Larian Studios, a Belgian game developer, had been making games in their Divinity universe for over a decade. But in 2014, they released a game that would change everything for them: Divinity: Original Sin. It was a return to the classic, top-down role-playing games (RPGs) of the 1990s, but built with modern ideas.

What made it special was how it was funded. Larian took their idea to Kickstarter, a crowdfunding platform, and asked players directly to support their vision. The response was overwhelming. It turned out thousands of people were hungry for a deep, complex RPG that didn't hold your hand. This success allowed Larian to create a game with immense freedom and interactivity, setting a new standard for the genre.

The Original Sin games are set in a sprawling fantasy world called Rivellon. It's a land filled with magic, warring factions, ancient secrets, and powerful gods. While it has all the familiar elements of fantasy—elves, dwarves, orcs, and wizards—Rivellon has its own unique flavor.

One of the defining features of the Divinity universe is its tone. The stories deal with epic, world-ending threats, but the world itself is brimming with humor and absurdity. You might find yourself talking to a philosophical crab, a dog who needs help solving a murder, or a skeleton who fancies himself a playwright. This blend of serious stakes and lighthearted weirdness gives the series a distinct and memorable personality.

At a glance, Original Sin might look like many other RPGs, but several core ideas set it apart.

First is the incredible level of interactivity. Almost every object in the world can be picked up, moved, or used in some way. But this idea truly shines in how elements interact. Cast a rain spell to create a puddle of water, then hit it with a lightning spell to electrocute everyone standing in it. Freeze the water to create an icy surface that enemies will slip on. This elemental sandbox encourages creative problem-solving in and out of combat.

Another key feature is its cooperative design. The games are built from the ground up for two players. Each player controls their own character and can freely roam the world, make decisions, and even disagree with their partner. Sometimes, you'll have to settle arguments with an in-game rock-paper-scissors match. This creates a truly shared adventure, unlike the single-player focus of most RPGs.

Finally, player choice is paramount. The stories are full of branching paths and consequences. Decisions you make early on can have ripple effects that change the world and how characters react to you much later. It's a series that respects the player's agency, giving them the tools and the freedom to craft their own unique story.

Now, let's see what you've learned about this acclaimed franchise.

That covers the basics of what makes the Divinity: Original Sin franchise so special. It's a series built on freedom, creativity, and a touch of humor.