The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Implementation of AI Tools for Next Project

The studio behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its next major project, generating immense hype within the gaming community. However, follow-up remarks from the studio's co-founder have added clarity to the conversation, touching on the developer's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new message, Larian's director explained that the company is utilizing machine learning for specific preliminary functions. These include developing PowerPoint slides, generating early-stage visual ideas, and creating draft copy.

Notably, Vincke stressed that the final content in the game will be authored entirely by actual writers. "Our team is creating everything ourselves," he said.

Larian is continuously expanding our roster of concept artists and are actively forming dedicated writer rooms.

Given that this area is being particularly referenced — we presently have over twenty visual developers and have job openings for more creatives.

Everything we do is supplementary and designed to having people spend more time on actual creation.

Every ML tool applied correctly is a boost to a creative team process, never a stand-in for their skill.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of AI usage at first provoked concern among some the fanbase. In reply, Vincke provided further detail on public forums.

"We use these tools to gather inspiration, similar to we use search engines and art books," he stated. "In the initial brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with authentic artwork."

He continued, "Our studio recruits talent for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously detailed the team's targeted method to this technology, categorizing its use into three main functions:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype basic mock-ups of gameplay ideas to test concepts prior to expensive production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how AI could in the future enhance innovative player agency, especially in simulating player-driven narratives in a detailed game universe.

He specifically affirmed that central narrative disciplines — including music composition — are are in no way areas where the team is cutting artistic talent. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these precise roles.

"Larian is not shipping a game with AI-generated content, nor planning on reducing staff to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.