Larian Studios Explains Its Application of Machine Learning for New Divinity

The team behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its upcoming project, generating immense excitement within the industry. However, subsequent remarks from the studio's figurehead have added clarity to the conversation, focusing on the studio's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent statement, Larian's director explained that the team is employing AI technology for specific supporting tasks. These involve fleshing out presentation materials, generating early-stage concept art, and writing temporary copy.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the shipping content in the game will be crafted solely by actual creatives. "We are developing everything manually," he stated.

Larian is actively expanding our pool of storytellers and are actively assembling dedicated writer rooms.

Since concept art is being explicitly referenced — we right now have 23 concept artists and have job openings for further artists.

Each initiative we do is additive and designed to having people spend greater focus on actual creation.

Any ML tool implemented properly is supplementary to a developer's process, not a substitute for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of using AI initially sparked concern among a segment of the community. In reply, Vincke offered more elaboration on social media.

"At Larian, we employ these tools to research ideas, just like we use search engines and physical media," he explained. "During the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then replace with hand-crafted artwork."

He continued, "Larian brings on creatives for their inherent skill, not for their ability to follow what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had in the past outlined the company's targeted method to machine learning, grouping its use into primary areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses polishing mocap data, voice editing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to quickly build simple mock-ups of scenarios to test concepts before complete implementation.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Exploring how AI could eventually enhance new forms of player agency, particularly in managing dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He specifically stated that key artistic disciplines — including visual art — are are absolutely not departments where the studio is reducing artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these exact roles.

"We are neither launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not planning on reducing staff to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.