The Divinity Developer Clarifies Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Upcoming Divinity Game

The studio behind acclaimed titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its upcoming project, sparking significant excitement within the gaming community. However, subsequent remarks from the studio's lead designer have introduced a new dimension to the narrative, addressing the developer's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a latest statement, the studio's founder explained that the team is utilizing generative AI for particular preliminary purposes. These involve enhancing PowerPoint slides, generating early-stage visual ideas, and drafting temporary copy.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the end material in the game will be created solely by actual artists. "Larian is creating everything ourselves," he affirmed.

Larian is actively growing our roster of writers and are currently assembling writing teams.

Since visual development is being specifically mentioned — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have job openings for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on having people spend more time on the creative process.

Any machine learning application used well is a boost to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of AI usage originally generated concern among a segment of the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke offered additional elaboration on social media.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to gather inspiration, in the same way we use search engines and art books," he explained. "During the very early ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then substitute with authentic artwork."

He added, "Larian brings on talent for their unique talent, not for their ability to execute what a algorithm proposes."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had previously broken down the studio's focused method to AI and ML, grouping its use into key pillars:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to rapidly prototype basic versions of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts before full development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how machine learning could in the future enhance new forms of reactivity, especially in simulating dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He clearly noted that key artistic areas — such as music composition — are are in no way areas where the studio is reducing artistic talent. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these exact fields.

"Our studio is not launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on trimming down teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.