Larian Studios Clarifies Its Application of Generative AI for New Divinity
The studio behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its next major project, generating a wave of excitement within the industry. However, subsequent remarks from the company's lead designer have added nuance to the conversation, touching on the team's philosophy toward machine learning.
Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs
In a new clarification, Larian's director outlined that the team is employing generative AI for certain preliminary purposes. These involve fleshing out pitch decks, producing initial concept art, and drafting temporary copy.
Notably, Vincke stressed that the final assets in the game will be crafted exclusively by actual creatives. "Larian is developing everything manually," he stated.
We are continuously expanding our pool of writers and are busily assembling dedicated writer rooms.
As this area is being specifically mentioned — we currently have twenty-three visual developers and have positions available for more creatives.
All our efforts we do is incremental and designed to letting our team spend greater focus on the creative process.
Any machine learning application applied correctly is a boost to a artist's workflow, not a replacement for their skill.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The revelation of using AI initially sparked unease among some the fanbase. In reply, Vincke issued additional elaboration on social media.
"Our team utilizes machine learning to explore references, just like we use search engines and reference books," he wrote. "During the very early ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then replace with original illustrations."
He added, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their willingness to execute what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had earlier broken down the company's targeted strategy to this technology, grouping its use into key areas:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like refining animations, voice editing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to rapidly prototype basic versions of scenarios to experiment with concepts before expensive implementation.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could one day enhance innovative gameplay, especially in creating player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.
He explicitly noted that key artistic domains — including visual art — are are in no way departments where the team is reducing artistic involvement. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these very positions.
"Larian is neither releasing a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not considering cutting staff to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.
