delivering a complete, polished product but acknowledging the effort and quality displayed throughout the development.
Ultimately, the release and awarding of Baldur's Gate III signals a shift within the gaming industry. How this influences the trajectory of future games, development strategies, and award presentations remains to be seen. Nevertheless, it is clear that Larian’s audacious approach has steered the community into uncharted territory. In the end, whether the voyage leads to an island of innovation or a sea of controversy will be determined by the industry’s response in the years to come.