The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Use of Generative AI for Upcoming Project
The team behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its next major project, sparking a wave of excitement within the industry. However, follow-up comments from the company's figurehead have added clarity to the narrative, addressing the studio's philosophy toward machine learning.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a recent message, Swen Vincke explained that the developer is utilizing machine learning for particular supporting functions. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, producing early-stage artistic references, and writing temporary dialogue.
Importantly, Vincke made clear that the end content in the game will be crafted entirely by real artists. "We are creating every line manually," he stated.
Larian is actively growing our team of concept artists and are currently assembling dedicated writer rooms.
Given that this area is being explicitly mentioned — we right now have 23 artistic staff and have job openings for additional talent.
Everything we do is additive and aimed at letting our team spend additional energy on the creative process.
Any ML tool applied correctly is additive to a artist's process, never a stand-in for their craft.
Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent
The revelation of AI usage at first provoked unease among some the community. In response, Vincke issued further clarification on social media.
"Our team utilizes these tools to explore references, in the same way we use the internet and reference books," he wrote. "During the conceptual planning process we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then swap out with original artwork."
He noted, "We've hired talent for their inherent skill, not for their ability to follow what a AI generates."
Key Areas of AI Integration
Vincke had in the past detailed the studio's targeted approach to machine learning, grouping its use into primary pillars:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
- Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to speedily create rough models of mechanics to validate concepts prior to complete production.
- Experimental Frontiers: Researching how machine learning could in the future create new forms of gameplay, specifically in managing player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.
He specifically stated that core creative areas — like music composition — are are in no way areas where the team is replacing human involvement. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these very roles.
"Our studio is not releasing a game with any AI components, nor considering trimming down creatives to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.
