Comparing GOTY Contenders: Baldur's Gate 3 and Starfield
When both of your games are undeniably Game of the Year (GOTY) contenders, comparisons between them are inevitable. This seems to be the case with Baldur’s Gate 3 and Starfield. However, the Baldur's Gate 3 development team won't tolerate any bias against Bethesda's employees.
Reception of Baldur's Gate 3 and Starfield in the Gaming Industry
Baldur’s Gate 3 was received with immense success and is now the second biggest PC launch of 2023. It has also earned the distinction of being one of the most concurrently played games of all time on Steam.
On the other side, Starfield had a mixed initial response but later had a gigantic launch breaking records for both Bethesda and Xbox. Even though initially Starfield invited varying opinions, it now basks in its own triumph.
However, both games are open to scrutiny in the gaming world. Nevertheless, the developers are looking for fair and constructive critique. Michael Douse, Larian Studios’ Director of Publishing, called out Mark Kerns, a former WoW developer, for his harsh words against Starfield’s creative team.
Kerns compared the review scores of both Baldur’s Gate 3 and Starfield on Twitter, implying that the disparity in scores is because of differing passion levels.
Michael Douse Defends Starfield's Development Team
Michael Douse categorically slammed Kerns for his comments, suggesting that the average developer at Bethesda lacks passion, stating the suspicion as an unfair simplification.
Douse also leaped to Kerns's defense, attempting to stop others from piling on him. Douse believes they both have their own views on AAA gaming, but it's a leadership issue that shouldn't be associated with the development teams who diligently put their hearts into their projects.
Douse’s defense for the Bethesda team was much appreciated. Larian Studios, the team behind Baldur’s Gate 3, has also built up a good reputation after the game's launch. The team has been applauded for their development philosophy and their transparent game design process.
Moreover, Bethesda's development team has shown they're open to feedback from Starfield players and what they desire from the game. Starfield's followers rallied around Douse to defend the game.