The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Application of AI Tools for New Divinity

The team behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its new project, generating immense hype within the industry. However, recent statements from the studio's lead designer have added nuance to the discussion, touching on the developer's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent clarification, the studio's founder outlined that the team is employing AI technology for particular supporting purposes. These encompass fleshing out presentation materials, generating rough concept art, and creating placeholder copy.

Importantly, Vincke made clear that the shipping assets in the game will be created entirely by actual artists. "Larian is creating all the content ourselves," he stated.

We are actively increasing our roster of concept artists and are currently forming dedicated writer rooms.

As concept art is being explicitly mentioned — we right now have over twenty visual developers and have roles to fill for additional artists.

All our efforts we do is additive and aimed at letting our team spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every ML tool applied correctly is additive to a artist's process, not a replacement for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The admission of AI usage originally generated concern among portions of the player base. In response, Vincke issued additional elaboration on online platforms.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to gather inspiration, similar to we use search engines and physical media," he stated. "During the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then swap out with authentic concept art."

He noted, "Our studio recruits creatives for their creative vision, not for their ability to execute what a AI generates."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had previously outlined the company's focused strategy to this technology, categorizing its use into key functions:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes refining animations, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to rapidly prototype simple versions of mechanics to test concepts prior to full implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could eventually create innovative player agency, particularly in creating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He specifically noted that key artistic domains — such as music composition — are are in no way areas where the company is replacing artistic involvement. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these precise positions.

"Our studio is not shipping a game with any AI components, nor considering cutting staff to replace them with AI," Vincke summarized.