Larian Studios Details Its Use of Machine Learning for Next Project

The studio behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its new project, creating immense hype within the industry. However, follow-up remarks from the studio's lead designer have brought nuance to the conversation, focusing on the team's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent message, the studio's founder explained that the developer is utilizing AI technology for certain preliminary tasks. These encompass developing presentation materials, creating early-stage concept art, and creating temporary text.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the final content in the game will be created solely by human artists. "Our team is writing all the content manually," he said.

We are continuously expanding our team of writers and are actively putting together writing teams.

Given that this area is being specifically called out — we currently have 23 artistic staff and have job openings for more talent.

All our efforts we do is supplementary and designed to having people spend additional energy on the creative process.

Any ML tool implemented properly is additive to a creative team process, not a substitute for their craft.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The revelation of employing this technology originally provoked backlash among some the community. In reply, Vincke offered more detail on public forums.

"We use machine learning to explore references, just like we use the internet and reference books," he stated. "During the conceptual planning process we use it as a simple sketch for structure which we then swap out with authentic artwork."

He continued, "Our studio recruits artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to replicate what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had in the past detailed the studio's targeted strategy to AI and ML, categorizing its use into primary functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, voice editing, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to rapidly prototype simple versions of scenarios to validate concepts before complete implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could one day facilitate emergent player agency, specifically in managing unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He clearly noted that key artistic areas — such as music composition — are are in no way areas where the team is replacing creative talent. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these precise fields.

"Larian is not launching a game with any AI components, nor considering cutting teams to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.