Larian Studios Details Its Application of Generative AI for Upcoming Divinity

The team behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its new project, creating a wave of excitement within the player base. However, recent remarks from the studio's lead designer have added clarity to the conversation, addressing the team's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new statement, Swen Vincke detailed that the developer is employing generative AI for specific supporting tasks. These include fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage visual ideas, and drafting draft copy.

Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the final material in the game will be created entirely by actual creatives. "Our team is developing every line ourselves," he stated.

Larian is constantly increasing our team of concept artists and are currently forming dedicated writer rooms.

Since visual development is being specifically referenced — we presently have twenty-three visual developers and have roles to fill for more talent.

Each initiative we do is incremental and designed to having people spend more time on actual creation.

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

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of AI usage at first generated backlash among portions of the player base. In reaction, Vincke provided additional detail on social media.

"We use machine learning to research ideas, similar to we use the internet and physical media," he wrote. "During the initial ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then substitute with original concept art."

He added, "We've hired artists for their creative vision, not for their willingness to execute what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier broken down the company's practical method to this technology, defining its use into primary areas:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to speedily create rough mock-ups of mechanics to test concepts prior to complete implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could one day enhance emergent reactivity, particularly in managing player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.

He clearly noted that central narrative domains — like visual art — are are absolutely not areas where the studio is reducing creative talent. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these precise fields.

"We are neither launching a game with AI-generated content, nor considering trimming down staff to replace them with AI," Vincke concluded.