The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Clarifies Its Application of Generative AI for New Project

The studio behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently unveiled its next major project, sparking significant anticipation within the gaming community. However, recent comments from the studio's figurehead have introduced nuance to the conversation, focusing on the developer's stance toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new statement, Larian's director detailed that the team is employing generative AI for particular preliminary tasks. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, generating early-stage concept art, and drafting temporary copy.

Importantly, Vincke made clear that the end material in the game will be created exclusively by real writers. "Our team is writing all the content ourselves," he affirmed.

Our studio is continuously expanding our roster of concept artists and are currently forming dedicated writer rooms.

As this area is being particularly referenced — we currently have over twenty concept artists and have job openings for further creatives.

Each initiative we do is incremental and focused on having people spend more time on actual creation.

Any ML tool applied correctly is a boost to a developer's workflow, not a replacement for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of using AI originally generated concern among some the community. In reaction, Vincke provided more detail on social media.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to gather inspiration, just like we use search engines and art books," he explained. "During the initial planning process we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then swap out with hand-crafted concept art."

He continued, "Our studio recruits talent for their creative vision, not for their willingness to follow what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously detailed the team's focused strategy to AI and ML, grouping its use into three main areas:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This encompasses polishing mocap data, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to speedily create simple models of scenarios to test concepts before complete development.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Exploring how AI could eventually facilitate innovative player agency, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He clearly stated that core creative disciplines — like music composition — are not fields where the studio is cutting artistic input. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these very roles.

"Our studio is not launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not planning on reducing creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.