Larian Studios Explains Its Use of Machine Learning for Upcoming Project

The team behind acclaimed titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, creating significant hype within the industry. However, subsequent remarks from the studio's lead designer have added nuance to the narrative, touching on the team's approach toward machine learning.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent statement, the studio's founder detailed that the company is utilizing generative AI for certain ancillary functions. These involve developing presentation materials, creating initial visual ideas, and writing draft text.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the shipping content in the game will be authored solely by human writers. "Larian is developing every line ourselves," he affirmed.

Our studio is continuously growing our roster of concept artists and are busily assembling narrative groups.

Since concept art is being particularly referenced — we right now have 23 visual developers and have positions available for more creatives.

Everything we do is supplementary and aimed at having people spend additional energy on the creative process.

Any machine learning application applied correctly is a boost to a creative team process, not a substitute for their craft.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The admission of employing this technology initially generated concern among portions of the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke issued further clarification on online platforms.

"We use these tools to research ideas, similar to we use search engines and reference books," he wrote. "During the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then swap out with hand-crafted illustrations."

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

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier detailed the team's targeted approach to machine learning, defining its use into primary areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like refining animations, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to rapidly prototype rough models of mechanics to experiment with concepts prior to complete production.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how AI could one day enhance new forms of player agency, particularly in simulating dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.

He specifically noted that central narrative areas — including visual art — are not fields where the team is replacing human input. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these exact positions.

"We are not releasing a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not considering cutting staff to substitute them with AI," Vincke summarized.