Larian Studios Explains Its Implementation of AI Tools for Upcoming Project
The team behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its next major project, sparking a wave of hype within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the company's figurehead have added a new dimension to the narrative, focusing on the studio's approach toward machine learning.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a latest statement, the studio's founder outlined that the team is employing AI technology for specific preliminary tasks. These include fleshing out pitch decks, creating rough concept art, and creating temporary text.
Notably, Vincke stressed that the shipping content in the game will be authored entirely by human writers. "Larian is writing everything ourselves," he said.
Larian is actively increasing our team of concept artists and are currently forming writing teams.
Since concept art is being explicitly mentioned — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have positions available for further talent.
Each initiative we do is incremental and focused on having people spend more time on actual creation.
Any ML tool used well is a boost to a creative team workflow, not a substitute for their skill.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The news of employing this technology at first provoked concern among portions of the community. In reply, Vincke provided more elaboration on online platforms.
"At Larian, we employ AI tools to gather inspiration, similar to we use search engines and reference books," he wrote. "In the initial planning process we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with authentic illustrations."
He continued, "Our studio recruits artists for their creative vision, not for their capacity to execute what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had previously detailed the studio's focused strategy to AI and ML, categorizing its use into primary areas:
- Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes refining animations, voice editing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to quickly build basic mock-ups of mechanics to test concepts ahead of full production.
- Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how machine learning could in the future facilitate emergent reactivity, specifically in creating dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.
He specifically noted that key artistic domains — including music composition — are not departments where the studio is replacing creative input. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact roles.
"Our studio is neither releasing a game with AI-generated content, nor planning on trimming down staff to substitute them with AI," Vincke concluded.
