Larian Studios Explains Its Implementation of AI Tools for New Divinity

The studio behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its next major project, generating significant excitement within the gaming community. However, subsequent remarks from the studio's figurehead have brought a new dimension to the conversation, focusing on the developer's approach toward machine learning.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a latest clarification, Larian's director outlined that the team is employing machine learning for certain ancillary functions. These involve developing presentation materials, generating initial visual ideas, and creating temporary copy.

Notably, Vincke stressed that the shipping assets in the game will be crafted entirely by human writers. "Our team is creating all the content ourselves," he said.

Larian is actively expanding our pool of writers and are busily assembling narrative groups.

As this area is being particularly referenced — we currently have twenty-three visual developers and have job openings for additional talent.

Everything we do is supplementary and focused on having people spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every machine learning application applied correctly is a boost to a developer's process, never a stand-in for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The admission of employing this technology at first sparked concern among portions of the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke provided further clarification on social media.

"We use AI tools to explore references, just like we use Google and art books," he stated. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then swap out with authentic illustrations."

He added, "Our studio recruits talent for their unique talent, not for their capacity to replicate what a algorithm proposes."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier outlined the team's targeted strategy to machine learning, defining its use into primary functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype rough models of mechanics to experiment with concepts prior to expensive production.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Investigating how machine learning could one day create emergent gameplay, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.

He specifically stated that core creative domains — including writing — are are in no way departments where the team is cutting creative talent. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these very fields.

"Our studio is not releasing a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not considering reducing creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.