The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Clarifies Its Application of AI Tools for New Project

The team behind hit role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its next major project, generating a wave of hype within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's lead designer have introduced a new dimension to the conversation, focusing on the studio's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new clarification, the studio's founder outlined that the company is utilizing AI technology for certain preliminary purposes. These include fleshing out pitch decks, creating initial visual ideas, and writing temporary text.

Crucially, Vincke stressed that the final assets in the game will be crafted entirely by actual creatives. "We are developing every line manually," he said.

Larian is actively increasing our roster of concept artists and are actively putting together dedicated writer rooms.

Since visual development is being specifically called out — we presently have twenty-three artistic staff and have job openings for further talent.

All our efforts we do is supplementary and aimed at letting our team spend greater focus on the creative process.

Any machine learning application implemented properly is additive to a developer's process, not a substitute for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of AI usage at first generated unease among some the community. In reply, Vincke provided additional elaboration on social media.

"Our team utilizes these tools to research ideas, in the same way we use the internet and physical media," he explained. "In the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then swap out with original illustrations."

He added, "Our studio recruits creatives for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to execute what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had previously broken down the team's practical strategy to machine learning, grouping its use into key areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like polishing mocap data, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to speedily create basic versions of gameplay ideas to validate concepts prior to full implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how machine learning could eventually facilitate emergent reactivity, specifically in creating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He clearly stated that core creative disciplines — such as music composition — are are in no way fields where the team is reducing artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these very roles.

"We are neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not looking at trimming down staff to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.