Larian Studios Clarifies Its Application of Generative AI for Upcoming Project

The developer behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its upcoming project, sparking a wave of hype within the gaming community. However, recent remarks from the studio's lead designer have brought clarity to the discussion, addressing the studio's stance toward AI tools.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a latest message, the studio's founder outlined that the company is employing generative AI for particular ancillary tasks. These involve developing presentation materials, producing rough concept art, and creating placeholder text.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the end content in the game will be created solely by human artists. "Larian is developing all the content ourselves," he said.

We are constantly increasing our pool of concept artists and are busily assembling narrative groups.

Since this area is being particularly mentioned — we currently have twenty-three visual developers and have job openings for more talent.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on enabling creatives to spend greater focus on the creative process.

Every AI system applied correctly is supplementary to a artist's workflow, not a replacement for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The admission of employing this technology initially generated backlash among a segment of the fanbase. In reply, Vincke issued more elaboration on online platforms.

"We use machine learning to gather inspiration, just like we use Google and art books," he stated. "During the very early brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then substitute with original concept art."

He added, "Larian brings on artists for their creative vision, not for their willingness to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past detailed the studio's practical method to machine learning, defining its use into primary pillars:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes refining animations, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to rapidly prototype simple mock-ups of scenarios to experiment with concepts before complete implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could eventually facilitate innovative player agency, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He clearly noted that central narrative areas — such as visual art — are not departments where the company is cutting artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact roles.

"We are neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, nor looking at reducing teams to replace them with AI," Vincke summarized.