The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Application of Machine Learning for Next Divinity
The developer behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its next major project, creating immense anticipation within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's lead designer have added clarity to the narrative, addressing the team's approach toward machine learning.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a latest clarification, Larian's director detailed that the developer is utilizing machine learning for particular preliminary tasks. These involve developing PowerPoint slides, generating initial concept art, and drafting placeholder dialogue.
Crucially, Vincke stressed that the final material in the game will be authored entirely by actual creatives. "Larian is creating every line ourselves," he affirmed.
We are actively increasing our roster of storytellers and are actively putting together narrative groups.
Since visual development is being explicitly called out — we currently have 23 artistic staff and have job openings for further talent.
Everything we do is additive and focused on having people spend additional energy on the creative process.
Any ML tool used well is additive to a artist's process, not a replacement for their talent.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The admission of AI usage at first sparked unease among some the community. In reaction, Vincke offered further clarification on online platforms.
"At Larian, we employ AI tools to explore references, just like we use Google and physical media," he explained. "During the conceptual planning process we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then swap out with hand-crafted concept art."
He continued, "Larian brings on creatives for their unique talent, not for their capacity to follow what a algorithm proposes."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had earlier outlined the team's focused strategy to this technology, categorizing its use into three main functions:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to speedily create simple mock-ups of gameplay ideas to validate concepts prior to expensive implementation.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could one day enhance innovative player agency, particularly in simulating unforeseen permutations in a vast role-playing world.
He specifically stated that central narrative domains — like visual art — are are absolutely not departments where the team is reducing creative talent. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these exact positions.
"We are not shipping a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not planning on reducing staff to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.
