The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Use of Machine Learning for New Divinity

The studio behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its new project, sparking immense excitement within the gaming community. However, recent remarks from the company's lead designer have introduced a new dimension to the discussion, touching on the developer's approach toward AI tools.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent message, Swen Vincke detailed that the team is utilizing AI technology for certain preliminary functions. These encompass enhancing pitch decks, creating early-stage visual ideas, and writing temporary copy.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the final content in the game will be created entirely by human writers. "We are developing all the content in-house," he stated.

Larian is constantly expanding our team of concept artists and are busily assembling writing teams.

Since this area is being specifically mentioned — we currently have over twenty concept artists and have positions available for further talent.

All our efforts we do is incremental and focused on enabling creatives to spend more time on actual creation.

Any AI system implemented properly is additive to a artist's workflow, never a stand-in for their skill.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The admission of employing this technology originally provoked unease among portions of the player base. In response, Vincke offered additional clarification on online platforms.

"At Larian, we employ AI tools to explore references, in the same way we use Google and physical media," he wrote. "During the initial planning process we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then swap out with hand-crafted artwork."

He added, "We've hired creatives for their unique talent, not for their ability to follow what a AI generates."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past detailed the company's focused strategy to AI and ML, categorizing its use into primary pillars:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes refining animations, audio processing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to rapidly prototype simple versions of mechanics to validate concepts prior to complete implementation.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Exploring how machine learning could in the future facilitate innovative gameplay, particularly in managing player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He specifically noted that central narrative areas — such as visual art — are not areas where the team is reducing artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise roles.

"We are not shipping a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not planning on cutting creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke concluded.