Larian Studios Clarifies Its Application of Machine Learning for Upcoming Project

The studio behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its upcoming project, generating significant excitement within the industry. However, recent statements from the company's figurehead have added a new dimension to the conversation, addressing the developer's philosophy toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a latest message, Larian's director detailed that the developer is employing AI technology for specific preliminary purposes. These involve enhancing pitch decks, creating initial artistic references, and writing temporary copy.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the shipping assets in the game will be created solely by real creatives. "Our team is writing every line manually," he affirmed.

Our studio is actively increasing our team of storytellers and are busily assembling dedicated writer rooms.

Since visual development is being explicitly mentioned — we right now have over twenty visual developers and have job openings for further talent.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on letting our team spend additional energy on making content.

Any ML tool implemented properly is a boost to a developer's process, never a stand-in for their skill.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of AI usage at first provoked concern among portions of the fanbase. In response, Vincke issued further clarification on public forums.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to explore references, in the same way we use the internet and physical media," he explained. "In the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then swap out with authentic illustrations."

He added, "Our studio recruits artists for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to execute what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

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

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses refining animations, voice editing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to speedily create rough mock-ups of scenarios to validate concepts ahead of expensive implementation.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could one day enhance innovative player agency, specifically in creating dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He explicitly affirmed that key artistic disciplines — such as writing — are not fields where the studio is reducing creative talent. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise roles.

"Our studio is neither shipping a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not looking at cutting creatives to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.