Larian Studios Clarifies Its Use of AI Tools for New Divinity Game
The team behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its upcoming project, creating a wave of hype within the industry. However, follow-up remarks from the studio's lead designer have added nuance to the discussion, focusing on the developer's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.
Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs
In a recent statement, Larian's director outlined that the developer is using AI technology for certain supporting functions. These involve fleshing out presentation materials, generating rough concept art, and drafting draft text.
Importantly, Vincke made clear that the end material in the game will be crafted exclusively by human writers. "Larian is creating all the content ourselves," he affirmed.
Our studio is actively growing our team of storytellers and are currently putting together narrative groups.
As this area is being particularly mentioned — we presently have 23 visual developers and have roles to fill for further talent.
Each initiative we do is additive and designed to having people spend additional energy on actual creation.
Any AI system used well is additive to a artist's routine, never a stand-in for their skill.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The news of AI usage originally provoked backlash among some the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke issued further detail on social media.
"We use AI tools to research ideas, similar to we use search engines and art books," he stated. "During the conceptual planning process we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then swap out with authentic artwork."
He continued, "Our studio recruits artists for their inherent skill, not for their ability to replicate what a algorithm proposes."
Key Areas of AI Integration
Vincke had previously outlined the company's targeted approach to this technology, categorizing its use into three main functions:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes polishing mocap data, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to quickly build basic models of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts before complete development.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could one day create innovative player agency, particularly in creating dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.
He explicitly stated that central narrative disciplines — such as music composition — are are in no way departments where the company is replacing artistic input. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these very positions.
"Larian is neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not looking at cutting creatives to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.
