The Divinity Developer Explains Its Implementation of Generative AI for New Divinity Game
The developer behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its new project, creating a wave of anticipation within the player base. However, recent remarks from the company's co-founder have introduced a new dimension to the discussion, addressing the team's stance toward AI tools.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a new message, the studio's founder detailed that the company is utilizing machine learning for particular preliminary functions. These encompass fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating early-stage artistic references, and drafting draft dialogue.
Crucially, Vincke made clear that the final assets in the game will be authored entirely by actual artists. "Our team is developing every line in-house," he said.
Larian is constantly growing our roster of concept artists and are actively assembling narrative groups.
As concept art is being specifically mentioned â we currently have 23 visual developers and have roles to fill for more talent.
Everything we do is incremental and aimed at letting our team spend additional energy on actual creation.
Every AI system applied correctly is supplementary to a creative team process, not a replacement for their craft.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The admission of using AI originally generated concern among some the fanbase. In response, Vincke provided further clarification on public forums.
"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, in the same way we use search engines and reference books," he explained. "In the initial planning process we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then replace with original illustrations."
He added, "We've hired creatives for their unique talent, not for their willingness to execute what a AI generates."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had earlier broken down the company's targeted method to machine learning, categorizing its use into three main areas:
- Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to speedily create simple models of gameplay ideas to test concepts ahead of full development.
- Experimental Frontiers: Researching how machine learning could one day enhance innovative gameplay, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.
He clearly stated that central narrative disciplines â such as music composition â are not departments where the team is replacing creative involvement. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise positions.
"Larian is neither launching a game with machine-made assets, nor looking at cutting creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.
