The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Application of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity Game

The team behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its next major project, generating a wave of hype within the player base. However, follow-up comments from the studio's co-founder have introduced clarity to the discussion, touching on the developer's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a latest clarification, Larian's director detailed that the developer is utilizing machine learning for particular ancillary functions. These include developing presentation materials, creating rough concept art, and creating placeholder dialogue.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the end content in the game will be created solely by real writers. "We are developing all the content ourselves," he affirmed.

Our studio is continuously growing our pool of writers and are actively putting together writing teams.

As concept art is being particularly called out — we currently have twenty-three concept artists and have job openings for additional creatives.

Each initiative we do is incremental and designed to letting our team spend additional energy on actual creation.

Every machine learning application used well is supplementary to a developer's process, never a stand-in for their skill.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of using AI at first provoked backlash among a segment of the player base. In reply, Vincke provided further elaboration on social media.

"Our team utilizes these tools to gather inspiration, just like we use the internet and art books," he stated. "During the very early brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then swap out with authentic concept art."

He continued, "We've hired talent for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to execute what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously detailed the company's practical approach to machine learning, categorizing its use into key functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes polishing mocap data, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to rapidly prototype simple versions of scenarios to experiment with concepts before expensive implementation.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Investigating how machine learning could in the future enhance emergent gameplay, particularly in creating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He clearly affirmed that key artistic areas — such as visual art — are not areas where the company is replacing human input. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact fields.

"We are not releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on reducing teams to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.