The Divinity Developer Explains Its Use of Machine Learning for New Divinity Game

The studio behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, sparking immense hype within the industry. However, recent comments from the studio's figurehead have introduced nuance to the narrative, addressing the studio's stance toward AI tools.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a new statement, Swen Vincke explained that the developer is using generative AI for specific ancillary functions. These involve enhancing PowerPoint slides, generating rough artistic references, and writing draft copy.

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

Larian is actively increasing our team of writers and are currently putting together writing teams.

Given that concept art is being specifically called out — we presently have 23 concept artists and have job openings for more creatives.

Everything we do is additive and focused on having people spend more time on making content.

Any ML tool applied correctly is a boost to a artist's routine, never a stand-in for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The admission of AI usage initially provoked backlash among a segment of the community. In response, Vincke issued more elaboration on public forums.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to explore references, similar to we use Google and art books," he explained. "During the very early ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then replace with authentic artwork."

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

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had in the past detailed the team's focused strategy to AI and ML, grouping its use into primary functions:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes refining animations, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to speedily create rough mock-ups of scenarios to validate concepts ahead of complete production.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Investigating how AI could one day enhance emergent player agency, especially in simulating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He clearly stated that central narrative domains — such as writing — are are in no way departments where the company is cutting human talent. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these very positions.

"Larian is not shipping a game with AI-generated content, nor looking at cutting staff to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.