The Divinity Developer Details Its Application of Machine Learning for New Divinity

The developer behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its new project, generating immense anticipation within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's figurehead have brought clarity to the conversation, addressing the developer's philosophy toward machine learning.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a recent clarification, Swen Vincke explained that the developer is utilizing AI technology for specific ancillary tasks. These involve fleshing out presentation materials, creating rough artistic references, and writing draft dialogue.

Importantly, Vincke made clear that the end material in the game will be crafted entirely by human creatives. "Larian is writing everything ourselves," he said.

Our studio is constantly growing our roster of concept artists and are busily forming dedicated writer rooms.

As visual development is being explicitly referenced — we currently have twenty-three visual developers and have positions available for additional creatives.

All our efforts we do is incremental and designed to enabling creatives to spend more time on making content.

Any AI system implemented properly is a boost to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their craft.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The revelation of AI usage initially generated unease among portions of the fanbase. In response, Vincke provided further elaboration on public forums.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to gather inspiration, in the same way we use search engines and art books," he wrote. "In the very early planning process we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then swap out with authentic illustrations."

He added, "We've hired creatives for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to replicate what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had previously outlined the studio's targeted strategy to AI and ML, defining its use into three main functions:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes refining animations, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like retargeting animations.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to rapidly prototype basic models of gameplay ideas to test concepts prior to full production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how AI could eventually facilitate emergent gameplay, especially in creating dynamic reactions in a complex RPG.

He clearly stated that central narrative disciplines — including visual art — are not departments where the studio is replacing artistic involvement. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these precise roles.

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