Larian Studios Details Its Implementation of AI Tools for New Project

The developer behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its new project, sparking a wave of excitement within the industry. However, subsequent remarks from the studio's co-founder have introduced nuance to the narrative, addressing the developer's philosophy toward AI tools.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a latest statement, Swen Vincke explained that the team is using AI technology for specific supporting tasks. These encompass developing PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage artistic references, and writing placeholder dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the shipping content in the game will be crafted entirely by real writers. "We are writing all the content in-house," he said.

Our studio is constantly increasing our pool of writers and are busily putting together writing teams.

Since concept art is being specifically called out — we right now have 23 concept artists and have positions available for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is incremental and focused on having people spend greater focus on the creative process.

Any ML tool used well is additive to a developer's routine, not a substitute for their talent.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The admission of employing this technology initially provoked unease among a segment of the player base. In response, Vincke issued further clarification on public forums.

"We use machine learning to gather inspiration, in the same way we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "During the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then swap out with hand-crafted artwork."

He continued, "Our studio recruits artists for their creative vision, not for their willingness to replicate what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier detailed the company's targeted strategy to machine learning, grouping its use into primary functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes polishing mocap data, dialogue cleanup, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using technology to speedily create basic models of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts prior to full development.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could eventually create innovative player agency, specifically in managing player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He clearly affirmed that key artistic areas — including music composition — are not fields where the team is cutting artistic involvement. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these very roles.

"We are neither releasing a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on reducing creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.