Larian Studios Explains Its Use of Machine Learning for Next Project
The team behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its upcoming project, generating significant excitement within the industry. However, subsequent comments from the company's lead designer have introduced nuance to the discussion, touching on the studio's approach toward AI tools.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a new statement, the studio's founder detailed that the company is employing AI technology for particular ancillary functions. These include fleshing out pitch decks, producing initial visual ideas, and creating placeholder copy.
Importantly, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be crafted exclusively by real creatives. "Larian is developing every line manually," he affirmed.
We are continuously growing our team of concept artists and are currently assembling dedicated writer rooms.
Since visual development is being specifically mentioned — we presently have over twenty visual developers and have job openings for more artists.
Everything we do is additive and aimed at letting our team spend more time on making content.
Every ML tool implemented properly is supplementary to a creative team workflow, never a stand-in for their talent.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The admission of AI usage at first sparked unease among portions of the community. In reply, Vincke provided further elaboration on public forums.
"Our team utilizes these tools to research ideas, just like we use Google and physical media," he explained. "In the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for structure which we then swap out with authentic artwork."
He added, "Our studio recruits talent for their creative vision, not for their capacity to replicate what a AI generates."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had earlier detailed the team's practical strategy to AI and ML, defining its use into three main pillars:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like polishing mocap data, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to quickly build simple versions of scenarios to experiment with concepts prior to full implementation.
- Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could eventually create innovative player agency, particularly in managing unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.
He explicitly noted that core creative disciplines — like writing — are are absolutely not departments where the studio is reducing artistic involvement. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these very fields.
"Our studio is not launching a game with any AI components, nor considering trimming down teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.
