Larian Studios Clarifies Its Use of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity
The studio behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, generating immense hype within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's co-founder have brought a new dimension to the conversation, addressing the developer's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.
Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs
In a recent clarification, the studio's founder detailed that the developer is using generative AI for specific supporting functions. These involve developing PowerPoint slides, generating initial concept art, and drafting placeholder text.
Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the shipping assets in the game will be created entirely by actual creatives. "We are writing all the content ourselves," he said.
Our studio is actively growing our team of concept artists and are actively assembling narrative groups.
Since concept art is being specifically mentioned — we presently have twenty-three artistic staff and have roles to fill for further creatives.
Everything we do is additive and designed to letting our team spend additional energy on making content.
Every ML tool used well is additive to a developer's process, not a substitute for their skill.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The revelation of AI usage at first provoked backlash among some the community. In reaction, Vincke offered more clarification on social media.
"Our team utilizes AI tools to research ideas, just like we use search engines and physical media," he explained. "During the very early planning process we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then replace with hand-crafted illustrations."
He continued, "We've hired talent for their creative vision, not for their capacity to replicate what a machine suggests."
Key Areas of AI Integration
Vincke had earlier detailed the studio's focused approach to machine learning, defining its use into primary areas:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses polishing mocap data, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to speedily create basic mock-ups of mechanics to test concepts prior to complete implementation.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Investigating how AI could eventually enhance emergent gameplay, particularly in simulating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.
He specifically noted that core creative areas — such as visual art — are are absolutely not areas where the studio is cutting artistic involvement. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these precise positions.
"We are not releasing a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on reducing teams to swap them out with AI," Vincke stated definitively.
