Larian Studios Clarifies Its Use of Generative AI for Next Divinity Game
The studio behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, sparking immense anticipation within the player base. However, recent statements from the company's lead designer have added clarity to the narrative, addressing the studio's stance toward AI tools.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a new clarification, Swen Vincke detailed that the team is utilizing generative AI for certain ancillary purposes. These involve developing PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage visual ideas, and writing temporary copy.
Importantly, Vincke made clear that the shipping material in the game will be authored solely by human writers. "Larian is developing everything ourselves," he stated.
Our studio is continuously expanding our roster of writers and are actively forming narrative groups.
As this area is being explicitly referenced — we right now have 23 concept artists and have positions available for additional talent.
Everything we do is supplementary and aimed at letting our team spend more time on making content.
Every ML tool applied correctly is supplementary to a artist's workflow, not a replacement for their skill.
Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent
The news of AI usage originally sparked unease among a segment of the fanbase. In response, Vincke provided additional clarification on online platforms.
"We use these tools to explore references, similar to we use the internet and art books," he wrote. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then substitute with authentic artwork."
He continued, "Larian brings on creatives for their creative vision, not for their willingness to follow what a algorithm proposes."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had earlier outlined the team's focused approach to AI and ML, grouping its use into key areas:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to speedily create basic mock-ups of mechanics to validate concepts prior to expensive implementation.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Investigating how machine learning could eventually create innovative player agency, specifically in managing player-driven narratives in a detailed game universe.
He explicitly affirmed that key artistic disciplines — like visual art — are are in no way areas where the team is replacing creative talent. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these exact roles.
"Larian is neither shipping a game with AI-generated content, nor considering trimming down staff to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.
