The Divinity Developer Explains Its Implementation of AI Tools for Next Divinity Game
The team behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its next major project, creating a wave of anticipation within the player base. However, follow-up remarks from the company's figurehead have added clarity to the conversation, focusing on the developer's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a latest message, Larian's director explained that the developer is employing AI technology for particular ancillary tasks. These encompass enhancing pitch decks, creating early-stage concept art, and drafting temporary dialogue.
Notably, Vincke stressed that the final material in the game will be created entirely by human artists. "We are creating all the content in-house," he said.
We are continuously increasing our pool of concept artists and are actively putting together dedicated writer rooms.
Given that this area is being specifically mentioned — we presently have twenty-three concept artists and have roles to fill for additional talent.
All our efforts we do is additive and aimed at enabling creatives to spend additional energy on making content.
Any ML tool applied correctly is supplementary to a artist's workflow, never a stand-in for their skill.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The news of using AI at first sparked concern among portions of the player base. In reaction, Vincke issued further detail on social media.
"At Larian, we employ these tools to gather inspiration, just like we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "In the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then replace with hand-crafted concept art."
He continued, "Larian brings on talent for their creative vision, not for their capacity to replicate what a algorithm proposes."
Key Areas of AI Integration
Vincke had earlier broken down the company's targeted approach to machine learning, defining its use into primary functions:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to quickly build rough models of scenarios to validate concepts before full development.
- Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could eventually enhance innovative gameplay, particularly in managing unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.
He clearly stated that key artistic areas — including music composition — are not fields where the company is reducing human talent. Conversely, Larian is actively hiring in these exact roles.
"Larian is neither releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor looking at reducing creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke summarized.
