A new chapter in the Divinity series is on the horizon, and it’s causing quite the stir in the gaming community. Recent reports have revealed that the upcoming game will feature a turn-based combat system, aimed at surpassing the critically acclaimed Baldur’s Gate 3 in both scope and quality, and all in less time. However, the initial excitement was met with some controversy, as the studio faced backlash over its use of AI in development, prompting Larian CEO Swen Vincke to release a statement clarifying the situation.
Expanding the Divinity Universe
Larian Studios’ founder, Swen Vincke, has been engaging in discussions about the future of Divinity, particularly during The Game Awards 2025 where the game was officially announced. In an interview, Vincke highlighted a major shift in focus for the upcoming title: enhanced worldbuilding. “We learned the value of having a solid universe behind you,” he noted, emphasizing the studio’s commitment to creating a cohesive and enriched world. Unlike previous entries, which often bore different names and lacked a unified universe, this installment will simply be titled Divinity, promising a robust and richly detailed setting.
Setting the Stage for Success
Reflecting on previous games like Divinity: Original Sin 2, Vincke admitted that universe-building was not always a priority. However, the success of Baldur’s Gate 3, set in the well-established Forgotten Realms, has taught the studio the importance of deeply detailed settings. Larian aims to elevate the world of Rivellon to match the depth of renowned fantasy worlds such as The Elder Scrolls and The Witcher. The team is considering transmedia strategies, exploring avenues like novels and animated series to deepen the connection between fans and the game’s universe.
As development progresses, there’s a concerted effort to enrich the lore and depth of the setting, incorporating features that allow players to delve into the universe’s history and intricacies. Despite the ambitious goal to complete the game faster than Baldur’s Gate 3’s six-year development cycle, Larian is dedicated to maintaining high standards of quality. Stay tuned for further updates as this exciting project unfolds.