Larian Studios Clarifies Its Application of Machine Learning for Next Divinity
The developer behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its new project, creating a wave of excitement within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's figurehead have brought a new dimension to the discussion, addressing the developer's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a latest message, Swen Vincke outlined that the developer is utilizing generative AI for specific supporting tasks. These include fleshing out presentation materials, generating initial concept art, and writing placeholder copy.
Notably, Vincke stressed that the end material in the game will be created solely by real writers. "Our team is writing everything ourselves," he stated.
We are actively increasing our pool of concept artists and are actively assembling dedicated writer rooms.
As concept art is being explicitly referenced — we currently have twenty-three concept artists and have job openings for further talent.
Each initiative we do is incremental and designed to having people spend greater focus on making content.
Any ML tool used well is supplementary to a developer's workflow, not a substitute for their skill.
Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent
The news of using AI at first generated backlash among portions of the community. In response, Vincke provided further clarification on online platforms.
"We use AI tools to research ideas, in the same way we use Google and reference books," he stated. "During the initial planning process we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then replace with hand-crafted artwork."
He added, "Larian brings on artists for their creative vision, not for their willingness to follow what a algorithm proposes."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had in the past broken down the team's focused method to this technology, categorizing its use into key pillars:
- Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to speedily create rough mock-ups of scenarios to validate concepts before complete production.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could one day create new forms of reactivity, especially in managing player-driven narratives in a detailed game universe.
He explicitly affirmed that key artistic areas — like music composition — are are in no way departments where the studio is reducing artistic involvement. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these exact positions.
"We are not shipping a game with any AI components, nor considering trimming down creatives to swap them out with AI," Vincke summarized.
