Larian Studios Clarifies Its Application of Generative AI for Upcoming Project

The developer behind acclaimed titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its new project, sparking significant anticipation within the player base. However, subsequent statements from the studio's figurehead have introduced clarity to the discussion, focusing on the developer's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a latest clarification, Swen Vincke outlined that the developer is utilizing AI technology for particular supporting functions. These include enhancing PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage artistic references, and writing draft copy.

Notably, Vincke made clear that the end material in the game will be crafted exclusively by human artists. "Our team is developing all the content in-house," he said.

Our studio is continuously growing our pool of concept artists and are busily putting together narrative groups.

Since visual development is being explicitly called out — we right now have over twenty artistic staff and have positions available for further creatives.

All our efforts we do is supplementary and aimed at letting our team spend more time on making content.

Any machine learning application applied correctly is a boost to a artist's workflow, never a stand-in for their talent.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The revelation of employing this technology originally provoked unease among a segment of the community. In response, Vincke offered additional clarification on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to gather inspiration, in the same way we use the internet and art books," he wrote. "In the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then substitute with hand-crafted concept art."

He added, "We've hired talent for their creative vision, not for their ability to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier broken down the company's practical approach to AI and ML, grouping its use into key pillars:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like refining animations, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to speedily create simple mock-ups of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts before complete implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how machine learning could eventually enhance innovative gameplay, particularly in creating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He specifically stated that core creative disciplines — such as music composition — are are in no way areas where the studio is cutting creative talent. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these precise fields.

"We are neither launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not looking at reducing creatives to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.