The release of Baldur’s Gate III on Xbox platforms may be delayed until 2024, according to Michael Douse, Director of Publishing at Larian Studios. In a tweet, Douse mentioned some technical issues on the platform and clarified that the absence of a release date is not due to exclusivity. While the PC version of BG3 is set to launch on August 3 and the PS5 version on September 6, there have been no updates regarding the release for Xbox Series S/X. The studio is facing challenges with implementing split-screen co-op on the lower-end Xbox Series S consoles, which is causing the delay.
In a follow-up tweet, Douse explained that the issue is a technical hurdle that they can’t bypass and that they are trying their best to make split-screen co-op work. The Xbox Series S has been a topic of debate recently, with some claiming that its limitations, such as running games at 30fps, are inhibiting next-gen gaming. However, in the case of Baldur’s Gate 3, the console seems to be affecting the release on the entire current-gen Xbox ecosystem, including both Series S and Series X. The team is dedicating resources to solve the challenge of including split-screen co-op and hopes to provide an update by the end of the year.
We have quite a few engineers working very hard to do what no other RPG of this scale has achieved: seamless drop-in, drop-out co-op on Series S. We hope to have an update by the end of the year.
— Very AFK (@Cromwelp) July 31, 2023
Although fans might be frustrated that PC and PS5 owners will get to play Baldur’s Gate 3 earlier, Larian Studios CEO Swen Vincke emphasized in an interview that feature parity between both Xbox consoles is crucial for them, regardless of Microsoft’s desires. He acknowledged the team’s efforts to include the split-screen feature but highlighted the complexities involved due to the game’s vastness and the need for optimization. Vincke explained that the game runs smoothly when played with a single character, but split-screen co-op introduces additional on-screen activity that requires memory. For comparison, the Xbox Series X has 16 GB of RAM, while the Series S has 10GB.
The team is determined to achieve seamless drop-in and drop-out co-op on the Xbox Series S, a feat not yet accomplished by an RPG of this scale. Baldur’s Gate 3 has already gained attention for its lengthy cinematics and diverse romance options, including one with a brown bear, which contributed to its success on Steam’s best sellers list. However, the developer confirmed that players will not be able to preload the game, even if they have been participating in early access. All players will need to re-download the 122GB game. Larian Studios emphasized the significant changes made to the game and recommended starting afresh.
Baldur’s Gate 3 will be launching on August 3 for PC and September 6 for PS5. The release for Xbox Series S/X is still far off.
Denial of responsibility! SamacharCentrl is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Basant Kasayap is an entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to Bollywood to regional cinema, she offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
