The Cinematic Animation Lead of Baldur’s Gate 3, Jim Southworth, has died. Development studio Larian confirms the loss
For such a huge role-playing game like Baldur’s Gate 3 the number and quality of cinematics is truly remarkable. Jim Southworth was responsible for this as Cinematic Animation Lead and did an outstanding job. Now the developer has passed away, as Larian writes on X (formerly Twitter).
We are sad to announce the passing of Jim Southworth, our Cnimeatic Animation Lead. Jim cared deeply about his team, and it showed in his work. He loved making games, and we loved making them with him. We will all miss him.
We are sad to announce the passing of Jim Southworth, our Cinematic Animation lead.
Jim cared deeply about his team, and the results shone through in their work. He loved making games, and we loved making them with him. We’re all going to miss him.
– Larian Studios (@larianstudios) November 13, 2023
Deeply connected in the gaming cosmos
Jim Southworth has been working on Baldur’s Gate 3 since 2019, at that time still externally as Art Lead at Turbulenz Limited. He then found his way to Larian Studios in early 2021 and took on the role of Cinematic Animation Lead
But even before the successful role-playing game, Jim Southworth worked on several titles – in the 90s he was involved in games such as Lego Island 2 and Blade 2. For 11 years, he moved to the Playstation Studio in London, where he worked on Sony’s Medieval Resurrection, among other things.
He also lent his skills to the VR project The Deep until he was involved in the MMORPG Boundless as Art Lead between 2015 and 2019.
His work will not be forgotten, especially not on Baldur’s Gate 3. After all, his influence on the title has led to the role-playing game winning a record-breaking number of awards.
In the comments on X, some fans share their condolences to family, friends and colleagues. Here, too, his outstanding work is appreciated and his loss mourned. Nothing is known about the exact circumstances of his death
