Larian Studios Clarifies Its Use of Machine Learning for Next Project

The developer behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its next major project, sparking immense hype within the gaming community. However, follow-up statements from the company's co-founder have added a new dimension to the narrative, addressing the team's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent message, Larian's director explained that the team is using machine learning for specific preliminary tasks. These include enhancing presentation materials, producing early-stage artistic references, and writing temporary dialogue.

Importantly, Vincke made clear that the end assets in the game will be crafted exclusively by real writers. "We are creating everything ourselves," he affirmed.

Larian is continuously increasing our pool of concept artists and are currently forming dedicated writer rooms.

Since concept art is being specifically called out — we presently have 23 visual developers and have positions available for further artists.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on enabling creatives to spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every machine learning application implemented properly is additive to a artist's workflow, never a stand-in for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of using AI at first provoked backlash among some the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke offered further clarification on public forums.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to explore references, just like we use Google and reference books," he stated. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then substitute with authentic concept art."

He added, "We've hired artists for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to replicate what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had in the past outlined the team's focused method to AI and ML, defining its use into primary areas:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to quickly build rough mock-ups of scenarios to experiment with concepts ahead of complete development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how AI could one day facilitate emergent player agency, specifically in managing player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He specifically affirmed that core creative disciplines — including writing — are are absolutely not fields where the company is cutting artistic input. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these very fields.

"Larian is neither releasing a game with any AI components, nor considering reducing teams to substitute them with AI," Vincke concluded.