Larian CEO admits Baldur's Gate 3 team had to crunch a bit

Larian Studios CEO Swen Vincke has revealed that Baldur's Gate 3’s development involved some crunch, though significantly less than the studio's previous projects. The CEO emphasized that while there were instances of employees working overtime to meet deadlines, it was less frequent, with team members rarely staying past 8 PM or working weekends. This softer approach marks a deviation from the more intense crunch seen in the industry, as exemplified by companies like CD Projekt Red. Despite this, Vincke asserts that a bit of overtime is sometimes unavoidable due to the complexity of game development.

Did Larian Studios implement mandatory overtime for Baldur's Gate 3?

No, while some overtime was necessary to complete Baldur's Gate 3, it was not mandatory, and significant efforts were made to limit it compared to prior projects.

Baldur's Gate 3, based on the Dungeons & Dragons universe, launched to critical acclaim in 2023. Highlighted for its intricate RPG mechanics, engaging storyline, and immersive world, the game has set a new benchmark for computer RPGs (CRPGs). The game's success underscores Larian Studios' dedication to crafting deep, narrative-driven experiences, despite the challenges faced during development.