The Divinity Developer Clarifies Its Application of Machine Learning for Next Divinity Game
The studio behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its new project, generating immense excitement within the industry. However, follow-up statements from the studio's lead designer have added nuance to the discussion, focusing on the developer's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a latest clarification, Larian's director outlined that the developer is employing AI technology for specific preliminary tasks. These encompass fleshing out PowerPoint slides, producing early-stage concept art, and writing placeholder text.
Crucially, Vincke stressed that the shipping content in the game will be crafted solely by real creatives. "Larian is creating all the content manually," he stated.
Larian is actively increasing our roster of concept artists and are actively putting together narrative groups.
Given that concept art is being explicitly called out — we currently have over twenty concept artists and have positions available for more talent.
Each initiative we do is additive and focused on letting our team spend additional energy on actual creation.
Any machine learning application implemented properly is a boost to a creative team workflow, not a replacement for their craft.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The news of employing this technology initially generated backlash among portions of the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke offered further clarification on online platforms.
"At Larian, we employ machine learning to gather inspiration, just like we use Google and physical media," he stated. "During the very early planning process we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then substitute with authentic artwork."
He added, "Larian brings on talent for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to follow what a AI generates."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had previously broken down the team's practical approach to this technology, defining its use into primary pillars:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to rapidly prototype rough versions of gameplay ideas to test concepts ahead of complete development.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how machine learning could eventually enhance innovative gameplay, particularly in simulating player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.
He explicitly noted that key artistic domains — such as writing — are not areas where the company is replacing artistic talent. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these exact positions.
"We are not launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on reducing teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.
