The Divinity Developer Details Its Implementation of AI Tools for Next Divinity Game
The studio behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its next major project, generating a wave of hype within the gaming community. However, recent statements from the company's co-founder have brought clarity to the narrative, focusing on the studio's approach toward AI tools.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a recent clarification, the studio's founder explained that the team is employing AI technology for certain ancillary functions. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage artistic references, and writing draft dialogue.
Notably, Vincke stressed that the shipping assets in the game will be created exclusively by real artists. "We are developing all the content ourselves," he stated.
Larian is constantly growing our pool of writers and are actively putting together writing teams.
As visual development is being specifically called out — we right now have over twenty concept artists and have job openings for further artists.
All our efforts we do is incremental and focused on enabling creatives to spend more time on actual creation.
Any ML tool implemented properly is a boost to a creative team routine, not a substitute for their craft.
Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent
The news of employing this technology initially sparked concern among a segment of the player base. In response, Vincke offered more elaboration on social media.
"At Larian, we employ AI tools to research ideas, similar to we use Google and reference books," he stated. "In the initial ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then substitute with authentic artwork."
He continued, "Larian brings on talent for their creative vision, not for their capacity to follow what a AI generates."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had in the past outlined the team's practical strategy to machine learning, defining its use into primary pillars:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses refining animations, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like adjusting assets for various species.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype rough models of mechanics to test concepts before complete production.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Researching how machine learning could one day enhance innovative gameplay, particularly in simulating dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.
He clearly stated that core creative disciplines — like writing — are not departments where the studio is reducing human involvement. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these exact positions.
"Larian is not releasing a game with any AI components, nor looking at trimming down teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.
