Larian Studios Details Its Use of AI Tools for Next Project

The studio behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its new project, sparking a wave of hype within the player base. However, subsequent statements from the studio's co-founder have introduced nuance to the discussion, focusing on the studio's stance toward AI tools.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a latest message, Larian's director explained that the developer is employing generative AI for specific supporting functions. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage visual ideas, and creating draft text.

Importantly, Vincke made clear that the end material in the game will be authored exclusively by real creatives. "Our team is developing everything manually," he said.

We are continuously expanding our pool of storytellers and are currently forming writing teams.

As visual development is being particularly mentioned — we right now have 23 concept artists and have positions available for more artists.

All our efforts we do is additive and aimed at letting our team spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every AI system implemented properly is additive to a creative team process, not a substitute for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of employing this technology at first generated concern among some the fanbase. In response, Vincke offered further elaboration on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to gather inspiration, similar to we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "In the very early brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then substitute with authentic concept art."

He noted, "Larian brings on creatives for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to execute what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously detailed the team's practical strategy to machine learning, grouping its use into key functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes polishing mocap data, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to rapidly prototype basic models of scenarios to test concepts before full implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could one day facilitate new forms of reactivity, particularly in simulating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He specifically affirmed that key artistic disciplines — including visual art — are not fields where the studio is replacing human involvement. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these very positions.

"Larian is not shipping a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not considering reducing creatives to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.