This thread was started in order to discuss if Larian should produce a open world RPG, in the way of The Witcher 3 or Cyberpunk 2077 or name any of the other great RPG's that you like and are in a open world type of environment (don't you dare bring up Elden Ring!)
Why Witcher3, Cyberpunk and not Elden RIng? All are openworld RPG - Elden Ring more of an "openworld" and "RPG" than those two. But be it your way:
Once again: no. Witcher3 and Cyberpunk77 are carried by the strength of their narrative, characters and engaging linear quest structure. They rely on strengths that Larian lacks. So far Larian achieved most success in systemic multiplayer sandboxes. Even if they ditch top down turn-based perspective I think they will do best to continue what they do well, rather than creating highly scripted narrative novels like CDPR does.
So, if they were to create a game under restriction of being First or Third person game, I think a more natural fit studio would be something similar to Arcane's output (Dishonored, Prey) - highly systemic sandboxes. Actually, upcoming Redfall might be something of that sort, depending how much of a shooter vs immersive sim it is - so far it looks like Vampire Farcry but with Arcane you never know.
Still, there would be danger in that. Due to robust simulation Arcane games traditionally are demanding power hogs. Also doing an action multiplayer experience could be more tricky than multiplayer turn based, which is forgiving when it comes to latency. Personally, I think it is up to Larian - do they want to create turn-based titles in the future? If they do, than I think they would be wise to continue. They achieved success, and have little to no real compeititon. Why push yourself into an overcrowded space, ruled by behemoth publishers, if you have carved your own comfortable and succesful nieche? If they did a "generic open world action game with RPG element would anyone care.
Coming back to Elden Ring, one can definitely make an enterance, but Elden Ring was build on bones of 6 (?) previous titles. Nothing Larian did so far prepared them for doing an openworld action game. No gameplay, engine, quest structure, story-telling to take with you.
