The Divinity Developer Clarifies Its Implementation of AI Tools for Next Divinity Game

The studio behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its next major project, generating immense anticipation within the player base. However, recent comments from the studio's co-founder have brought clarity to the conversation, addressing the team's stance toward machine learning.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a new message, Larian's director outlined that the team is using machine learning for particular preliminary purposes. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, generating initial artistic references, and drafting draft text.

Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the shipping assets in the game will be authored exclusively by real creatives. "We are creating every line ourselves," he affirmed.

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

Given that this area is being specifically called out — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have roles to fill for further talent.

Each initiative we do is additive and focused on having people spend additional energy on making content.

Every AI system used well is additive to a artist's process, not a substitute for their skill.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The revelation of using AI initially provoked unease among portions of the community. In reply, Vincke provided more clarification on social media.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to research ideas, similar to we use search engines and art books," he stated. "In the conceptual planning process we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then swap out with authentic concept art."

He continued, "We've hired artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to follow what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier outlined the studio's targeted strategy to machine learning, grouping its use into primary pillars:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to speedily create basic mock-ups of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts prior to complete production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how machine learning could one day enhance new forms of player agency, especially in creating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He specifically affirmed that core creative domains — like writing — are are in no way fields where the studio is replacing artistic involvement. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these exact fields.

"Larian is neither shipping a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on trimming down teams to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.