The Divinity Developer Clarifies Its Implementation of AI Tools for New Divinity

The team behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its next major project, generating significant hype within the player base. However, subsequent remarks from the company's co-founder have added clarity to the conversation, addressing the studio's stance toward AI tools.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent clarification, Larian's director explained that the team is employing AI technology for certain supporting purposes. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating initial artistic references, and creating draft text.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the final assets in the game will be created entirely by actual creatives. "We are writing everything in-house," he stated.

Larian is continuously increasing our roster of writers and are currently assembling dedicated writer rooms.

Given that this area is being specifically called out — we presently have 23 concept artists and have positions available for further creatives.

Each initiative we do is additive and designed to having people spend more time on making content.

Every AI system used well is additive to a creative team workflow, not a replacement for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of using AI originally sparked unease among a segment of the fanbase. In response, Vincke provided further elaboration on social media.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to research ideas, just like we use search engines and art books," he stated. "During the very early planning process we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then replace with hand-crafted artwork."

He added, "Our studio recruits artists for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to replicate what a algorithm proposes."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously detailed the company's practical approach to AI and ML, grouping its use into three main functions:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to quickly build simple mock-ups of mechanics to validate concepts before complete production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how machine learning could one day create innovative reactivity, particularly in managing unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He specifically affirmed that central narrative disciplines — including visual art — are are absolutely not departments where the company is reducing human input. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact positions.

"We are neither releasing a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not looking at trimming down creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.