The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Implementation of Generative AI for New Divinity Game

The studio behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its upcoming project, sparking a wave of anticipation within the industry. However, recent comments from the studio's figurehead have brought nuance to the narrative, addressing the team's approach toward machine learning.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a latest message, Swen Vincke detailed that the developer is employing generative AI for particular preliminary purposes. These encompass enhancing pitch decks, creating initial concept art, and drafting placeholder text.

Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the final content in the game will be crafted exclusively by real artists. "Larian is developing everything ourselves," he stated.

Our studio is continuously growing our pool of concept artists and are currently putting together writing teams.

Since visual development is being particularly mentioned — we presently have over twenty visual developers and have job openings for more artists.

Everything we do is additive and aimed at enabling creatives to spend additional energy on the creative process.

Every AI system used well is a boost to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of employing this technology at first generated unease among some the fanbase. In response, Vincke provided additional elaboration on online platforms.

"We use machine learning to explore references, similar to we use search engines and physical media," he stated. "During the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then replace with original concept art."

He noted, "Our studio recruits talent for their unique talent, not for their willingness to replicate what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had earlier broken down the studio's practical approach to machine learning, defining its use into three main functions:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses refining animations, voice editing, and Larian-specific work like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype rough models of scenarios to validate concepts before expensive development.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Researching how machine learning could eventually facilitate new forms of gameplay, particularly in managing unforeseen permutations in a vast role-playing world.

He specifically noted that central narrative areas — such as music composition — are are in no way departments where the studio is cutting artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these precise fields.

"Larian is neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on trimming down staff to replace them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.