Larian Studios Details Its Implementation of Generative AI for Upcoming Divinity

The developer behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its next major project, generating a wave of anticipation within the industry. However, recent remarks from the company's lead designer have added clarity to the conversation, focusing on the studio's stance toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new clarification, Swen Vincke outlined that the company is employing AI technology for specific supporting tasks. These involve developing presentation materials, creating initial visual ideas, and writing draft text.

Notably, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be created exclusively by real artists. "Our team is writing everything in-house," he stated.

We are actively increasing our roster of storytellers and are actively assembling writing teams.

As this area is being specifically called out — we presently have over twenty concept artists and have job openings for additional talent.

Everything we do is additive and focused on enabling creatives to spend greater focus on making content.

Any AI system applied correctly is additive to a creative team routine, not a substitute for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of AI usage at first provoked concern among some the community. In reaction, Vincke provided additional detail on public forums.

"We use machine learning to explore references, in the same way we use search engines and art books," he stated. "During the very early ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then substitute with authentic concept art."

He noted, "Larian brings on creatives for their inherent skill, not for their ability to execute what a AI generates."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past broken down the team's practical method to AI and ML, categorizing its use into three main pillars:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses polishing mocap data, audio processing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using systems to speedily create simple mock-ups of mechanics to test concepts ahead of expensive development.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how machine learning could eventually enhance emergent player agency, particularly in creating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He explicitly affirmed that core creative disciplines — including writing — are not departments where the team is replacing human talent. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these exact fields.

"We are not launching a game with any AI components, nor looking at trimming down teams to replace them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.