The Divinity Developer Clarifies Its Application of Generative AI for Next Divinity Game
The developer behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its new project, creating immense hype within the industry. However, follow-up statements from the studio's lead designer have introduced clarity to the narrative, focusing on the studio's approach toward AI tools.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a recent clarification, the studio's founder outlined that the team is employing generative AI for certain supporting purposes. These involve developing presentation materials, generating initial concept art, and drafting placeholder dialogue.
Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the end assets in the game will be created exclusively by real artists. "Our team is writing everything ourselves," he said.
Larian is constantly growing our pool of concept artists and are busily putting together dedicated writer rooms.
Given that concept art is being explicitly referenced — we currently have 23 artistic staff and have roles to fill for more artists.
Each initiative we do is additive and aimed at having people spend more time on the creative process.
Every AI system implemented properly is a boost to a creative team workflow, not a substitute for their skill.
Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent
The news of using AI initially generated concern among portions of the community. In reaction, Vincke offered further clarification on social media.
"Our team utilizes these tools to explore references, in the same way we use search engines and physical media," he explained. "In the very early planning process we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then replace with original artwork."
He added, "Larian brings on talent for their creative vision, not for their capacity to execute what a algorithm proposes."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had earlier outlined the team's targeted approach to machine learning, defining its use into key pillars:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to rapidly prototype basic versions of mechanics to validate concepts ahead of complete development.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how AI could in the future facilitate innovative reactivity, especially in simulating player-driven narratives in a detailed game universe.
He clearly stated that key artistic disciplines — such as visual art — are are absolutely not departments where the team is reducing creative involvement. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these very fields.
"Our studio is not launching a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not looking at cutting teams to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.
