The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Application of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity

The team behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its next major project, generating significant hype within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's co-founder have introduced a new dimension to the conversation, focusing on the developer's philosophy toward machine learning.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new message, the studio's founder outlined that the team is utilizing AI technology for specific preliminary tasks. These involve fleshing out presentation materials, generating early-stage artistic references, and drafting temporary text.

Notably, Vincke made clear that the end content in the game will be crafted entirely by human writers. "Our team is creating all the content manually," he affirmed.

Larian is constantly expanding our team of storytellers and are actively forming writing teams.

Given that concept art is being specifically called out — we presently have twenty-three concept artists and have positions available for more talent.

Each initiative we do is incremental and aimed at letting our team spend greater focus on the creative process.

Every machine learning application used well is supplementary to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of AI usage at first generated concern among a segment of the fanbase. In response, Vincke offered further detail on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes these tools to research ideas, just like we use Google and art books," he stated. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for structure which we then substitute with hand-crafted artwork."

He noted, "Larian brings on artists for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to replicate what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had previously outlined the company's focused approach to this technology, grouping its use into key functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses refining animations, voice editing, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to rapidly prototype basic versions of gameplay ideas to test concepts ahead of full production.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could one day enhance innovative player agency, especially in creating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He explicitly stated that core creative domains — like music composition — are are in no way areas where the team is reducing creative input. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these exact roles.

"Our studio is not releasing a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not planning on trimming down creatives to replace them with AI," Vincke concluded.