Larian Studios Explains Its Use of Generative AI for New Project

The team behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its new project, generating a wave of excitement within the player base. However, recent remarks from the company's lead designer have introduced nuance to the conversation, touching on the developer's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new clarification, Swen Vincke outlined that the team is using machine learning for specific preliminary purposes. These include developing presentation materials, generating rough concept art, and drafting temporary copy.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the final material in the game will be created entirely by human artists. "We are developing every line in-house," he affirmed.

We are constantly expanding our team of storytellers and are busily forming narrative groups.

As this area is being explicitly referenced — we currently have 23 artistic staff and have positions available for additional artists.

Everything we do is supplementary and designed to letting our team spend additional energy on making content.

Every machine learning application implemented properly is a boost to a developer's workflow, not a replacement for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of AI usage initially sparked concern among portions of the player base. In reply, Vincke issued more detail on social media.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, just like we use the internet and reference books," he stated. "In the very early brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then swap out with hand-crafted artwork."

He added, "Larian brings on talent for their inherent skill, not for their ability to replicate what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had earlier outlined the team's targeted strategy to AI and ML, defining its use into primary areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses polishing mocap data, voice editing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to quickly build rough mock-ups of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts before complete development.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how machine learning could in the future facilitate new forms of reactivity, particularly in simulating dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.

He explicitly affirmed that central narrative disciplines — such as visual art — are not fields where the studio is replacing human input. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these exact roles.

"Larian is neither shipping a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not planning on trimming down teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.