Bethesda and Larian Studios have taken different paths in designing their role-playing games (RPGs), according to Starfield designer Bruce Nesmith. While both studios aim to create immersive RPG experiences, their approaches differ significantly.
Bethesda focuses on delivering massive games with no limitations. Players have the freedom to explore every faction, complete every questline, and access all content. Nothing is locked away or disabled based on decisions or playstyles. The goal is to provide a game that players can invest hundreds of hours into, with endless possibilities.
On the other hand, Larian Studios takes a more drastic approach. They prioritize meaningful decision-making, even if it means locking away content from the majority of players. Larian believes that the small percentage of players who do experience this exclusive content will appreciate its significance and share their experiences with others.
Nesmith acknowledges that Bethesda games may not offer as many highly meaningful decisions compared to Larian’s RPGs. While players may have a few significant choices in Bethesda games, Larian aims to make every decision feel weighty and impactful.
These divergent design philosophies highlight the breadth of the RPG genre. Bethesda aims to provide a vast, inclusive experience for all players, while Larian focuses on creating a more personal and meaningful journey. Both approaches have their own dedicated communities of RPG enthusiasts who appreciate the games in different ways.
Source: DOTESPORTS
