The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Upcoming Divinity Game

The developer behind acclaimed role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its next major project, sparking a wave of anticipation within the player base. However, follow-up comments from the studio's figurehead have introduced nuance to the narrative, addressing the team's approach toward machine learning.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent message, Larian's director detailed that the team is using AI technology for specific supporting tasks. These involve developing pitch decks, producing initial concept art, and writing draft text.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the end content in the game will be crafted exclusively by real writers. "Larian is writing every line manually," he affirmed.

We are actively expanding our team of writers and are actively assembling dedicated writer rooms.

As visual development is being explicitly referenced — we presently have over twenty artistic staff and have positions available for additional talent.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on letting our team spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every AI system implemented properly is additive to a developer's routine, not a replacement for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of employing this technology initially generated concern among a segment of the fanbase. In response, Vincke offered additional detail on public forums.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to explore references, similar to we use search engines and reference books," he wrote. "During the very early brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with hand-crafted artwork."

He continued, "Larian brings on artists for their creative vision, not for their willingness to follow what a machine suggests."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had in the past detailed the studio's practical approach to machine learning, defining its use into primary areas:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to speedily create rough models of scenarios to test concepts prior to expensive implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how AI could in the future create innovative player agency, specifically in creating dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He explicitly affirmed that central narrative disciplines — such as writing — are not areas where the team is cutting creative talent. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these exact roles.

"Our studio is not shipping a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on cutting teams to substitute them with AI," Vincke concluded.