The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Clarifies Its Use of Machine Learning for Upcoming Project
The team behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its upcoming project, sparking immense excitement within the player base. However, recent statements from the studio's co-founder have added nuance to the conversation, touching on the studio's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a new message, Larian's director detailed that the company is using AI technology for specific preliminary purposes. These encompass enhancing PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage visual ideas, and creating draft copy.
Crucially, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be authored exclusively by actual creatives. "We are creating everything ourselves," he said.
We are continuously growing our pool of storytellers and are actively forming dedicated writer rooms.
Since visual development is being explicitly called out — we presently have twenty-three visual developers and have job openings for more creatives.
Everything we do is additive and aimed at having people spend more time on actual creation.
Every AI system implemented properly is a boost to a artist's process, not a substitute for their talent.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The news of AI usage originally provoked concern among a segment of the fanbase. In response, Vincke provided additional clarification on public forums.
"We use these tools to research ideas, similar to we use the internet and physical media," he stated. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then replace with hand-crafted artwork."
He noted, "Larian brings on talent for their creative vision, not for their willingness to replicate what a AI generates."
Key Areas of AI Integration
Vincke had previously detailed the studio's practical method to machine learning, categorizing its use into primary pillars:
- Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to quickly build basic models of gameplay ideas to test concepts prior to expensive implementation.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Investigating how machine learning could in the future enhance new forms of gameplay, particularly in simulating dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.
He specifically noted that core creative areas — including writing — are are in no way areas where the company is replacing artistic input. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these exact positions.
"We are neither launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on cutting creatives to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.
