Larian Studios

One day, the Larian Studios CEO Swen Vincke will learn that, sometimes, the best thing to do is simply not say anything at all.

After some controversial comments surrounding the use of generative AI at the Baldur's Gate 3, Divinity studio — which he later walked back — Vincke now thinks there should be a system in place where video game reviewers are critiqued and given a score too.

Across a series of social media posts, Vincke states he doesn't like people sh*tting on things, and making a game deserves respect, no matter the quality. Seemingly believing some reviewers don't follow this line of thinking, Vincke said:

"Sometimes I think it'd be a good idea for critics to be scored, Metacritic-style, based on how others evaluate their criticism. I like to imagine it would encourage a bit more restraint. The harsh words do real damage. You shouldn't have to grow callus on your soul just because you want to publish something."

Who would review the game reviewers? Swen Vincke doesn't provide an answer.

Vincke continues by claiming some reviewers get "personal" with their critiques for "the sake of some likes".

While it is indeed true that games are made up of hundreds of people's time, effort, and passion, a review is designed to remove that emotion and fairly judge the creation of the studio.

"I get that if people are charging money, you want to know if it's good or not. But reviewers can just say — I didn't enjoy it or I don't think it's well made or I don't think it's worth the money they are charging. That's enough," he added.

It's not clear what — if anything — the posts are in reaction to.

Vincke's comments have drawn heavy criticism from reviewers and the games industry, such as former GameSpot and Giant Bomb journalist Jeff Gerstmann:

Eurogamer's deputy editorial director Chris Tapsell adds:

What do you make of Swen Vincke's latest comments? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

[source x.com]