Larian Studios Explains Its Implementation of AI Tools for New Divinity Game

The studio behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its next major project, creating immense hype within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's co-founder have introduced a new dimension to the narrative, focusing on the team's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent clarification, the studio's founder explained that the company is using machine learning for certain preliminary functions. These involve enhancing presentation materials, creating initial artistic references, and writing temporary text.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the end content in the game will be created exclusively by real writers. "Our team is creating everything manually," he said.

Our studio is constantly increasing our pool of writers and are busily forming writing teams.

Given that this area is being specifically called out — we right now have over twenty visual developers and have job openings for additional talent.

Everything we do is supplementary and focused on letting our team spend more time on the creative process.

Any AI system used well is a boost to a developer's routine, not a replacement for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of employing this technology at first provoked unease among a segment of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke offered additional detail on social media.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to research ideas, similar to we use search engines and art books," he wrote. "During the initial planning process we use it as a basic framework for structure which we then swap out with authentic illustrations."

He added, "We've hired creatives for their unique talent, not for their capacity to execute what a AI generates."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past detailed the team's targeted approach to AI and ML, defining its use into three main functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes polishing mocap data, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to rapidly prototype rough models of gameplay ideas to test concepts ahead of complete development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how AI could eventually create emergent player agency, particularly in creating player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.

He clearly noted that key artistic domains — including writing — are are in no way areas where the company is replacing human talent. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise roles.

"Our studio is not shipping a game with AI-generated content, nor considering trimming down creatives to replace them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.