Larian CEO Responds to Brutality Reflected on-Stage in Divinity Trailer Controversy
Swen Vincke, head of Larian Studios, addressed the mixed reception given to the trail for the new Divinity project, which has been under controversy. Speaking during the interview with GamesRadar Vincke defended the graphic depiction in the trailer of a ritual sacrifice by comparing it to the streaming service fare.
A Game for a Mature Audience
The trailer's depiction of the agonizing situation of one of the characters in scenes inspired by "The Wicker Man" was not appreciated by many. However, Vincke confirmed that he did not intend to shock anyone; rather, he wanted to appeal to a certain audience.
"I don't really think we were trying to shock people. I do understand how it looks that way; we are making this game for a mature and thoughtful audience that likes serious content. It's pretty much what you see all the time on HBO or Netflix."
Swen Vincke, head of Larian Studios
From Textual Interpretation to Cinematic Representation
Vincke pointed out that other major levels of violence were found in Larian's past games, but they were expressed differently. Past expressions have been through written text, while this new project wants to develop a reality with higher cinematic expression.
"To show a sense to the players that whatever they were going to experience will be similar but presented now in a cinematic way. The approach became more grounded: we wanted to show off that the world doesn't feel overly fantastic. Surely there are fantasy elements, but this is not a universe dripping with magic."
Swen Vincke, head of Larian Studios
The Trailer as a Quality Criterion
As indicated by Vincke, the team is using the controversial CG trailer as a standard for the game's final visual and quality design. Larian Studios wants to make the actual game look as nice as the trailer. The release date for the next installment of Divinity is still to be announced.
