Larian Studios Explains Its Use of AI Tools for Upcoming Project

The developer behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently unveiled its upcoming project, generating significant anticipation within the gaming community. However, recent comments from the company's lead designer have added clarity to the narrative, touching on the developer's philosophy toward machine learning.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent statement, Larian's director detailed that the company is using machine learning for particular ancillary purposes. These involve fleshing out presentation materials, creating initial artistic references, and creating draft text.

Importantly, Vincke stressed that the end material in the game will be crafted entirely by real creatives. "Our team is writing every line manually," he affirmed.

We are constantly increasing our team of writers and are actively forming writing teams.

Since concept art is being specifically called out — we right now have 23 concept artists and have positions available for additional talent.

Each initiative we do is additive and focused on having people spend more time on making content.

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

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of using AI at first provoked backlash among portions of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke issued additional detail on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, just like we use the internet and physical media," he wrote. "In the initial ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for structure which we then swap out with authentic concept art."

He continued, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their willingness to replicate what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier outlined the team's practical approach to this technology, grouping its use into three main functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype rough versions of mechanics to experiment with concepts before full implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how machine learning could in the future facilitate new forms of gameplay, particularly in creating dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.

He explicitly noted that core creative disciplines — including visual art — are are absolutely not departments where the team is cutting artistic talent. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise positions.

"Larian is not releasing a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not looking at cutting staff to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.