Larian Studios Details Its Application of AI Tools for Next Divinity

The developer behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its upcoming project, generating a wave of hype within the industry. However, follow-up statements from the company's lead designer have introduced clarity to the discussion, focusing on the developer's stance toward machine learning.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new message, Larian's director detailed that the company is using machine learning for particular preliminary tasks. These encompass fleshing out PowerPoint slides, producing initial visual ideas, and writing temporary dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the final content in the game will be authored exclusively by human writers. "We are creating all the content ourselves," he affirmed.

Our studio is constantly growing our pool of concept artists and are busily putting together narrative groups.

As this area is being specifically mentioned — we presently have 23 concept artists and have job openings for further artists.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and aimed at having people spend more time on actual creation.

Every AI system implemented properly is supplementary to a artist's process, never a stand-in for their craft.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The admission of AI usage at first sparked concern among portions of the player base. In reaction, Vincke provided more clarification on public forums.

"We use AI tools to explore references, similar to we use search engines and art books," he stated. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then substitute with original artwork."

He added, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their ability to execute what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had in the past detailed the studio's practical method to machine learning, grouping its use into key areas:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to speedily create simple mock-ups of scenarios to validate concepts prior to full development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how AI could in the future facilitate emergent player agency, especially in simulating dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He specifically noted that core creative areas — like visual art — are not areas where the company is replacing artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these precise roles.

"Larian is not shipping a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not planning on cutting staff to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.