The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Application of Machine Learning for Upcoming Divinity Game

The studio behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its next major project, generating immense hype within the industry. However, subsequent remarks from the company's lead designer have introduced a new dimension to the conversation, focusing on the team's approach toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent message, Larian's director outlined that the team is employing machine learning for particular ancillary tasks. These include fleshing out pitch decks, producing rough artistic references, and writing placeholder dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the shipping assets in the game will be crafted exclusively by actual creatives. "Our team is developing every line manually," he stated.

Larian is continuously growing our team of concept artists and are busily forming dedicated writer rooms.

Since this area is being specifically referenced — we currently have 23 visual developers and have roles to fill for further artists.

Each initiative we do is additive and focused on enabling creatives to spend additional energy on making content.

Any machine learning application implemented properly is supplementary to a creative team workflow, never a stand-in for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The admission of using AI initially sparked concern among a segment of the community. In response, Vincke offered further clarification on social media.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to explore references, similar to we use Google and art books," he wrote. "During the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then replace with hand-crafted artwork."

He noted, "Our studio recruits artists for their unique talent, not for their willingness to execute what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously broken down the studio's practical approach to this technology, grouping its use into key functions:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes polishing mocap data, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to rapidly prototype simple mock-ups of scenarios to test concepts ahead of full development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could eventually create new forms of gameplay, specifically in managing unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He specifically noted that core creative areas — including writing — are are in no way departments where the team is cutting human input. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these exact positions.

"Larian is not releasing a game with any AI components, nor considering trimming down creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.