Larian Studios Clarifies Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Next Divinity Game

The developer behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its upcoming project, creating a wave of anticipation within the gaming community. However, follow-up statements from the company's co-founder have added nuance to the narrative, addressing the team's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent clarification, Larian's director detailed that the company is utilizing AI technology for particular ancillary purposes. These include fleshing out pitch decks, generating rough concept art, and drafting draft dialogue.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the shipping content in the game will be authored solely by actual writers. "Our team is developing all the content manually," he said.

Larian is actively growing our team of storytellers and are currently putting together dedicated writer rooms.

Since this area is being explicitly mentioned — we right now have twenty-three artistic staff and have positions available for additional talent.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on letting our team spend greater focus on the creative process.

Every ML tool implemented properly is a boost to a creative team routine, not a replacement for their craft.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of using AI at first sparked unease among a segment of the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke offered more elaboration on social media.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to research ideas, just like we use Google and physical media," he explained. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then substitute with original artwork."

He noted, "Our studio recruits artists for their inherent skill, not for their ability to replicate what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously broken down the team's targeted strategy to machine learning, defining its use into three main areas:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes refining animations, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to quickly build simple versions of gameplay ideas to validate concepts prior to full development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how machine learning could eventually create innovative gameplay, particularly in simulating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He clearly affirmed that core creative areas — like writing — are are in no way fields where the team is cutting artistic talent. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these exact roles.

"Larian is not shipping a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not looking at reducing teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.