The Divinity Developer Details Its Implementation of Generative AI for Next Project

The developer behind acclaimed role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently unveiled its next major project, generating immense hype within the industry. However, subsequent comments from the studio's co-founder have introduced clarity to the discussion, focusing on the developer's approach toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new message, the studio's founder explained that the team is utilizing machine learning for specific supporting purposes. These encompass fleshing out pitch decks, generating rough concept art, and writing temporary text.

Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the final assets in the game will be crafted solely by human writers. "We are creating everything manually," he affirmed.

We are actively increasing our team of concept artists and are actively forming writing teams.

Since this area is being specifically mentioned — we presently have 23 concept artists and have positions available for further artists.

Everything we do is supplementary and designed to enabling creatives to spend additional energy on actual creation.

Every ML tool used well is a boost to a artist's process, never a stand-in for their craft.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The news of employing this technology initially sparked concern among some the fanbase. In reply, Vincke provided more detail on social media.

"We use machine learning to research ideas, in the same way we use the internet and physical media," he wrote. "In the conceptual planning process we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then replace with authentic illustrations."

He noted, "Larian brings on creatives for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had earlier detailed the company's focused approach to AI and ML, defining its use into three main functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses polishing mocap data, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to speedily create rough versions of scenarios to test concepts before complete development.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Exploring how machine learning could eventually create innovative reactivity, especially in simulating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He clearly affirmed that key artistic disciplines — including visual art — are not fields where the team is reducing artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these very positions.

"Our studio is neither launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not looking at reducing teams to replace them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.