The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Application of Machine Learning for Next Divinity Game
The studio behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, generating immense excitement within the player base. However, subsequent statements from the company's co-founder have added nuance to the conversation, focusing on the team's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.
Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs
In a latest statement, Swen Vincke explained that the company is employing generative AI for specific ancillary functions. These involve fleshing out pitch decks, creating initial visual ideas, and creating draft text.
Notably, Vincke stressed that the final assets in the game will be authored exclusively by real writers. "Our team is developing all the content manually," he stated.
We are continuously expanding our team of storytellers and are currently putting together writing teams.
Given that visual development is being specifically mentioned — we currently have twenty-three concept artists and have roles to fill for additional creatives.
Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on having people spend more time on actual creation.
Every ML tool applied correctly is a boost to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their skill.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The admission of AI usage at first provoked unease among a segment of the fanbase. In response, Vincke issued further elaboration on online platforms.
"We use AI tools to gather inspiration, in the same way we use search engines and reference books," he stated. "In the very early planning process we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then substitute with original artwork."
He continued, "We've hired artists for their unique talent, not for their capacity to follow what a algorithm proposes."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had earlier outlined the company's practical strategy to machine learning, categorizing its use into key functions:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes polishing mocap data, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to quickly build simple versions of scenarios to test concepts before full implementation.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could one day enhance innovative reactivity, especially in managing dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.
He clearly affirmed that key artistic areas — like music composition — are are in no way fields where the company is replacing artistic input. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact fields.
"Larian is neither releasing a game with AI-generated content, nor planning on cutting teams to swap them out with AI," Vincke summarized.
