Larian Studios Explains Its Application of Generative AI for New Project
The team behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its next major project, creating immense hype within the player base. However, subsequent statements from the company's figurehead have introduced clarity to the conversation, addressing the team's approach toward AI tools.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a new statement, the studio's founder explained that the team is using generative AI for particular supporting tasks. These involve fleshing out pitch decks, producing initial concept art, and drafting draft dialogue.
Notably, Vincke emphasized that the shipping content in the game will be crafted exclusively by human creatives. "Larian is writing every line in-house," he stated.
Larian is continuously increasing our roster of writers and are actively assembling narrative groups.
Since concept art is being explicitly mentioned — we presently have over twenty visual developers and have positions available for more artists.
Everything we do is additive and focused on having people spend additional energy on making content.
Any machine learning application implemented properly is additive to a artist's routine, never a stand-in for their craft.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The news of employing this technology originally generated backlash among a segment of the fanbase. In response, Vincke issued further clarification on social media.
"Our team utilizes machine learning to explore references, similar to we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "In the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then swap out with authentic concept art."
He continued, "Our studio recruits talent 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 focused strategy to machine learning, categorizing its use into key pillars:
- Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes refining animations, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to quickly build simple versions of scenarios to test concepts before full development.
- Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how AI could eventually facilitate new forms of gameplay, particularly in creating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.
He explicitly affirmed that core creative domains — including writing — are not fields where the studio is reducing artistic input. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these very roles.
"We are neither launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on cutting creatives to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.