The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Use of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity Game
The team behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its next major project, creating significant excitement within the player base. However, follow-up remarks from the company's figurehead have added clarity to the conversation, touching on the developer's stance toward AI tools.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a recent statement, Larian's director explained that the team is employing machine learning for certain ancillary tasks. These encompass enhancing presentation materials, creating rough concept art, and writing temporary copy.
Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the end material in the game will be created exclusively by real creatives. "Larian is developing every line manually," he stated.
Our studio is constantly growing our roster of writers and are currently assembling narrative groups.
Since this area is being particularly called out — we presently have 23 concept artists and have positions available for additional artists.
All our efforts we do is additive and aimed at having people spend additional energy on actual creation.
Every machine learning application used well is additive to a developer's workflow, not a substitute for their skill.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The revelation of employing this technology at first sparked backlash among some the player base. In reply, Vincke issued further detail on online platforms.
"Our team utilizes machine learning to explore references, similar to we use Google and physical media," he stated. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then swap out with authentic illustrations."
He noted, "Larian brings on artists for their inherent skill, 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 AI and ML, defining its use into primary areas:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to rapidly prototype simple mock-ups of mechanics to validate concepts prior to expensive development.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how machine learning could in the future create innovative player agency, particularly in managing unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.
He clearly noted that central narrative domains — such as writing — are not areas where the team is reducing human involvement. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise roles.
"Larian is not releasing a game with any AI components, nor looking at trimming down teams to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.