The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Implementation of Machine Learning for New Divinity Game

The team behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently unveiled its next major project, creating a wave of anticipation within the player base. However, subsequent remarks from the studio's figurehead have brought clarity to the conversation, focusing on the studio's approach toward machine learning.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a latest clarification, Larian's director detailed that the developer is employing generative AI for specific preliminary functions. These encompass enhancing PowerPoint slides, generating rough concept art, and creating draft copy.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the final content in the game will be created exclusively by human writers. "Our team is writing all the content ourselves," he affirmed.

Our studio is actively increasing our roster of storytellers and are busily forming dedicated writer rooms.

Since this area is being particularly referenced — we currently have 23 concept artists and have positions available for additional creatives.

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

Any AI system applied correctly is additive to a artist's routine, not a substitute for their skill.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The news of AI usage originally sparked concern among some the community. In reaction, Vincke issued additional elaboration on public forums.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to gather inspiration, in the same way we use search engines and reference books," he explained. "In the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then swap out with original concept art."

He noted, "We've hired talent for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to execute what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously detailed the team's practical method to machine learning, defining its use into key areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to rapidly prototype simple versions of scenarios to validate concepts prior to complete implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how machine learning could one day create new forms of player agency, especially in managing player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.

He explicitly stated that central narrative disciplines — including music composition — are not areas where the studio is reducing creative talent. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact roles.

"We are not shipping a game with AI-generated content, nor considering cutting teams to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.