The Divinity Developer Explains Its Application of Machine Learning for New Divinity

The studio behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its upcoming project, sparking immense hype within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's figurehead have brought clarity to the discussion, touching on the developer's approach toward AI tools.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new message, Larian's director explained that the developer is utilizing AI technology for certain supporting purposes. These involve enhancing pitch decks, generating early-stage concept art, and drafting draft dialogue.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the shipping assets in the game will be created exclusively by actual artists. "We are writing all the content ourselves," he said.

Larian is constantly growing our pool of writers and are currently putting together dedicated writer rooms.

Since visual development is being particularly mentioned — we presently have over twenty concept artists and have positions available for more talent.

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

Any AI system implemented properly is additive to a artist's routine, not a replacement for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of employing this technology originally provoked concern among some the player base. In response, Vincke issued further clarification on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, in the same way we use Google and physical media," he explained. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then replace with authentic illustrations."

He noted, "We've hired talent for their unique talent, not for their ability to replicate what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had earlier broken down the team's targeted strategy to this technology, grouping its use into primary pillars:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to speedily create simple versions of scenarios to test concepts ahead of expensive implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could eventually facilitate new forms of player agency, particularly in simulating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He explicitly noted that core creative areas — including music composition — are are in no way fields where the studio is reducing human input. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these exact roles.

"Our studio is not releasing a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not planning on cutting teams to substitute them with AI," Vincke summarized.