Larian Studios Explains Its Use of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity

The team behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its upcoming project, creating a wave of excitement within the industry. However, follow-up statements from the company's figurehead have introduced nuance to the narrative, addressing the studio's philosophy toward machine learning.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a latest clarification, the studio's founder detailed that the team is employing AI technology for specific ancillary purposes. These include developing presentation materials, producing early-stage visual ideas, and creating temporary dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the shipping content in the game will be crafted exclusively by real creatives. "Our team is creating every line manually," he affirmed.

Larian is continuously growing our pool of concept artists and are actively forming narrative groups.

As concept art is being particularly called out — we presently have 23 visual developers and have positions available for further creatives.

Everything we do is additive and focused on enabling creatives to spend additional energy on making content.

Any ML tool implemented properly is additive to a artist's workflow, not a substitute for their skill.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The admission of using AI at first sparked unease among a segment of the player base. In reaction, Vincke offered more clarification on social media.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to explore references, just like we use search engines and art books," he stated. "During the initial planning process we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with authentic artwork."

He added, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had previously broken down the studio's practical approach to AI and ML, categorizing its use into three main functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This encompasses polishing mocap data, audio processing, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to quickly build basic models of mechanics to test concepts ahead of full implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how machine learning could in the future enhance emergent player agency, especially in managing dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He specifically affirmed that central narrative domains — such as writing — are are in no way fields where the studio is reducing human talent. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise fields.

"Our studio is not releasing a game with AI-generated content, nor planning on reducing teams to replace them with AI," Vincke summarized.