Larian Studios Clarifies Its Implementation of Generative AI for New Project

The studio behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its new project, creating immense anticipation within the gaming community. However, recent comments from the company's figurehead have added a new dimension to the narrative, focusing on the developer's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new message, Swen Vincke explained that the team is employing generative AI for specific supporting purposes. These involve developing PowerPoint slides, creating initial artistic references, and creating placeholder dialogue.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the end assets in the game will be authored solely by real writers. "Our team is creating all the content ourselves," he said.

Larian is actively increasing our team of writers and are currently putting together writing teams.

As concept art is being particularly referenced — we right now have 23 concept artists and have job openings for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and designed to enabling creatives to spend more time on making content.

Every machine learning application implemented properly is supplementary to a developer's workflow, never a stand-in for their skill.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of employing this technology at first sparked concern among a segment of the player base. In reply, Vincke issued more clarification on social media.

"We use machine learning to research ideas, similar to we use search engines and physical media," he explained. "During the initial ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with authentic concept art."

He continued, "We've hired talent for their unique talent, not for their willingness to execute what a algorithm proposes."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had earlier outlined the company's focused approach to this technology, grouping its use into primary functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using systems to quickly build rough models of gameplay ideas to test concepts prior to full development.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could in the future create innovative gameplay, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He specifically stated that key artistic areas — such as music composition — are are in no way areas where the studio is reducing human involvement. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these very positions.

"Our studio is not releasing a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not looking at trimming down teams to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.