Larian Studios Explains Its Implementation of Machine Learning for New Divinity

The studio behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its new project, sparking a wave of anticipation within the player base. However, recent remarks from the company's figurehead have introduced clarity to the narrative, addressing the team's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a latest clarification, Swen Vincke detailed that the company is employing AI technology for specific ancillary functions. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage concept art, and drafting temporary text.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the final assets in the game will be created solely by real creatives. "Larian is writing every line ourselves," he affirmed.

Larian is actively expanding our team of writers and are currently assembling dedicated writer rooms.

Given that this area is being specifically called out — we presently have twenty-three concept artists and have positions available for further creatives.

Each initiative we do is incremental and aimed at having people spend greater focus on making content.

Any ML tool used well is additive to a creative team routine, never a stand-in for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of using AI initially provoked backlash among portions of the community. In reply, Vincke offered additional detail on public forums.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to research ideas, similar to we use the internet and art books," he explained. "In the conceptual planning process we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then replace with original illustrations."

He noted, "Our studio recruits creatives for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had in the past detailed the studio's targeted strategy to AI and ML, categorizing its use into primary areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like adjusting assets for various species.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using systems to quickly build basic mock-ups of mechanics to validate concepts ahead of full development.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could eventually enhance innovative gameplay, specifically in simulating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He clearly noted that central narrative domains — including music composition — are are absolutely not fields where the team is replacing artistic involvement. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these very fields.

"Larian is neither launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not planning on reducing teams to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.