The Divinity Developer Explains Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Next Project
The developer behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its next major project, sparking a wave of excitement within the industry. However, follow-up remarks from the studio's figurehead have added clarity to the conversation, addressing the developer's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a latest message, Swen Vincke detailed that the team is employing generative AI for certain supporting tasks. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage artistic references, and creating draft text.
Crucially, Vincke stressed that the shipping content in the game will be created solely by real writers. "Larian is writing everything ourselves," he affirmed.
We are constantly expanding our pool of concept artists and are currently forming dedicated writer rooms.
Since visual development is being particularly referenced — we currently have over twenty concept artists and have positions available for additional talent.
All our efforts we do is supplementary and designed to enabling creatives to spend additional energy on making content.
Any AI system implemented properly is a boost to a developer's routine, not a substitute for their talent.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The revelation of employing this technology initially generated backlash among portions of the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke issued more elaboration on online platforms.
"Our team utilizes these tools to research ideas, in the same way we use the internet and art books," he wrote. "During the conceptual planning process we use it as a basic framework for structure which we then swap out with authentic illustrations."
He noted, "Our studio recruits artists for their creative vision, not for their willingness to execute what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had previously detailed the studio's practical method to AI and ML, grouping its use into three main functions:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to speedily create basic versions of mechanics to validate concepts ahead of expensive development.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could one day create new forms of player agency, particularly in managing dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.
He explicitly noted that central narrative domains — like writing — are not fields where the team is cutting creative talent. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these exact fields.
"We are neither shipping a game with any AI components, nor planning on trimming down creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke summarized.
