Larian Studios Details Its Use of Machine Learning for Next Project

The team behind acclaimed role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its new project, generating significant anticipation within the player base. However, recent statements from the studio's lead designer have brought nuance to the narrative, touching on the team's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new statement, Larian's director outlined that the company is utilizing machine learning for specific preliminary purposes. These encompass developing pitch decks, producing initial concept art, and creating draft dialogue.

Importantly, Vincke stressed that the end content in the game will be authored solely by actual writers. "We are writing all the content manually," he said.

Larian is continuously increasing our team of concept artists and are busily assembling dedicated writer rooms.

Since concept art is being explicitly referenced — we right now have 23 concept artists and have roles to fill for further talent.

All our efforts we do is additive and designed to having people spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every machine learning application implemented properly is supplementary to a creative team workflow, never a stand-in for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of AI usage initially generated unease among portions of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke offered more clarification on social media.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to research ideas, just like we use search engines and art books," he wrote. "During the very early brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for structure which we then swap out with hand-crafted artwork."

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

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had previously detailed the company's targeted method to AI and ML, defining its use into primary pillars:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This encompasses polishing mocap data, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using technology to rapidly prototype simple mock-ups of gameplay ideas to test concepts prior to expensive implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how AI could one day create innovative player agency, particularly in simulating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He explicitly noted that core creative disciplines — like visual art — are not fields where the team is cutting creative involvement. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these precise fields.

"Larian is not launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not considering reducing creatives to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.