Larian Studios Details Its Use of Generative AI for Upcoming Project

The developer behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its next major project, creating immense anticipation within the gaming community. However, follow-up statements from the studio's lead designer have added clarity to the narrative, touching on the studio's approach toward machine learning.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a latest message, Swen Vincke explained that the developer is utilizing AI technology for specific supporting functions. These encompass fleshing out pitch decks, generating early-stage artistic references, and writing draft text.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the end material in the game will be created entirely by human artists. "Our team is developing everything in-house," he stated.

Larian is actively growing our team of writers and are currently forming writing teams.

Since visual development is being specifically referenced — we currently have 23 concept artists and have job openings for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on having people spend greater focus on making content.

Every machine learning application used well is additive to a creative team routine, never a stand-in for their skill.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The admission of AI usage originally sparked backlash among portions of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke provided further detail on social media.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to explore references, in the same way we use search engines and art books," he stated. "During the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then replace with original illustrations."

He continued, "Our studio recruits creatives for their unique talent, not for their willingness to replicate what a machine suggests."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had earlier detailed the company's targeted approach to this technology, defining its use into primary pillars:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using systems to rapidly prototype basic versions of mechanics to test concepts ahead of full development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how machine learning could in the future create emergent gameplay, specifically in simulating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He explicitly stated that core creative disciplines — such as visual art — are not fields where the studio is reducing human talent. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these exact positions.

"Larian is not launching a game with any AI components, nor looking at trimming down staff to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.