Larian Studios head Swen Vincke has confirmed Baldur’s Gate 3 will launch on Xbox Collection X|S later in 2023. 

“Completely satisfied to verify that after assembly [Phil Spencer],” he wrote, “we’ve discovered an answer that enables us to deliver Baldur’s Gate 3 to Xbox gamers this 12 months nonetheless, one thing we’ve been working in the direction of for fairly a while.”

Earlier within the 12 months, Larian indicated it could take longer than anticipated for the Xbox model of its hit RPG to launch. On the time, this was attributed partially to the Xbox Collection S console particularly, however Vincke has now stated modifications have been carried out to deliver the sport to each methods. 

Whereas each the Collection X and Collection S variations can have “all enhancements” and fixes at the moment discovered within the PC and upcoming PlayStation 5 model, Vincke stated split-screen co-op is strictly on the Collection X. Nevertheless, he stated the sport “will even embrace cross-save development between Steam and Xbox Collection.”

One factor value noting, nevertheless, is that parity between a recreation’s Collection X and Collection S variations is a requirement for showing on the consoles. A rule states that builders should “guarantee that similar recreation modes are provided throughout console varieties throughout the technology.”

Whether or not it is a particular case of constructing an exception or indicative of a bigger change to how Xbox views its two current-generation consoles is at the moment unclear.

Roll for consoles

With an Xbox Collection model coming later within the 12 months, Baldur’s Gate 3 has one of many shortest turnarounds from PC to console for a Larian recreation.

The Divinity Authentic Sin video games initially launched in 2014 and 2017, respectively. Their console variations (billed as ‘Enhanced Editions’ for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One) launched the next 12 months after their preliminary PC launch.

Nevertheless, each of these console ports have been every dealt with by a distinct developer, particularly Focus Dwelling Interactive and Bandai Namco. This marks the primary console port Larian has dealt with by itself since 2010’s Divinity II. (Totally different from Divinity: Authentic Sin II.)

Popping out on three completely different methods with weeks or months other than one another helps Baldur’s Gate 3’s first-year lifecycle. Not solely does it guarantee the sport stays within the public dialog, the quick staggered launched date makes it really feel a bit extra just like the eventful title that it is shaping as much as be.

Tremendous glad to verify that after assembly @XboxP3 yesterday, we’ve discovered an answer that enables us to deliver Baldur’s Gate 3 to Xbox gamers this 12 months nonetheless, one thing we’ve been working in the direction of for fairly a while.

— Swen Vincke @the place? (@LarAtLarian) August 24, 2023