The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Application of AI Tools for Next Divinity Game

The studio behind acclaimed titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its upcoming project, sparking significant hype within the player base. However, recent comments from the company's lead designer have brought nuance to the conversation, addressing the team's approach toward AI tools.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a latest clarification, Larian's director explained that the team is utilizing generative AI for particular supporting functions. These include fleshing out PowerPoint slides, generating rough artistic references, and writing draft dialogue.

Notably, Vincke stressed that the final content in the game will be created entirely by actual writers. "Larian is writing every line ourselves," he affirmed.

Larian is actively growing our roster of storytellers and are actively forming dedicated writer rooms.

Given that visual development is being specifically mentioned — we currently have twenty-three concept artists and have roles to fill for further artists.

Everything we do is additive and focused on enabling creatives to spend additional energy on actual creation.

Every AI system used well is supplementary to a developer's workflow, not a substitute for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of AI usage initially generated concern among a segment of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke provided further elaboration on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to research ideas, similar to we use Google and physical media," he wrote. "During the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then replace with hand-crafted artwork."

He continued, "Larian brings on talent for their unique talent, not for their capacity to replicate what a algorithm proposes."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had in the past detailed the team's targeted method to AI and ML, grouping its use into primary functions:

  • Automation of Tedious Tasks: This encompasses motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
  • Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to rapidly prototype basic versions of scenarios to validate concepts prior to full development.
  • Long-Term Aspirations: Exploring how machine learning could eventually enhance emergent gameplay, specifically in creating unforeseen permutations in a vast role-playing world.

He clearly stated that central narrative disciplines — like music composition — are are in no way areas where the studio is cutting human input. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these precise roles.

"We are not shipping a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not looking at reducing teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.

Juan Kelley
Juan Kelley

Mikael Voss is a seasoned gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in online casino reviews and slot game strategy development.