The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Application of Generative AI for Next Project

The developer behind acclaimed titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its next major project, generating significant anticipation within the industry. However, recent remarks from the studio's figurehead have added a new dimension to the conversation, focusing on the studio's philosophy toward machine learning.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent message, Larian's director explained that the company is utilizing AI technology for particular supporting functions. These encompass enhancing PowerPoint slides, generating rough concept art, and drafting temporary dialogue.

Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the end material in the game will be crafted solely by human artists. "We are writing all the content ourselves," he stated.

Our studio is continuously growing our pool of writers and are currently putting together dedicated writer rooms.

As this area is being explicitly called out — we currently have 23 concept artists and have positions available for further talent.

All our efforts we do is supplementary and focused on having people spend additional energy on making content.

Any ML tool used well is additive to a creative team process, not a replacement for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of employing this technology initially provoked concern among portions of the fanbase. In reaction, Vincke offered more detail on social media.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to gather inspiration, similar to we use the internet and physical media," he stated. "During the initial planning process we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then replace with original illustrations."

He continued, "Our studio recruits creatives for their inherent skill, not for their ability to replicate what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had in the past outlined the company's targeted approach to this technology, defining its use into key functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to speedily create rough versions of scenarios to validate concepts prior to complete implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how AI could one day create emergent player agency, especially in managing dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He clearly stated that core creative disciplines — such as visual art — are are in no way fields where the company is replacing human involvement. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these very roles.

"Our studio is not releasing a game with AI-generated content, nor planning on cutting creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke summarized.