Larian Studios Explains Its Use of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity Game
The team behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its next major project, creating significant excitement within the industry. However, follow-up comments from the studio's lead designer have introduced nuance to the narrative, focusing on the team's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a latest clarification, Swen Vincke explained that the developer is utilizing AI technology for particular ancillary functions. These encompass fleshing out presentation materials, generating rough concept art, and drafting placeholder text.
Importantly, Vincke stressed that the shipping content in the game will be created entirely by real creatives. "We are writing all the content in-house," he said.
We are continuously growing our roster of storytellers and are currently forming dedicated writer rooms.
As concept art is being specifically referenced — we currently have over twenty artistic staff and have positions available for more creatives.
Each initiative we do is additive and designed to enabling creatives to spend greater focus on actual creation.
Any machine learning application implemented properly is a boost to a developer's routine, not a replacement for their talent.
Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent
The revelation of using AI at first generated concern among some the fanbase. In reply, Vincke provided additional elaboration on social media.
"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, in the same way we use Google and physical media," he explained. "In the initial planning process we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then swap out with authentic artwork."
He continued, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their ability to replicate what a AI generates."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had in the past detailed the company's targeted approach to this technology, defining its use into primary areas:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
- Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using technology to speedily create basic versions of mechanics to experiment with concepts before full production.
- Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how AI could one day facilitate emergent player agency, specifically in simulating player-driven narratives in a detailed game universe.
He specifically stated that key artistic domains — including writing — are not areas where the company is reducing creative talent. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these precise fields.
"We are not shipping a game with any AI components, nor considering reducing teams to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.
