Larian Studios Clarifies Its Application of Machine Learning for Upcoming Project

The developer behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its next major project, creating immense excitement within the industry. However, subsequent statements from the company's lead designer have introduced nuance to the discussion, focusing on the studio's stance toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new clarification, Swen Vincke detailed that the team is utilizing generative AI for particular supporting tasks. These encompass enhancing PowerPoint slides, generating rough artistic references, and creating placeholder text.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the final material in the game will be crafted exclusively by human writers. "We are developing all the content ourselves," he stated.

We are actively expanding our team of writers and are currently forming writing teams.

Given that concept art is being particularly referenced — we right now have 23 artistic staff and have positions available for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and aimed at having people spend additional energy on making content.

Every ML tool used well is supplementary to a artist's workflow, not a replacement for their craft.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of AI usage originally sparked backlash among portions of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke issued additional clarification on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes these tools to research ideas, in the same way we use Google and reference books," he explained. "During the conceptual ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then swap out with authentic concept art."

He continued, "Larian brings on creatives for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to replicate what a AI generates."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past broken down the company's targeted method to machine learning, grouping its use into key areas:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like adjusting assets for various species.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using technology to quickly build simple models of scenarios to experiment with concepts ahead of expensive development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could eventually create new forms of reactivity, specifically in managing unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He specifically stated that key artistic areas — including writing — are are in no way areas where the company is cutting human talent. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these very roles.

"Our studio is neither releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on cutting creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.