Larian Studios Clarifies Its Implementation of AI Tools for New Divinity

The studio behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its new project, creating immense anticipation within the industry. However, follow-up statements from the studio's figurehead have introduced clarity to the narrative, addressing the developer's stance toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new clarification, the studio's founder detailed that the developer is employing machine learning for certain preliminary tasks. These include developing pitch decks, producing initial visual ideas, and drafting temporary copy.

Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the final content in the game will be authored exclusively by actual artists. "Our team is creating every line in-house," he stated.

We are actively growing our roster of writers and are busily assembling narrative groups.

Since concept art is being specifically mentioned — we presently have 23 concept artists and have positions available for further artists.

Everything we do is incremental and aimed at having people spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every ML tool applied correctly is additive to a artist's process, not a substitute for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of using AI originally provoked backlash among a segment of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke offered additional clarification on public forums.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, just like we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then swap out with hand-crafted concept art."

He noted, "Larian brings on artists for their creative vision, not for their ability to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously outlined the studio's targeted approach to this technology, defining its use into three main areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like polishing mocap data, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to quickly build basic versions of scenarios to experiment with concepts ahead of complete implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could one day facilitate emergent reactivity, especially in creating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He specifically noted that core creative disciplines — such as music composition — are not areas where the company is replacing creative input. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these very positions.

"Our studio is not releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on reducing teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.