Larian Studios Explains Its Implementation of AI Tools for Next Divinity Game

The developer behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its new project, generating a wave of excitement within the industry. However, recent statements from the studio's co-founder have added clarity to the discussion, focusing on the studio's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent message, Larian's director outlined that the team is utilizing generative AI for specific preliminary tasks. These encompass developing presentation materials, generating initial concept art, and creating placeholder text.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be created exclusively by real creatives. "We are writing all the content manually," he stated.

We are actively increasing our pool of concept artists and are busily assembling dedicated writer rooms.

Since concept art is being explicitly called out — we presently have over twenty artistic staff and have job openings for additional talent.

All our efforts we do is additive and aimed at letting our team spend more time on actual creation.

Any machine learning application applied correctly is a boost to a artist's workflow, not a substitute for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of AI usage at first sparked backlash among a segment of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke offered more elaboration on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, just like we use search engines and physical media," he wrote. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then swap out with authentic concept art."

He added, "We've hired talent for their creative vision, not for their willingness to replicate what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had in the past detailed the team's targeted strategy to this technology, categorizing its use into primary functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to quickly build rough versions of gameplay ideas to validate concepts before complete production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could one day enhance new forms of player agency, specifically in creating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He specifically affirmed that key artistic domains — like visual art — are are absolutely not areas where the studio is reducing artistic involvement. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these precise fields.

"We are not launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not looking at trimming down creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.