The Divinity Developer Explains Its Application of Machine Learning for Upcoming Divinity Game

The studio behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its upcoming project, generating a wave of excitement within the gaming community. However, recent comments from the studio's figurehead have brought clarity to the conversation, addressing the studio's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new message, Swen Vincke explained that the developer is employing generative AI for specific ancillary tasks. These involve enhancing presentation materials, generating initial visual ideas, and writing temporary copy.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the final assets in the game will be authored solely by actual artists. "Our team is developing all the content manually," he stated.

Our studio is continuously increasing our team of writers and are currently forming narrative groups.

Since this area is being explicitly mentioned — we presently have 23 artistic staff and have job openings for more artists.

Everything we do is supplementary and designed to enabling creatives to spend more time on actual creation.

Every AI system applied correctly is additive to a creative team workflow, never a stand-in for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of using AI initially provoked backlash among portions of the player base. In reaction, Vincke offered further elaboration on social media.

"At Larian, we employ these tools to explore references, similar to we use Google and art books," he explained. "In the conceptual planning process we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then replace with original concept art."

He continued, "We've hired talent for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to execute what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously broken down the team's focused method to machine learning, grouping its use into primary areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using systems to rapidly prototype simple versions of scenarios to test concepts ahead of full development.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could in the future enhance innovative player agency, especially in simulating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He specifically stated that core creative disciplines — such as writing — are not areas where the studio is cutting human talent. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these very positions.

"Our studio is neither releasing a game with machine-made assets, nor looking at cutting creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke summarized.