The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Use of Machine Learning for Next Divinity Game

The developer behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its upcoming project, sparking significant anticipation within the player base. However, recent comments from the studio's figurehead have brought a new dimension to the conversation, addressing the team's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a new message, Larian's director explained that the team is utilizing generative AI for specific preliminary functions. These include fleshing out pitch decks, creating rough concept art, and creating draft copy.

Importantly, Vincke made clear that the end material in the game will be created exclusively by human artists. "Larian is writing everything manually," he affirmed.

Larian is actively expanding our team of concept artists and are currently forming writing teams.

Given that visual development is being specifically referenced — we currently have over twenty artistic staff and have positions available for further talent.

All our efforts we do is additive and focused on enabling creatives to spend more time on actual creation.

Every AI system implemented properly is a boost to a developer's process, not a substitute for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of AI usage at first provoked backlash among portions of the player base. In response, Vincke issued further elaboration on online platforms.

"We use machine learning to explore references, just like we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with hand-crafted artwork."

He added, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to replicate what a algorithm proposes."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had in the past detailed the team's practical strategy to machine learning, grouping its use into primary functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to quickly build simple versions of mechanics to validate concepts before full development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how AI could eventually create new forms of gameplay, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.

He specifically affirmed that core creative areas — including music composition — are not fields where the studio is reducing creative input. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these very fields.

"We are not releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor looking at trimming down teams to swap them out with AI," Vincke stated definitively.