I am sure they listen, analyse feedback and data.
However, players are not designers. If a subset of players doesn’t like or agree with Larian’s approach/ideals it’s irrelevant. They can’t and shouldn’t change the game based on the whims of the audience. On part, because audience most likely doesn’t know what they want, and because the audience will have different and conflicting ideas. In addition he audience has a very fragmented view of the game - just the unfinished content in the beta, and they most likely don’t know how to properly analyse said content in the context of game being developed (I remember Josh Sawyer saying how giving final sound effect to a gun, stopped people from complaining that it’s underpowered etc.).
Customers are also not a board of directors nor owners. Larian doesn’t work for us. What BG3 is, is decided by WotC and Larian. EA players are just willing, paying guinea pigs. And they pay close attention to what those guinea pigs do, say and how they react. But they won’t put them in charge of anything. Oink, oink.
Very on point. Perhaps not very tactful, but on point.
At the end of the day, I think they listen, and I'm sure that some of their designers have already said some of the suggestions, but it comes down what they and ultimately WOTC want to tell and do. However, as pointed out before in other posts, the game will probably be moddable. And if that isn't good enough one can always learn how to become a game designer and pioneer said game suggestions in their own game. Anything is possible, but it takes time, work, and financial backing.
I don't mind being a beta tester/EA player that doesn't really get much say. I say my mind in what I think is plausible and would like to see, but I have no illusions that my opinion will be sought after or even implemented. I will still share my thoughts because that is what they asked. If they happen to see it and think its a great idea, I will be humbly honored that they took my input to heart. I think it is unfair to say though that they don't care about peoples ideas. That is a bit on the harsh side. I think they are indifferent at the worst, but still want our input all the same. It is how they gauge if something is popular or not so popular or needs adjustment. Input is always necessary to create anything. Anyways, enough of me rambling. Not singling you out or anything because I disagree, just felt chatty and sharing my opinion.
