Larian Studios Details Its Application of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity
The team behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its upcoming project, creating a wave of excitement within the player base. However, recent comments from the company's co-founder have introduced nuance to the narrative, touching on the developer's stance toward AI tools.
Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs
In a recent clarification, the studio's founder explained that the developer is employing generative AI for particular supporting functions. These encompass developing pitch decks, producing initial concept art, and creating placeholder dialogue.
Notably, Vincke stressed that the final assets in the game will be authored entirely by actual creatives. "We are writing everything ourselves," he affirmed.
Larian is actively expanding our team of writers and are actively assembling writing teams.
Given that concept art is being specifically called out — we currently have over twenty concept artists and have positions available for further artists.
Each initiative we do is supplementary and designed to letting our team spend greater focus on making content.
Every AI system implemented properly is supplementary to a artist's process, not a replacement for their talent.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The admission of using AI originally provoked backlash among a segment of the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke offered additional clarification on social media.
"At Larian, we employ machine learning to explore references, similar to we use Google and physical media," he stated. "In the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then swap out with original artwork."
He noted, "We've hired talent for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to follow what a machine suggests."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had previously outlined the team's focused method to machine learning, categorizing its use into three main functions:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to speedily create rough mock-ups of gameplay ideas to validate concepts prior to full development.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Exploring how AI could one day enhance emergent reactivity, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.
He explicitly affirmed that central narrative domains — like visual art — are are absolutely not fields where the studio is reducing human involvement. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these precise roles.
"Our studio is neither releasing a game with any AI components, nor looking at reducing staff to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.
