Larian Studios Details Its Implementation of AI Tools for Next Divinity

The studio behind acclaimed titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its new project, creating immense hype within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's figurehead have added a new dimension to the narrative, addressing the team's approach toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent message, Larian's director detailed that the developer is employing generative AI for specific supporting purposes. These encompass fleshing out pitch decks, creating rough concept art, and creating placeholder copy.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the final assets in the game will be created entirely by actual writers. "Larian is creating everything manually," he said.

Larian is constantly increasing our pool of concept artists and are currently putting together dedicated writer rooms.

Since this area is being explicitly called out — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have roles to fill for further talent.

Each initiative we do is incremental and designed to letting our team spend greater focus on actual creation.

Any machine learning application implemented properly is a boost to a developer's routine, not a substitute for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The admission of using AI initially sparked concern among some the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke offered further clarification on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, similar to we use Google and art books," he stated. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for structure which we then substitute with hand-crafted artwork."

He noted, "Our studio recruits artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to follow what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously detailed the studio's practical strategy to machine learning, defining its use into key pillars:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to speedily create rough mock-ups of gameplay ideas to validate concepts before complete production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how AI could one day enhance emergent player agency, specifically in creating dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He clearly affirmed that key artistic disciplines — including writing — are are in no way fields where the company is reducing human talent. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise positions.

"We are neither launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not considering cutting teams to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.