Larian Studios Details Its Application of Machine Learning for New Project

The developer behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its next major project, sparking significant excitement within the gaming community. However, follow-up comments from the company's figurehead have brought nuance to the conversation, focusing on the team's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent message, Larian's director detailed that the developer is utilizing generative AI for certain supporting purposes. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, generating early-stage visual ideas, and drafting temporary text.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the end content in the game will be created entirely by human writers. "Larian is creating everything manually," he said.

Larian is constantly increasing our team of concept artists and are actively assembling dedicated writer rooms.

Since this area is being particularly called out — we presently have 23 concept artists and have roles to fill for more talent.

All our efforts we do is supplementary and designed to having people spend additional energy on making content.

Any AI system implemented properly is additive to a developer's routine, not a substitute for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of AI usage initially sparked backlash among some the player base. In response, Vincke issued further clarification on public forums.

"We use these tools to research ideas, just like we use Google and physical media," he stated. "During the very early ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then substitute with hand-crafted illustrations."

He noted, "Larian brings on talent for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier detailed the team's targeted method to AI and ML, categorizing its use into three main functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to quickly build rough mock-ups of scenarios to experiment with concepts before full development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how machine learning could in the future create emergent player agency, especially in managing dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He clearly noted that core creative areas — such as writing — are are absolutely not areas where the company is replacing creative input. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise positions.

"Larian is neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not planning on reducing staff to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.