Larian Studios Clarifies Its Use of Machine Learning for Next Divinity
The team behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, generating significant anticipation within the industry. However, recent comments from the studio's co-founder have introduced nuance to the discussion, focusing on the team's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a latest clarification, Larian's director outlined that the company is utilizing machine learning for particular ancillary purposes. These involve enhancing PowerPoint slides, creating initial artistic references, and writing placeholder dialogue.
Crucially, Vincke stressed that the end assets in the game will be crafted exclusively by human writers. "We are writing all the content in-house," he affirmed.
Our studio is continuously growing our pool of storytellers and are actively assembling narrative groups.
Since visual development is being explicitly called out — we currently have twenty-three artistic staff and have roles to fill for additional artists.
Each initiative we do is incremental and aimed at having people spend more time on the creative process.
Any ML tool implemented properly is a boost to a developer's workflow, never a stand-in for their skill.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The revelation of using AI at first provoked unease among portions of the community. In reply, Vincke issued additional detail on public forums.
"Our team utilizes AI tools to research ideas, just like we use Google and physical media," he explained. "In the conceptual planning process we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then swap out with original artwork."
He noted, "Our studio recruits creatives for their unique talent, not for their ability to follow what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had in the past broken down the studio's targeted strategy to AI and ML, grouping its use into key functions:
- Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to quickly build rough versions of scenarios to validate concepts prior to full implementation.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Researching how machine learning could one day enhance innovative player agency, especially in creating dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.
He specifically affirmed that core creative domains — such as visual art — are are absolutely not areas where the studio is replacing creative talent. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these very roles.
"We are not launching a game with machine-made assets, nor considering trimming down teams to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.
