Larian Studios Explains Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Next Project

The studio behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its upcoming project, sparking immense hype within the player base. However, follow-up remarks from the studio's lead designer have introduced nuance to the discussion, addressing the developer's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent statement, the studio's founder explained that the developer is using generative AI for certain preliminary purposes. These involve fleshing out pitch decks, generating initial visual ideas, and creating placeholder copy.

Notably, Vincke stressed that the shipping content in the game will be crafted solely by human artists. "We are developing all the content in-house," he stated.

Larian is actively growing our team of writers and are actively assembling narrative groups.

Since concept art is being explicitly referenced — we presently have over twenty concept artists and have roles to fill for additional talent.

Each initiative we do is additive and aimed at enabling creatives to spend greater focus on actual creation.

Any AI system used well is additive to a artist's process, not a replacement for their craft.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The news of using AI at first sparked backlash among a segment of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke provided further detail on public forums.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to gather inspiration, just like we use search engines and reference books," he wrote. "During the conceptual planning process we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then swap out with original concept art."

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

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had earlier outlined the company's targeted approach to machine learning, grouping its use into key pillars:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to quickly build simple models of gameplay ideas to validate concepts before expensive production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how machine learning could one day create innovative reactivity, specifically in creating player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.

He explicitly affirmed that key artistic domains — like writing — are are in no way areas where the company is reducing creative input. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact fields.

"We are not releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor looking at reducing staff to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.