The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Use of Machine Learning for Upcoming Divinity Game

The studio behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its new project, generating immense excitement within the industry. However, recent remarks from the studio's figurehead have introduced a new dimension to the discussion, touching on the studio's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new statement, Larian's director explained that the company is using AI technology for certain supporting purposes. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, generating early-stage artistic references, and drafting temporary copy.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the shipping content in the game will be crafted solely by actual writers. "Larian is writing all the content ourselves," he stated.

Larian is continuously growing our pool of concept artists and are busily assembling narrative groups.

As concept art is being specifically mentioned — we right now have over twenty artistic staff and have roles to fill for further creatives.

Each initiative we do is incremental and designed to enabling creatives to spend additional energy on making content.

Any ML tool used well is supplementary to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The admission of employing this technology initially sparked concern among a segment of the player base. In response, Vincke issued further clarification on social media.

"We use machine learning to explore references, in the same way we use Google and reference books," he stated. "In the very early brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for structure which we then replace with authentic illustrations."

He continued, "Larian brings on artists for their creative vision, not for their ability to replicate what a algorithm proposes."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had in the past detailed the studio's focused strategy to this technology, grouping its use into three main functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to rapidly prototype simple versions of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts before expensive production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how AI could in the future create emergent reactivity, specifically in creating dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He specifically stated that central narrative areas — including music composition — are are absolutely not fields where the company is cutting human involvement. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact roles.

"We are not releasing a game with AI-generated content, nor planning on trimming down teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.