Larian Studios Details Its Application of Generative AI for Next Divinity
The developer behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its new project, sparking a wave of excitement within the industry. However, follow-up statements from the studio's co-founder have brought a new dimension to the narrative, focusing on the studio's approach toward AI tools.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a new message, Swen Vincke explained that the developer is employing generative AI for particular preliminary functions. These encompass developing presentation materials, creating rough artistic references, and creating temporary dialogue.
Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the final assets in the game will be crafted exclusively by actual writers. "Larian is developing all the content manually," he said.
Our studio is constantly expanding our pool of storytellers and are currently putting together narrative groups.
Given that this area is being specifically referenced — we presently have 23 concept artists and have positions available for further artists.
All our efforts we do is incremental and designed to having people spend additional energy on actual creation.
Every ML tool implemented properly is additive to a creative team routine, not a replacement for their skill.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The revelation of using AI initially sparked unease among a segment of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke offered additional elaboration on social media.
"Our team utilizes these tools to research ideas, similar to we use Google and art books," he wrote. "In the initial planning process we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then substitute with hand-crafted artwork."
He added, "Larian brings on talent for their unique talent, not for their willingness to replicate what a AI generates."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had in the past outlined the team's targeted approach to machine learning, grouping its use into primary pillars:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like refining animations, voice editing, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
- Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using technology to rapidly prototype basic models of scenarios to test concepts before full production.
- Experimental Frontiers: Researching how machine learning could eventually create emergent player agency, specifically in creating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.
He specifically noted that key artistic domains — such as visual art — are are in no way fields where the company is reducing artistic involvement. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these precise fields.
"We are not releasing a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not considering trimming down teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.