Larian Studios Clarifies Its Application of AI Tools for Next Divinity

The developer behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its next major project, creating a wave of excitement within the industry. However, follow-up statements from the company's co-founder have introduced clarity to the narrative, addressing the studio's stance toward machine learning.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent statement, the studio's founder outlined that the team is employing AI technology for specific supporting tasks. These include developing presentation materials, generating rough concept art, and writing temporary copy.

Importantly, Vincke stressed that the shipping material in the game will be authored exclusively by actual creatives. "Larian is developing all the content ourselves," he affirmed.

We are continuously growing our team of concept artists and are actively putting together narrative groups.

Since this area is being specifically called out — we right now have twenty-three visual developers and have positions available for more artists.

Everything we do is additive and focused on letting our team spend greater focus on the creative process.

Every AI system implemented properly is additive to a artist's process, never a stand-in for their craft.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of employing this technology originally provoked concern among portions of the community. In response, Vincke issued more elaboration on online platforms.

"We use machine learning to gather inspiration, similar to we use the internet and physical media," he wrote. "In the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then swap out with authentic illustrations."

He added, "We've hired talent for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to execute what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had earlier outlined the studio's focused strategy to this technology, defining its use into key pillars:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes polishing mocap data, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to rapidly prototype simple models of mechanics to validate concepts before expensive production.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Researching how machine learning could one day facilitate innovative player agency, especially in managing player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.

He explicitly noted that central narrative areas — such as writing — are not departments where the company is replacing artistic talent. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these very fields.

"Our studio is neither launching a game with machine-made assets, nor considering reducing teams to substitute them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.