Larian Studios Explains Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Upcoming Divinity

The studio behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its upcoming project, creating a wave of anticipation within the industry. However, recent remarks from the company's lead designer have added nuance to the discussion, addressing the developer's stance toward AI tools.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a latest clarification, Larian's director outlined that the company is employing machine learning for particular ancillary purposes. These include fleshing out PowerPoint slides, generating rough visual ideas, and creating draft text.

Importantly, Vincke stressed that the end material in the game will be authored exclusively by real creatives. "We are developing every line manually," he affirmed.

Larian is actively expanding our roster of writers and are currently assembling writing teams.

Since this area is being particularly referenced — we currently have 23 concept artists and have job openings for additional talent.

All our efforts we do is incremental and designed to enabling creatives to spend more time on making content.

Any AI system applied correctly is additive to a developer's process, not a replacement for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of employing this technology originally sparked concern among some the community. In reaction, Vincke offered further elaboration on social media.

"At Larian, we employ these tools to explore references, just like we use search engines and reference books," he stated. "During the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then replace with authentic concept art."

He continued, "Larian brings on artists for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to execute what a machine suggests."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past broken down the company's practical method to machine learning, categorizing its use into key areas:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like refining animations, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype basic versions of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts prior to complete production.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Investigating how AI could one day facilitate emergent reactivity, specifically in creating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He clearly stated that central narrative disciplines — like music composition — are not areas where the company is cutting creative talent. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact roles.

"Our studio is not shipping a game with any AI components, nor looking at reducing teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.