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

The developer behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its next major project, generating a wave of hype within the gaming community. However, recent comments from the company's lead designer have introduced a new dimension to the conversation, addressing the team's approach toward AI tools.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent message, Larian's director detailed that the developer is employing machine learning for specific ancillary purposes. These involve fleshing out presentation materials, creating initial artistic references, and creating placeholder dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the final content in the game will be authored solely by real creatives. "Larian is creating every line manually," he said.

We are actively growing our roster of storytellers and are busily assembling narrative groups.

As visual development is being explicitly mentioned — we presently have 23 concept artists and have job openings for further creatives.

Everything we do is additive and focused on enabling creatives to spend more time on the creative process.

Any ML tool used well is supplementary to a creative team routine, not a substitute for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of AI usage initially generated unease among some the fanbase. In reply, Vincke offered more clarification on public forums.

"At Larian, we employ AI tools to explore references, similar to we use Google and physical media," he wrote. "During the initial ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then substitute with original illustrations."

He added, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to follow what a AI generates."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had earlier broken down the team's practical approach to this technology, grouping its use into three main pillars:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to quickly build rough models of scenarios to experiment with concepts before expensive development.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could in the future create new forms of gameplay, especially in creating dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He clearly affirmed that core creative disciplines — including writing — are are absolutely not areas where the company is cutting human talent. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these very fields.

"Larian is not launching a game with any AI components, nor considering reducing staff to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.