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

The developer behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its new project, generating a wave of hype within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the company's co-founder have introduced a new dimension to the discussion, addressing the team's philosophy toward AI tools.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent clarification, the studio's founder explained that the developer is employing machine learning for specific supporting tasks. These include enhancing pitch decks, producing initial artistic references, and writing temporary copy.

Notably, Vincke made clear that the end material in the game will be created entirely by human writers. "Our team is creating every line in-house," he stated.

Our studio is constantly increasing our roster of storytellers and are actively putting together dedicated writer rooms.

Since visual development is being specifically called out — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have job openings for more talent.

Each initiative we do is incremental and focused on letting our team spend more time on actual creation.

Every AI system applied correctly is a boost to a creative team workflow, never a stand-in for their talent.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The admission of AI usage originally sparked backlash among some the community. In response, Vincke provided more elaboration on social media.

"We use these tools to gather inspiration, similar to we use the internet and physical media," he explained. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then replace with hand-crafted concept art."

He continued, "Larian brings on talent for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to follow what a machine suggests."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had earlier outlined the studio's practical approach to this technology, grouping its use into key areas:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like polishing mocap data, dialogue cleanup, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to rapidly prototype simple models of gameplay ideas to validate concepts before complete production.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Exploring how machine learning could eventually enhance new forms of gameplay, especially in managing unforeseen permutations in a vast role-playing world.

He explicitly stated that key artistic areas — like writing — are not departments where the company is replacing artistic input. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these exact roles.

"Our studio is not launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not considering cutting teams to substitute them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.