Larian Studios is not shying away from somber and mature themes in its upcoming Divinity role-playing game. While the debut trailer highlights these darker elements, Larian head Swen Vincke insists the footage isn’t intended to be gratuitous, noting that similar content is a staple of prestige networks like HBO and Netflix.
Following the Divinity reveal at The Game Awards, Vincke clarified that the development team never set out to rely on mere shock value.
Our intention wasn’t to provoke shock for shock’s sake. We set out to create a game for a sophisticated audience that appreciates nuanced themes. The tone isn’t far removed from the mature storytelling found on HBO or Netflix.
Vincke further explained that while the trailer’s aesthetic might differ from standard industry expectations, it is fundamentally rooted in Larian’s signature style. The primary evolution is the move toward a more cinematic delivery.
We wanted players to realize they’re getting the same depth as before, just in a cinematic format. It’s grounded because the trailer presents the universe without over-the-top high-fantasy tropes. There are certainly fantasy elements, but magic isn’t a constant, and we’ve avoided those typical clichés.
According to Vincke, the trailer serves as a mirror to the team’s creative vision. For Larian, embracing a grittier atmosphere is vital to ensuring players feel like significant heroes whose actions truly impact the world around them.
Source: iXBT.games