Larian Studios Explains Its Application of AI Tools for New Divinity
The developer behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its new project, generating a wave of hype within the industry. However, subsequent remarks from the company's figurehead have brought a new dimension to the discussion, focusing on the team's stance toward AI tools.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a latest message, the studio's founder explained that the developer is employing machine learning for certain supporting purposes. These encompass developing PowerPoint slides, producing rough visual ideas, and writing draft copy.
Crucially, Vincke made clear that the end assets in the game will be created entirely by human writers. "We are developing every line ourselves," he affirmed.
We are continuously growing our team of concept artists and are actively assembling writing teams.
Given that visual development is being specifically referenced — we presently have 23 artistic staff and have roles to fill for additional talent.
Everything we do is supplementary and designed to having people spend greater focus on making content.
Every ML tool implemented properly is supplementary to a artist's process, not a replacement for their talent.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The revelation of AI usage originally provoked unease among a segment of the community. In response, Vincke provided further detail on public forums.
"At Larian, we employ AI tools to explore references, in the same way we use the internet and physical media," he explained. "During the very early planning process we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then substitute with hand-crafted artwork."
He continued, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their ability to follow what a AI generates."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had previously outlined the team's practical approach to AI and ML, defining its use into key pillars:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
- Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using systems to rapidly prototype basic models of gameplay ideas to test concepts prior to expensive implementation.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Researching how AI could eventually facilitate innovative player agency, particularly in managing player-driven narratives in a detailed game universe.
He explicitly affirmed that key artistic areas — such as music composition — are not areas where the company is replacing human input. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these very positions.
"Larian is neither shipping a game with AI-generated content, nor looking at trimming down creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke concluded.