Larian Studios Clarifies Its Use of Generative AI for New Project

The studio behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its next major project, generating significant anticipation within the player base. However, recent remarks from the studio's figurehead have introduced a new dimension to the conversation, touching on the studio's philosophy toward AI tools.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a latest clarification, Swen Vincke explained that the company is utilizing AI technology for specific supporting purposes. These involve developing presentation materials, creating initial artistic references, and creating draft dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the shipping content in the game will be created entirely by actual creatives. "We are creating every line manually," he said.

Larian is continuously expanding our team of writers and are actively forming dedicated writer rooms.

Since visual development is being specifically mentioned — we right now have 23 concept artists and have positions available for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is additive and aimed at letting our team spend additional energy on actual creation.

Every ML tool applied correctly is additive to a developer's process, not a substitute for their talent.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The news of using AI originally sparked unease among a segment of the player base. In reaction, Vincke issued more elaboration on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes these tools to explore references, just like we use Google and art books," he explained. "During the initial planning process we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then replace with authentic concept art."

He continued, "We've hired talent for their unique talent, not for their willingness to follow what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier outlined the studio's focused method to AI and ML, categorizing its use into three main pillars:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to quickly build basic mock-ups of mechanics to validate concepts prior to complete production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how AI could one day create emergent reactivity, particularly in managing dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He clearly affirmed that central narrative disciplines — like writing — are are in no way departments where the company is reducing artistic input. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these very positions.

"Larian is not shipping a game with any AI components, nor looking at cutting creatives to replace them with AI," Vincke summarized.