In a recent interview with the BBC, one of the actors involved in the development of the highly-anticipated fantasy role-playing game Baldur’s Gate 3 shed light on a progressive and considerate move by the game’s developer, Larian Studios. To create a safe and comfortable environment for actors during the depiction of intimate scenes, Larian Studios enlisted the help of intimacy coordinators.
What are Intimacy Coordinators?
Intimacy coordinators, as defined by SAG-AFTRA, play a crucial role as advocates and liaisons between actors and production teams. Additionally, they act as movement coaches and choreographers, ensuring that scenes involving nudity or simulated sex are approached with respect and consent.
Though their presence is increasingly common in film and TV productions, this marks one of the earliest instances of their involvement in the gaming industry. Notably, intimacy coordinators were also present during the filming of certain scenes in last year’s game, Immortality.
Creating a Safe Space for Intimate Scenes
During the BBC interview, actors Jennifer English (Shadowheart) and Devora Wilde (Lae’zel) revealed that Larian Studios engaged professional intimacy coordinators to support the cast during motion capture sessions for Baldur’s Gate 3’s intimate and romantic scenes.
The coordinators played a vital role in helping the actors feel secure and at ease while enacting the game’s passionate moments, be it with male, female, or shape-shifting companions.
Despite the inherent challenges and occasional awkwardness involved in portraying a fantasy RPG’s narrative, Jennifer English expressed her contentment with the supportive environment. She mentioned that she never felt uncomfortable during any recording session, thanks to the presence and guidance of the intimacy coordinators.
Larian Studios believes it is one of the pioneering game development studios to incorporate intimacy coordinators in the creation of a fully rendered video game. By taking this progressive step, they hope to set an example for other studios, encouraging them to prioritize the well-being and comfort of their actors in intimate scenes.
Bear-mance and Curiosity
While Baldur’s Gate 3 boasts various opportunities for romance, a particular love scene between vampire Astarion and shape-shifting druid Halsin, in bear form, garnered significant attention. So much so, that the steamy clip briefly led to the studio’s suspension from TikTok.
As curiosity peaked around this “bear-mance” scene after its release on July 7, the game’s Google search results skyrocketed, leaving players eager to explore what other intriguing surprises the Dungeons & Dragons adventure has in store.
In conclusion, Baldur’s Gate 3’s incorporation of intimacy coordinators sets a noteworthy precedent in the gaming industry, ensuring a respectful and supportive approach to intimate moments in video games. As anticipation builds for the game’s release, players eagerly await the immersive and inclusive experiences that Larian Studios has meticulously crafted.
