Larian Studios Clarifies Its Use of AI Tools for Upcoming Project

The developer behind acclaimed titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its next major project, generating a wave of anticipation within the gaming community. However, subsequent comments from the company's co-founder have brought clarity to the narrative, addressing the team's stance toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent statement, Swen Vincke explained that the developer is employing generative AI for certain ancillary functions. These include developing presentation materials, generating rough visual ideas, and drafting temporary text.

Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the shipping content in the game will be crafted exclusively by actual writers. "We are developing every line ourselves," he affirmed.

We are constantly expanding our roster of concept artists and are currently putting together writing teams.

Given that visual development is being particularly referenced — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have positions available for additional creatives.

All our efforts we do is supplementary and designed to letting our team spend greater focus on the creative process.

Any ML tool applied correctly is a boost to a developer's process, not a substitute for their skill.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The news of AI usage at first provoked concern among some the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke offered further elaboration on public forums.

"We use these tools to gather inspiration, just like we use Google and reference books," he stated. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for structure which we then swap out with hand-crafted artwork."

He noted, "Larian brings on talent for their unique talent, not for their ability to execute what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past outlined the company's focused approach to machine learning, categorizing its use into primary areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses polishing mocap data, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to speedily create basic mock-ups of mechanics to validate concepts ahead of expensive production.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how AI could eventually facilitate emergent player agency, particularly in simulating dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He clearly stated that key artistic areas — including visual art — are are absolutely not areas where the studio is replacing human talent. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise fields.

"Our studio is neither shipping a game with AI-generated content, nor considering reducing creatives to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.