The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Application of Machine Learning for Next Divinity

The developer behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its next major project, creating immense anticipation within the industry. However, recent remarks from the studio's lead designer have introduced nuance to the discussion, addressing the developer's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent clarification, Larian's director explained that the developer is utilizing generative AI for certain supporting functions. These involve developing PowerPoint slides, producing rough artistic references, and drafting temporary text.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the shipping content in the game will be crafted exclusively by human creatives. "Larian is creating all the content manually," he affirmed.

Larian is constantly growing our roster of concept artists and are actively assembling writing teams.

Given that concept art is being explicitly referenced — we currently have twenty-three concept artists and have roles to fill for additional creatives.

Everything we do is supplementary and designed to letting our team spend more time on the creative process.

Every ML tool used well is additive to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of AI usage originally provoked backlash among portions of the community. In reply, Vincke offered further detail on online platforms.

"We use these tools to research ideas, in the same way we use search engines and physical media," he explained. "During the very early brainstorming phase 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 earlier detailed the company's focused method to this technology, categorizing its use into primary pillars:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to rapidly prototype basic versions of mechanics to validate concepts before complete implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how machine learning could one day create innovative reactivity, specifically in managing player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.

He specifically stated that core creative areas — including visual art — are not areas where the team is reducing artistic involvement. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these precise roles.

"Larian is neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not planning on cutting staff to substitute them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.