Larian Studios Details Its Use of AI Tools for Next Divinity Game
The studio behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its upcoming project, sparking immense hype within the player base. However, follow-up comments from the company's co-founder have introduced nuance to the discussion, addressing the studio's philosophy toward AI tools.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a recent statement, Larian's director outlined that the developer is utilizing machine learning for specific ancillary functions. These involve enhancing presentation materials, creating initial visual ideas, and writing temporary copy.
Crucially, Vincke stressed that the end material in the game will be created exclusively by real writers. "Larian is creating everything manually," he affirmed.
We are actively increasing our pool of concept artists and are busily forming dedicated writer rooms.
Since visual development is being explicitly referenced — we right now have 23 artistic staff and have positions available for further creatives.
Everything we do is additive and aimed at having people spend more time on the creative process.
Any ML tool used well is additive to a artist's process, never a stand-in for their craft.
Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent
The revelation of employing this technology originally provoked concern among portions of the community. In reaction, Vincke offered more detail on social media.
"At Larian, we employ these tools to gather inspiration, similar to we use search engines and reference books," he wrote. "In the very early brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then substitute with authentic illustrations."
He continued, "Our studio recruits artists for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to execute what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had earlier broken down the studio's practical strategy to machine learning, categorizing its use into three main functions:
- Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
- Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using tools to quickly build basic versions of scenarios to test concepts ahead of complete development.
- Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how machine learning could eventually facilitate innovative reactivity, especially in managing dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.
He explicitly stated that core creative areas — including music composition — are not areas where the company is replacing artistic talent. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these very positions.
"We are not releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on trimming down teams to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.