The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Application of AI Tools for Next Project
The developer behind acclaimed role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its upcoming project, creating a wave of anticipation within the player base. However, subsequent comments from the company's lead designer have introduced nuance to the discussion, touching on the team's stance toward AI tools.
Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs
In a new statement, the studio's founder explained that the company is employing generative AI for specific preliminary purposes. These involve developing presentation materials, creating initial concept art, and drafting temporary text.
Notably, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be created exclusively by real writers. "We are writing every line in-house," he said.
Our studio is actively expanding our pool of concept artists and are busily forming dedicated writer rooms.
Since this area is being explicitly called out — we presently have twenty-three artistic staff and have job openings for further creatives.
All our efforts we do is supplementary and designed to having people spend greater focus on making content.
Every ML tool applied correctly is supplementary to a artist's workflow, not a substitute for their craft.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The admission of employing this technology originally provoked backlash among a segment of the fanbase. In response, Vincke offered more elaboration on public forums.
"We use these tools to research ideas, just like we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "In the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for structure which we then replace with original artwork."
He continued, "Our studio recruits artists for their creative vision, not for their ability to replicate what a AI generates."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had previously broken down the team's focused approach to machine learning, defining its use into three main functions:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes polishing mocap data, voice editing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to speedily create simple versions of gameplay ideas to validate concepts before complete production.
- Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how AI could eventually enhance innovative player agency, especially in simulating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.
He explicitly stated that central narrative disciplines — such as visual art — are not fields where the studio is replacing artistic talent. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these precise roles.
"Larian is not launching a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not looking at reducing creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.