I would love to able to keep this thread on topic, but the only ones who can do that are mods. I'm fine with the theory of video games that keeps popping up. Larian apologists showing up to argue in a thread of worthwhile criticisms is an unfortunate side effect of being on the internet.
I think the idea that they "handed the rights back" to WoTC is an odd visualization of a very abstract legal situation. The nature of their agreement, originally or as it evolved, is not public knowledge. Two companies can alter their agreements with one another at any time without notifying anyone but whom they wish, and work on a project without it becoming public knowledge either. Projects as successful as this one rarely get shelved for good. This game is a great candidate for a reworked Definitive Edition, and consistently reiterating interest in one is an important signal for the company. I suspect Larian will return to this game in some form, considering its success and that its fanbase might not be easily moved to another product.
All that said, as I play through Act 3 again, the disconnected feel of the situation is becoming a really obvious pattern. I dont even feel like I'm in a story, just running errands. I do think that Act 3 could be much improved as an experience just by adding more reactivity among the player, companions, and emperor. More nighttime events that are not fights, maybe someone feeling conflicted about killing Gortash, or shock at the reemergence of a Bhaal cult, maybe psionic illness as you get closer to the Netherbrain. Things feel disconnected and the story needs more structure. But just adding more engagement of the characters with the events would go a long, long way.
This is my thought on the wotc situation too. To me announcing they handed over the rights serves more to make Larian's intentions clear than anything else. They can revisit it. I just don't know what, if anything, would persuade them to do so. They know there's a desire for it and I'm sure they're aware of the criticisms of act 3, but they walked away despite that.
Couldn't agree more on your thoughts about the third act. Lack of reactivity is the first thing I noticed and it's the same for everyone I know who has played the game. But it goes beyond that in terms of story and quest structure too. At this point I dread getting to the city when I replay. I'm not getting much in exchange for the drop in performance. I think feeling like you're just running errands is a pretty good way to describe it.
