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

The developer behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its next major project, sparking immense hype within the player base. However, subsequent remarks from the company's co-founder have introduced nuance to the discussion, addressing the team's stance toward machine learning.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent message, Larian's director detailed that the company is employing machine learning for particular ancillary purposes. These include enhancing presentation materials, generating initial concept art, and writing temporary text.

Notably, Vincke stressed that the shipping content in the game will be crafted entirely by real artists. "Larian is developing every line ourselves," he stated.

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

Since visual development is being explicitly referenced — we currently have twenty-three visual developers and have job openings for further creatives.

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

Any machine learning application implemented properly is a boost to a artist's workflow, never a stand-in for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The admission of employing this technology originally generated unease among portions of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke provided further elaboration on social media.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to gather inspiration, in the same way we use search engines and physical media," he stated. "In the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for structure which we then replace with original concept art."

He continued, "Larian brings on talent for their creative vision, not for their ability to execute what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously broken down the company's targeted method to AI and ML, grouping its use into key pillars:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like refining animations, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using tools to rapidly prototype rough models of scenarios to test concepts ahead of complete production.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how AI could eventually create emergent reactivity, especially in creating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He specifically stated that central narrative domains — including writing — are not areas where the team is cutting artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these very roles.

"Larian is not releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on cutting creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.