Larian Studios Explains Its Application of Generative AI for Upcoming Project

The studio behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its upcoming project, sparking immense anticipation within the industry. However, recent statements from the company's lead designer have added clarity to the narrative, addressing the team's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent clarification, the studio's founder outlined that the developer is employing generative AI for particular ancillary functions. These encompass developing PowerPoint slides, producing initial concept art, and drafting placeholder text.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the shipping assets in the game will be authored entirely by human artists. "Our team is creating every line in-house," he said.

Our studio is continuously growing our roster of writers and are currently forming narrative groups.

Given that visual development is being specifically mentioned — we presently have twenty-three artistic staff and have roles to fill for additional talent.

All our efforts we do is supplementary and designed to having people spend greater focus on the creative process.

Every AI system used well is supplementary to a developer's workflow, not a substitute for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The admission of employing this technology initially provoked unease among portions of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke provided additional detail on public forums.

"We use machine learning to gather inspiration, in the same way we use search engines and art books," he wrote. "In the very early planning process we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then substitute with hand-crafted concept art."

He noted, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to follow what a machine suggests."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had previously detailed the team's practical strategy to machine learning, defining its use into key functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, voice editing, 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 expensive development.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could eventually facilitate innovative player agency, especially in simulating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He explicitly affirmed that key artistic domains — including writing — are are absolutely not areas where the company is cutting creative talent. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these very positions.

"We are not releasing a game with AI-generated content, nor considering cutting staff to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.