The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Use of Generative AI for New Divinity Game

The team behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its new project, creating significant hype within the industry. However, subsequent comments from the studio's figurehead have introduced nuance to the discussion, addressing the team's stance toward machine learning.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new message, the studio's founder detailed that the company is employing machine learning for certain ancillary purposes. These involve developing PowerPoint slides, producing initial concept art, and writing draft text.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the final assets in the game will be authored exclusively by actual writers. "Our team is writing everything manually," he affirmed.

Larian is continuously increasing our team of storytellers and are currently forming dedicated writer rooms.

As concept art is being particularly referenced — we presently have 23 visual developers and have job openings for more artists.

Everything we do is supplementary and designed to letting our team spend more time on the creative process.

Every AI system used well is a boost to a developer's process, never a stand-in for their talent.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The admission of employing this technology at first generated backlash among portions of the fanbase. In response, Vincke issued additional elaboration on social media.

"We use machine learning to gather inspiration, in the same way we use the internet and physical media," he explained. "In the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then substitute with authentic illustrations."

He added, "Larian brings on artists for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to execute what a AI generates."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past broken down the company's practical method to AI and ML, categorizing its use into three main pillars:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like refining animations, audio processing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype basic versions of mechanics to experiment with concepts before full implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Researching how machine learning could in the future create innovative player agency, especially in creating dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He explicitly noted that core creative disciplines — such as visual art — are not departments where the studio is replacing creative involvement. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these precise positions.

"Larian is neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, nor looking at reducing teams to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.