The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Clarifies Its Implementation of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity

The team behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, generating immense excitement within the gaming community. However, follow-up comments from the company's figurehead have introduced nuance to the narrative, focusing on the studio's philosophy toward machine learning.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent statement, Larian's director explained that the developer is employing AI technology for specific preliminary functions. These involve developing PowerPoint slides, producing early-stage visual ideas, and writing draft text.

Notably, Vincke stressed that the shipping material in the game will be authored entirely by real creatives. "Larian is developing everything manually," he said.

Our studio is actively growing our pool of concept artists and are currently putting together writing teams.

Given that visual development is being specifically referenced — we currently have over twenty artistic staff and have positions available for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is incremental and focused on enabling creatives to spend more time on the creative process.

Every machine learning application used well is additive to a artist's process, never a stand-in for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of using AI originally provoked unease among some the fanbase. In reply, Vincke offered additional clarification on public forums.

"We use these tools to gather inspiration, just like we use Google and art books," he explained. "In the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for structure which we then replace with original artwork."

He noted, "We've hired artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to follow what a AI generates."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past outlined the company's focused strategy to machine learning, grouping its use into primary areas:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses polishing mocap data, audio processing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using tools to rapidly prototype rough models of scenarios to experiment with concepts prior to complete development.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Investigating how machine learning could one day create innovative reactivity, specifically in managing player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He explicitly noted that core creative disciplines — including visual art — are not fields where the company is cutting human talent. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise roles.

"Our studio is neither launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on trimming down creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke summarized.