Larian Studios Details Its Use of Generative AI for Next Project

The developer behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its upcoming project, creating significant excitement within the gaming community. However, recent statements from the company's co-founder have brought nuance to the discussion, focusing on the developer's approach toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new message, Larian's director outlined that the team is employing machine learning for particular ancillary purposes. These include enhancing PowerPoint slides, producing initial artistic references, and creating draft copy.

Importantly, Vincke stressed that the end assets in the game will be authored exclusively by real artists. "We are developing everything ourselves," he affirmed.

We are continuously expanding our pool of concept artists and are busily putting together narrative groups.

Since concept art is being specifically mentioned — we presently have 23 artistic staff and have positions available for more artists.

All our efforts we do is additive and designed to having people spend additional energy on making content.

Any ML tool applied correctly is additive to a developer's workflow, not a substitute for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of AI usage at first generated concern among some the community. In response, Vincke offered more clarification on public forums.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to gather inspiration, in the same way we use search engines and reference books," he wrote. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with original artwork."

He noted, "Our studio recruits talent for their creative vision, not for their capacity to follow what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had in the past broken down the team's targeted strategy to machine learning, grouping its use into key pillars:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like polishing mocap data, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to rapidly prototype simple models of mechanics to test concepts prior to full implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how machine learning could one day create new forms of reactivity, especially in creating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He clearly affirmed that core creative domains — such as visual art — are not areas where the company is cutting artistic input. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact positions.

"Larian is neither releasing a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not considering trimming down creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke concluded.