When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the CEO of Larian Studios, Swen Vincke, found himself in a difficult position. With development on Baldur’s Gate 3 already well underway at the company’s studio in St. Petersburg, the war forced him to make a quick decision. Vincke reveals that he had already thought about the possibility of having to relocate the studio in case of such an event. The decision to close down the studio and move the staff was instant, as he realized that they couldn’t stay in Russia amidst the chaos of war.
Relocating the Team
More than 90% of the team working at the St. Petersburg studio had to be relocated to ensure their safety and to avoid the possibility of them being mobilized for war. Vincke mentions that working with embassies and consulates to facilitate the relocation wasn’t an easy task. It was a challenging process, but a necessary one to ensure that the development of Baldur’s Gate 3 continued smoothly. The decision to move the staff wasn’t just about preventing them from being drafted into the military but also about ensuring the completion of the game. Vincke emphasizes the complexity of game development, especially in an RPG, where every element is interconnected. Any disruptions in the process could result in the collapse of the entire project.
Impact on Development
The aftermath of the studio closure had a significant impact on the development of Baldur’s Gate 3. Vincke describes the fallout as “really, really hard” and mentions that the effects lasted throughout the end of development. The ripple effect of relocating the studio resulted in compromises and cuts being made in the final product. Nearly 18 months of adjustments and challenges had to be overcome due to the relocation, highlighting the immense difficulties faced by the team during this period. Despite the obstacles, Larian Studios managed to persevere and complete the game, demonstrating their resilience in the face of adversity.
The challenges of relocating a game development studio during a time of war are immense. Swen Vincke’s decisive action and determination to ensure the safety and continuation of Baldur’s Gate 3 exemplify the dedication and commitment required to overcome such obstacles. The experience serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the industry and the importance of adaptability in the face of unprecedented challenges.
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