The Divinity Developer Explains Its Application of AI Tools for Upcoming Project
The team behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its next major project, generating significant excitement within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's lead designer have brought clarity to the narrative, touching on the team's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a new message, Larian's director explained that the company is employing AI technology for specific preliminary tasks. These encompass developing presentation materials, producing rough concept art, and writing temporary copy.
Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the final material in the game will be authored exclusively by human artists. "Larian is developing everything in-house," he affirmed.
Our studio is continuously increasing our team of writers and are actively assembling narrative groups.
Since concept art is being explicitly mentioned — we currently have twenty-three artistic staff and have job openings for more creatives.
All our efforts we do is additive and aimed at having people spend additional energy on making content.
Every AI system applied correctly is additive to a artist's process, not a replacement for their craft.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The revelation of AI usage initially provoked concern among portions of the community. In reaction, Vincke provided additional clarification on online platforms.
"We use AI tools to research ideas, similar to we use search engines and reference books," he stated. "In the initial ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then substitute with original illustrations."
He continued, "Larian brings on talent for their creative vision, not for their capacity to replicate what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had earlier outlined the team's targeted approach to machine learning, grouping its use into primary functions:
- Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like polishing mocap data, voice editing, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to quickly build basic models of gameplay ideas to test concepts ahead of complete development.
- Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could one day create new forms of gameplay, specifically in simulating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.
He specifically noted that core creative domains — like music composition — are are absolutely not fields where the company is replacing human involvement. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these exact roles.
"Our studio is neither launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not considering reducing teams to replace them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.
